Congressman David Dreier visits mudslide risk area

Emergency officials have lifted most evacuation orders for Southland burn areas. But in case the threatened mudslides happen, a local Congressman wants to reassure his constituents that federal help is on the way.

Republican David Dreier wants to see for himself what officials have done to mitigate potential mudslide damage. He also wants to make federal resources available to city officials in the region.

Dreier says his mission is to "encourage the U.S. Forest Service to assist the state as they proceed with their determination as to whether or not this should in fact be designated as a disaster. Which it is not at this point."

If Governor Schwarzenegger does declare a disaster, the state then asks Washington to do the same. Dreier says a federal declaration frees up money, equipment and access to federal agencies for assistance with recovery.