Happy New Year, Murrieta!
I want to take this opportunity to welcome everyone to our brand-new monthly newsletter. For almost a decade, we have been delivering the Fire Dispatch Weekly Newsletter, and it has been an excellent resource for seeing inside our organization and highlighting the good we do in the community every day. A decade ago, our format was cutting edge, but things have changed a little bit in the world, so our team has explored possibilities for a way to leverage new technology and refresh the look, feel, and delivery options for the way we communicate with you. So, Murrieta Fire & Rescue is ending the era of our weekly print and (kind-of) digital newsletter and bringing in a new digital platform, and we're bringing you along with us.
Why the switch? It's simple: we want to better connect with you. Our Constant Contact platform unlocks a whole toolbox of possibilities, letting us share the full spectrum of what your fire department does for you. With our new format, we can deliver current media formats, such as integrated videos that will allow you to experience the adrenaline rush of training exercises, get a behind-the-scenes look at our fire stations, and see firsthand the impact we make in the community. We will also move towards more interactive infographics, allowing a deeper look into fire safety statistics.
For those of you who have been with us the whole time, do not worry. We are not going to lose what made The Fire Dispatch so great. We will still have engaging stories, historical perspectives on our organization, and highlight the great work we do in the community daily. We will add some polish and new sections to showcase all the work our growing fire department does for the community, but the spirit of the weekly newsletter will remain.
As we move into this new format and develop new workflows, please give us some time to get it right. The great news is that we want your input on what you want to see monthly from your fire department. This newsletter is for you, so we ask for public input on what information you want to see presented monthly. Feel free to contact us at FireNews@MurrietaCA.gov to provide feedback.
I want to thank all of you for staying with us through this transition, and I challenge all of you to share the link to subscribe to this newsletter with at least one person who lives in Murrieta and maybe a few who are not lucky enough to call this place home.
Sincerely,
Bernie Molloy
Murrieta Fire Chief
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Murrieta Fire & Rescue News | |
Commemorative badge was last worn on Dec. 31, 2023. | |
Embracing the Future
In a symbolic return to tradition, Murrieta Fire & Rescue personnel have transitioned back to the department's original badge after proudly donning a commemorative 75th-anniversary badge in 2023. The decision to revert to our traditional badge represents the department honoring the past while embracing the future, as the firefighters continue to uphold their duty with the same unwavering dedication as our founding members.
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Community Risk Reduction
Here's a snapshot of the latest developments in the Community Risk Reduction (CRR) division as we conclude 2023:
- At the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort, our team is present each weekday (and some weekends) until they secure a Temporary Occupancy permit for the areas earmarked for a five-day event starting January 7, 2024. The resort plans to host a four-day conference, inviting operators from hot spring resorts around the globe for an exclusive preview. The official "Grand Opening" is anticipated in February or March 2024.
- The construction boom continues, with over 2,000 new apartment units underway. Notable projects include the Bridges on Los Alamos, the Monamos Terrace Apartments, the Ranch Apartment complex, Jefferson Apartments, Poppy Lane condos, Delhaven Apartments, Nutmeg Apartments, and developments near Station #4 and Willow Springs.
- In preparation for an active 2024, we've received approval to add a Development Permit Technician, with interviews scheduled for the first week of the new year. In addition, we hope to return to full staffing by mid-February, with a new fire inspector on schedule to start in the coming weeks. With the prospect of 10,000 more apartment units in Murrieta by the end of 2026, we are committed to adapting and ensuring the safety of our growing community.
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December 2023 Calls
In the spirit of transparency and community awareness, we're happy to share the vital statistics and response times for December 2023!
We're immensely proud of our team's dedication and the support we receive from the Murrieta community. As we step into a new year, Murrieta Fire & Rescue remains steadfast in our mission to serve and protect.
Full Monthly Report
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CPR/AED and First Aid Classes
Kay Riscol, the Office Specialist II at MFR, teaches CPR/AED/First Aid on the first Saturday of every month. In 2023, she trained a total of 76 individuals. The class is typically attended by those who require certification for work. However, last year, several took the class in order to be prepared for emergency situations involving their family members. The next class is scheduled for February 3 at Fire Station #4.
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Station Tours & Visits
Murrieta Fire opens its doors to you, offering a behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life of firefighters. Whether you're a scout troop eager to learn, an elementary class seeking an educational adventure, or a corporate group looking for an engaging and enriching learning experience. You'll see the fire trucks up close, try on the gear, and learn essential fire safety tips.
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Training and Preparedness | | |
Total Training Hours
December 2023 - 1,537.50
Total for 2023 - 22,242.91
Training Highlights
- Company Level Training
- City Policy Review
- Annual Safety Stand-Down
- Mandated OSHA Refresher Topic
- EMS Airway Management
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EOC Training for Staff
This training, taught by the City's Disaster Preparedness Coordinator Rachel Hollinger, was used to introduce newly assigned Emergency Operations Center (EOC) members to the roles and functions of an EOC and how it is implemented to support Incident Command. For some city staff this is their first experience with serving as an emergency responder. During a disaster, the EOC may need staffing 24/7 until the community has recovered.
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Winter Heating Safety
Now that we are in California winter mode, with the temperatures cooling at night, we want to emphasize the importance of safety when using heaters to stay warm. Please be vigilant about proper ventilation and regular maintenance to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for everyone.
Read More...
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Probationary Testing Complete | |
Congratulations to lateral firefighters Mike Kim, Derek Cook, and Dustin Emter for passing and completing their probationary testing! Their "official" badge pinning will take place in April 2024 as part of their one-year anniversary. | |
Apprenticeship Program
Congratulations to our firefighters for successfully completing their apprenticeship program. Captains Greg Hull and Brandon Roach for Fire Officer, Engineers Justin Mack and Brad Aarts for Fire Engineer, and Firefighter/Paramedics Anthony Hallworth, Andre Hernandez, Michael Ray, and Reginald Todd for Firefighter 1 & 2/EMT.
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December 2023 Photo Recap
Each month we plan to bring you a photo recap of the events that occurred in the previous month, including significant incidents, crews training, public education, community events, donations, and whatever!
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Become a Subscriber
Join our mailing list to receive the latest e-news and updates from Murrieta Fire & Rescue in your email inbox. Either scan the QR code or click the link below to sign up!
Sign Up Here!
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Fire Administration Office - Closed
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Stair Climb Fundraiser for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Intersection in front of Albertson's on California Oaks
Using a stair climber machine, Murrieta firefighters will continuously climb in full gear, throughout the day, for donations to "fill the boot". Please come out and support your Murrieta firefighters!
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Presidents Day
Fire Administration Office - Closed
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"Be prepared - have a fire extinguisher and know how to use it" | | | | |
