The experience four Gig Harbor firefighters gained from helping battle California’s forest fires will pay off locally, officials said. “When we send them back out they will have invaluable experience that they would not otherwise be able to get,” said Fire Prevention Division Chief Eric Waters. “That will improve their safety and efficiency when they’re out on the fire line.” The four were sent Nov. 10 to combat the Woolsey fire in Ventura and Camarillo counties. They were among 20 Washington firefighters sent to California in response to a request by the governor’s office. The Gig Harbor firefighters returned Nov. 17 after California officials were able to get more local resources on the scene and no longer needed outside help, Waters said.