It's time to Ready, Set, Go for Emergencies

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September 2025

Rising Tide: One Mother's Frightening Lesson in Ocean Safety

With the help of partners like California State Parks and other agencies along the coast, CAL FIRE helicopters and ground personnel execute dramatic cliff and ocean rescues throughout the year. These rescues sometimes end in tragedy. Always make sure you are prepared by following the tips below.

Learn About Water Safety

Discover Careers at CAL FIRE in the Latest Five Points with the Chief Podcast

In this episode, Chief Joe Tyler and Chief Deputy Director Anale Burlew discuss the wide variety of career opportunities within CAL FIRE, and how the department’s new website, JoinCALFIRE.com, makes the search and application process easier for applicants.

Watch on YouTube

Listen on Spotify

From Ignition to Full Containment: How We Size Up Wildfires

Igniting on August 21, 2025, the Pickett Fire in Napa County has since burned over 6,800 acres. Thanks to the hard work of CAL FIRE and partner firefighting resources on the ground and in the air the fire is over 90 percent contained, and fire suppression repair is nearing completion. But how does CAL FIRE plan for such an event? Check out the video linked below to learn more.

How CAL FIRE Sizes up Wildfires

Creating Safer Communities: Tulare County Defensible Space Inspections

In Tulare County, Defensible Space Inspectors are 'saturating' neighborhoods with inspections. Saturation efforts inspect the majority of properties at a community-wide level, helping to bolster defensible space at a broader level. Creating defensible space around your home is one of the best ways to protect your property from wildfire. Complete your defensible space self-assessment by following the link below and find out more about how you can prepare your home and property for wildfire.

Ready for Wildfire Self-Assessment

Are You and Your Family Prepared for an Emergency?

Take a closer look at the essential steps and right actions you can take now to prepare your family and safeguard your home against the next California wildfire. From creating defensible space and emergency kits to practicing evacuation plans, these measures can make a lifesaving difference when disaster strikes. Don’t wait—start preparing today.

Start your Plan Today

Prepare your Pets Before it's too Late

Don’t forget your pets and livestock when preparing for wildfire. With thoughtful planning and a few proactive steps, you can greatly increase their chances of survival if disaster strikes. From creating go-bags with food, water, and medications to arranging safe transportation and shelter options, every action helps ensure the animals you care for stay protected.

Learn More about Animal Safety

Evacuation Warning vs. Order vs. Shelter in Place – Know the Differences

In an emergency, every second can mean the difference between life and death — and knowing the right terms can help you act quickly and effectively. Clear understanding allows people to stay calm, make better decisions, and support first responders. Watch as Battalion Chief David Acuna breaks down these critical terms and explains when its time to GO.

Is your Go-Bag Ready for Evacuation?

Wildfires can spread with alarming speed, often leading to rapidly changing evacuation orders that leave little time to react. Having a Go Bag ready in advance — packed with essential supplies, medications, and important documents — can make all the difference. With your necessities in one place, you’ll be able to leave quickly, safely, and with greater peace of mind during an emergency.

How to Assemble your Wildfire-Ready Kit

CAL FIRE Shows Retardant Drop Dangers

Fire retardant drops may slow flames, but they come with hidden dangers. CAL FIRE San Diego Unit and CBS 8 teamed up to explain.

Learn More

New CAL FIRE Grant Funding for Forestry Jobs

This latest round of Business and Workforce Development funding will support forestry efforts across the state.

Learn More

Join Us; We're Hiring Foresters

Ready to start your climb into state service? CAL FIRE is hiring multiple Forester I positions across the state! Forester I’s perform critical duties in connection with forest, range, watershed management, protection, and planning. Foresters are also required to participate in fire protection, fire prevention, and all-risk response.

Join CAL FIRE

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