February 2026

2025 Achievements and 2026 Expectations with Chief Tyler

In the latest episode of the Five Points podcast, Chief Joe Tyler and Chief Deputy Director Anale Burlew reflect on a few 2025 achievements - from joinCALFIRE.com to the new Fire Innovation Unit to the adoption of maternity uniforms. We remember Fire Apparatus Engineering Danny Cook and the importance of Employee Support Services and the role of the Honor Guard during times of celebration and sorrow. Plus, we look ahead to the 2026 budget and where we're heading in the upcoming year. All that and so much more.

Conversation with the State Fire Marshal: Why Fire Prevention and Community Risk Reduction Matters

In this episode, we sit down with California State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant to explore why fire prevention and community risk reduction truly matter - not just in wildfire-prone regions, but in every community. We’ll discuss the critical role of the Office of the State Fire Marshal, the stakes of prioritizing prevention, and how California is leading the way through policy, technology, and collaboration.

From building codes and defensible space to public education and equity, learn how prevention saves lives and builds resilience. Click the links below to subscribe, listen and watch.

Advancing Forest Health Research While Inspiring Outdoor Adventures  

CAL FIRE operates 14 Demonstration State Forests totaling approximately 85,000 acres. Across these forests, researchers and scientists work to better understand forest ecosystems, while the public enjoys recreational activities such as mushroom collecting, hiking, and biking. In the video linked above, CAL FIRE staff work alongside the recipient of a Forest Health Research Grant at Jackson Demonstration State Forest in Mendocino County to monitor the effects of drought and wildfire on coastal redwood forests.

Good Fire in Small Doses: The Role of Pile Burning

CAL FIRE safely conducts pile burning operations as part of its Fuels Reduction and Vegetation Management Program. Throughout the winter months, our firefighters work hard to remove dangerous fire fuel in strategic areas of Butte County to protect residents and property. We encourage homeowners to use this time of year when fire risk is low to work on their defensible space.

Join Us; We're Hiring Paramedics

Are you ready to serve on the front lines of emergency response in California? As a CAL FIRE paramedic, you’ll provide advanced life support in diverse and dynamic environments—supporting fire suppression, rescue operations, and medical emergencies in communities across the state.

Visit our website | View Active Incidents | CAL FIRE on Flickr

Join our email list by signing up here and checking "Monthly CAL FIRE Community e-news"