Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who was in Los Angeles this morning to announce a $75-million green-jobs training program, said California lost two heroes when a pair of firefighters died while battling a wildfire in the Angeles National Forest.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families and their friends. Every Californian is grateful for their bravery and for their great service,’’ Schwarzenegger said, praising the scores of other firefighters still in the San Gabriel Mountains. “Of course, they are my great heroes."

With eight major fires burning across the state, Schwarzenegger said he had declared a state of emergency in four counties, including Los Angeles County. He urged residents to heed all evacuation orders, saying those who decide to stay in their homes are putting their lives at risk.