Sonoma County Firefighter News - December 2019
GOLD RIDGE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
Measure E
On November 5th, the voters within the Gold Ridge Fire Protection District voted on Measure E which would increase funding to enhance the level of service that we currently provide to our residents. Needing 66.67% of the voting public to cast a vote in favor of the measure, the results as of November 8, 2019 are showing that the measure is passing with 70.55% of the voting public approving the measure. Once officially certified by the Sonoma County Registrar of Voters, we will start working on enhancing our fire prevention programs and work towards adding an Advanced Life Support Component to our engine company responses for medical aids. We cannot thank the community enough for the support they have provided throughout the election.
Kincaid Fire
On the evening of October 23rd, a significant fire started in the area of the Geysers in Geyserville, CA. Gold Ridge Fire District supported the suppression efforts by sending two of our fire engines as well as one of our water tenders to aid in the incident. This equipment was staffed with both full-time and volunteer staff. We would not be able to provide the assistance that we continually do without the help from our local volunteer firefighters.
Throughout the incident, we also deployed multiple Chief Officers to assist in the suppression efforts. Early Sunday morning (October 27th) an unprecedented event took place, the evacuation of the entire West County which included all of our Fire District. While our residents were evacuated, we increased staffing levels at all of our stations in order to make sure that if an incident did occur in our district, we would be able to respond safely and effectively. Thank you to all of our residents for your understanding during this dynamic event and for your continued support!
We hope that you and your families have a very happy and safe holiday season!
BODEGA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
We want to thank our staff of 18 volunteers for stepping up and assisting during the recent Red Flag warnings and the Kincade Fire. 3 of our volunteers participated in staffing our Water Tender at the Kincade Fire for the duration of the incident as a part of a Sonoma County Task Force that was upstaffed for the Red Flag Warning. Many of volunteers were committed to working at their Cal Fire Jobs or other City Fire Department jobs. The remaining members stayed back in our community and were available to respond to any emergency that arised in our immediate response area.
BODEGA BAY FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
The Bodega Bay Fire Protection District is proud to announce that Marine Support Volunteer James Fitsgerlad was sworn in during our Board meeting on November 12th. James brings a wealth of knowledge to BBFPD and is always willing to help.
Don't forget to catch us on Facebook or online at www.bbfpd.org
Take heed be cautious with your heat!
GRATON FIRE DEPARTMENT
Graton Fire Christmas Tree Farm: Thu-Sun 9-5
Yes! We are open for our 14th season! There are acres of pine, fir, and spruce trees to choose. For those who love Noble, Nordmann, and Douglas firs, we have pre-cut trees from a sustainable farm in Oregon. Most importantly, they are being kept in water so they are safer and last longer for you. The tree farm is open Thursday through Sunday from 9am to 5pm and all sales support our fire department. Trees are being sold by height, regardless of the type of tree. Pull saws and measuring sticks are available as well as help to cut, carry, trim, and net your tree. There are fire badges for the kids and cider and candy canes for all! If you have further questions, please call Heather, 322-2091. Thank you for supporting Graton Fire and our volunteer firefighters.
Blood Drive: Wed 12/18, 2pm-6pm
Come by the “Bucket Brigade” and donate blood alongside your volunteer firefighters! Get this year’s commemorative T-shirt. Making an appointment to donate ensures the blood bank schedules enough staff (last year, many walk-in donators were turned away).
Graton Toy Drive Deadline: 12/20
Our annual toy drive continues through Friday, December 20th. Each year, Graton volunteer firefighters work with Oak Grove School and local charities to determine needy families in our district. We are collecting new, unwrapped toys for at least 30 children of all ages. We accept cash donations, gift cards (for the older kids), wrapping paper, tape... whatever you can spare.
Items can be dropped off at:
• Graton Fire Station
• Graton Fire Christmas Tree Farm (Thu-Sun, 9-5)
• Graton Post Office
• Andy’s Produce Market
• Bridgeway Gas (Hwy 116 & Green Valley Rd)
• Graton Community Club (during Santa’s visit)
Thank you to everyone who donated last year and helped make Christmas a reality for other families. We look forward to your support again this year. Questions? Call 707 823-8400, ext. 120.
FORESTVILLE FIRE DEPARTMENT
The Kincade Fire last month put Forestville residents in a very unique position. The entire town was under evacuation orders with no power or gas. The evacuations went as smoothly as could be, people were helping each other, and the true sense of the great Forestville community spirit shone through. The town was under a real threat and we were very lucky that the winds didn’t pick up and bring the fire our way.
Now is the time to make sure we are all ready for the next time this happens. Think about starting a community emergency preparedness group, if you have a group ready to go please contact us at the firehouse (707) 887-2212 and we will be happy to guide you to resources that can help.
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