DATE=10/28/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=CALIFORNIA FIRES (L)

NUMBER=2-309148

BYLINE=MIKE O'SULLIVAN

DATELINE=LOS ANGELES

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: California wildfires have scorched more than 200-thousand hectares and killed at least 15 people. More than 11 hundred homes have been lost to the blazes. Mike O'Sullivan reports from Los Angeles, Californians are looking to Washington for help in rebuilding.

TEXT: At least 10 major fires are raging in the state, blackening the landscape and darkening the skies over huge areas. Monday, President Bush declared a "major disaster" in California, freeing federal emergency funds for four California counties.

In a news conference Tuesday, Mr. Bush expressed concern for the victims, and promised help for those who are fighting the fires.

/// BUSH ACT ///

The federal government is working closely with the state government to provide resources necessary to help the brave firefighters do their duty.

/// END ACT ///

California governor-elect Arnold Schwarzenegger planned to travel to Washington to urge the White House to send the aid quickly.

Monday, the actor-turned-politician toured fire-stricken Simi Valley, northwest of Los Angeles.

/// SCHWARZENEGGER ACT ///

I think that the key thing is now to get the federal money and to help those people to rebuild their homes and their businesses, and get their lives back in shape.

/// END ACT ///

The governor-elect praised President Bush for authorizing the aid, and also praised outgoing governor Gray Davis, who will leave office next month. The governor's staff has been briefing Mr. Schwarzenegger daily on the wildfires.

The heaviest loss of life and property has been near San Diego. As Mr. Davis toured the region, he said it was like a war zone.

/// DAVIS ACT ///

My heart goes out to every family that lost a home. Our highest priority is, one, to put the fires out throughout California, and two, to help put people's lives back in order.

/// END ACT ///

Firefighters are hoping that cooler weather that is forecast for later this week will help them make progress against the blazes. (SIGNED)

NEB/MOS/RAE/RH