SAN DIEGO -- Nineteen firefighters returned to San Diego Monday after spending two weeks fighting fires in Northern California.

A strike team with five engines fought fires in Mariposa County and then the Gap Fire in Santa Barbara.

The firefighters fought the fires in steep, rugged terrain with big timber -- very different conditions from those found in San Diego.

While they're glad to be back home, the strike team was happy to help out up North, NBC 7/39 reported.

"We have been providing mutual aid resources for our state for many, many years," Chief Andy Parr of the Lakeside Fire Department said. "But after our recent fires in 2003 and 2007, a lot of those folks came to help us, and we're glad to return the favor."

If the need for help arises again, he knows firefighters across the state are always willing to lend a hand.