October 2024

Staying at the Forefront of Technology: How CAL FIRE uses Uncrewed Aerial Systems

CAL FIRE is expanding its capacity to deploy Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) for both fuel reduction work and wildland firefighting. CAL FIRE UAS pilots go through a series of courses designed to increase their skills and maintain safe operations. The Aerial Ignition Hybrid Academy is a national course that expands pilots’ skillset to include the ability to perform prescribed burning operations. By deploying UAS, Incident Commanders reduce the risk to crews; providing more information to firefighters on the ground and access to areas that cannot be reached on foot.

CAL FIRE Teams Up with Law Enforcement for Active Shooter Training

CAL FIRE recently teamed up with law enforcement for an intense active shooter training scenario in San Bernardino County. They tackled real-life scenarios designed to save lives in critical situations. In this training drill CAL FIRE acted as the advanced life support paramedics, providing essential care during and after the active shooter incident. The training exemplifies CAL FIRE’s essential role as an all-risk agency.   

CAL FIRE Grant Program Offers Hands-on Fuels Reduction Experience

Get a glimpse of the Fire Forward Program at Audubon Canyon Ranch. The program received funding from CAL FIRE’s Business and Workforce Development grant program and is providing training and knowledge to individuals pursuing a career in land stewardship and fuels reduction. Graduates gain skills in prescribed fire use and ecosystem health, preparing them for their future endeavors.  

Crews in Action: Battling the Line Fire

The Line Fire has scorched more than 40,000 acres in San Bernardino County, and crews are making progress in containing the blaze. Get an insight into some of the tasks CAL FIRE teams undertook during the incident and view photos from many incidents from 2024 by following the link below to CAL FIRE’s official FLICKR.

Celebrating California's 900th Firewise Community in Siskiyou County

Recently, CAL FIRE and the City of Dunsmuir Fire Department celebrated the 900th Firewise Community USA® in California! Dunsmuir is not only the 900th Firewise Community in the state but also the first in Siskiyou County. The Firewise USA® is an initiative that promotes collaborative efforts among residents, local fire departments, and other key stakeholders to bolster the fire resistance of homes and surroundings. Take a look at photos and video from the event and learn more about how you can make your community Firewise below.

Why Are Smoke Alarms Important? A Classic CAL FIRE Commercial Explains

It’s Fire Prevention Week and this year’s theme is “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!” According to the Red Cross, the fatality rate in homes with working smoke alarms is 51% less than the rate for homes without them. Smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, but they have to be working in order to deliver the needed protection, Head to the National Fire Protection Association Website below to learn more and click the video above for a CAL FIRE classic video, where Gilbert Gottfried explains how to be cool about fire safety.   

Kitchen Safety Starts with You

Although this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is focused on smoke alarms, it is a great opportunity to remind ourselves of some other helpful fire prevention tips around the home. Did you know that cooking equipment is involved in over 150,000 home fires a year? Keep you and your loved ones safe by practicing good kitchen safety

How Defensible Space Helped Protect a Homeowner's Property During the Park Fire

Meet homeowners from Forest Ranch and Cohasset as they share their dedication to create defensible space around their property and how it played a crucial part in protecting their homes during one of California’s largest wildfires. This story highlights the importance of fire safety measures and how preparation can make a difference in the face of devastating wildfires. 

The Positive Effect of Fuel Treatments on Firefighting

Fuels Treatment Effectiveness Reports showcase how CAL FIRE and our partners’ fuels reduction efforts not only assist firefighters in suppression efforts, but also how fuels treatments protect California's life, property, and natural resources. As the 2024 fire season has progressed, we have seen many fuels reduction projects impacted by wildfires. Click the link below to read and watch a selection of Fuels Treatment Effectiveness Reports and see the many different ways that these projects have assisted with firefighting efforts.  

Campfire Safety: Key Tips to Prevent Fires and Stay Safe

Campfires can be a major fire hazard if not managed properly. In this brief video, CAL FIRE provides a breakdown on the rules you need to know to ensure your campfire is safe, minimizing the risk of wildfires and injuries. Learn how to enjoy your campfire responsibly and help protect the environment.

Join Us, We're Hiring Communications Operators

Join CAL FIRE as a Communications Operator and use your multitasking skills to handle emergencies. You'll dispatch emergency response equipment and law enforcement, serve as the public's first contact, gather vital information, and help maintain calm during crises. This role not only supports your community but also offers opportunities for your own career growth.

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