Hi. Every state has safety requirements in mutual aid: red or blue. They ensure all engines are equipped for emergencies so firefighters don't get killed. It isn't a surprise to folks who know how this is done. Yours is a misleading statement; CA didn't require it anymore than any state requires it. Unless you are suggesting to get rid of mutual aid agreements which actually exist to help in emergencies, then not sure what's so upsetting.  In a disaster, time is of the essence but protecting first responders trumps all.