The fires were caused to be started as a result of arson, and there are still fires that are not completely burned out. The military sent in the National Guard troops to assist local firefighters with the flames, as they were overwhelmed and fatigued with around the clock work. There were also many other local people that took on to the flames in order to battle them. President Bush sent additional assistance by awarding millions of funds for the area, and declaring parts of California as a natural disaster area.
FEMA was also on hand to assist with the wildfires. They worked closely with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who many are now giving praise to for the frequent updates of the fires. FEMA and Gov. Schwarzenegger both took on to the various outlets, and held numerous conferences about the fires. They assisted National Guard troops with the evacuations, and accessed the areas with President Bush.
Though it all, the Federal Emergency Management Association has been there throughout the entire time, giving aid to those that truly needed it. FEMA was also present during Hurricane Katrina, the worst hurricane to ever hit the American shores. FEMA is active in assisting those that have been disheveled and fallen through the cracks of poverty from natural disasters. They are there to assist those that are in need, and will get them back on their feet in no time.