A Message from the Chief
Greetings American Canyon Community,
As we move through August, it's crucial to address the ongoing wildfire situation affecting California. Wildfires have been occurring statewide, posing significant risks to lives and properties. In light of this, we emphasize the importance of weed abatement and maintaining defensible space around your homes. These measures are vital in protecting our community from the devastating effects of wildfires.
We had a fantastic time celebrating with the American Canyon community at the 4th of July event. It was wonderful to see everyone come together and enjoy the festivities safely. Franny the Firetruck and our official mascot, Marshal, joined the crews for a funfilled parade!
At the July 23rd Fire District Board meeting, we had the honor of recognizing the retirement of Captain Jose Martin after 20 years of dedicated service. His commitment and hard work have been invaluable to our District. Additionally, we celebrated Captain Max Etchieson's 15-year anniversary of serving the American Canyon Fire District and the community. Their dedication and service are greatly appreciated.
Looking ahead, AmCanFire will join the American Canyon Police Department for National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6th. We look forward to connecting with community members throughout the event.
As always, please stay safe and vigilant.
Geoff Belyea
Fire Chief
American Canyon Fire Protection District
Operations Division
July Training
Monthly Training Hours 1,383
YTD Training Hours 13,080
Highlights
Module Testing
EMS Skills Update
USAR Drill - Trenching
Extrication (Jaws of Life)
Joint Ventilation Training with Vallejo Fire Department
In July, AmCanFire collaborated with other fire agencies from Napa and Solano counties to form a prepositioned Strike Team. These teams are strategically staged during high-alert weather events, such as red flag warnings, to reduce response times and bolster staffing in areas at potential high risk. This proactive approach allows us to deploy personnel more swiftly to a fire scene, effectively slowing the fire's spread.
AmCanFire personnel also aided in containing the 'Toll Fire,' which burned 41 acres. Wildfires remain a significant threat in California. AmCanFire is actively involved in a Statewide Mutual Aid program coordinated by Napa County and the Statewide Operational Emergency Services (OES). This program ensures that while we assist other agencies, they are equally prepared to support us when needed.
AmCanFire joined the American Canyon Parks and Recreation team for the annual 4th of July parade and celebration at Community Park II. We were able to meet several community members. Franny the Firertuck and our official mascot, ‘Marshal’ were even able to join us!
PUBLIC SAFETY CADET ACADEMY
AmCanFire partners with the California Cadet Academy to provide high school-aged students the opportunity to experience what it would be like to become a firefighter, law enforcement officer, or emergency medical technician.
AmCanFire has assisted in teaching extrication with the 'Jaws of Life' for several years, allowing the students to have hands-on experience with tools and real-time evolutions of what it takes to save a victim trapped in a vehicle.
The California Cadet Academy strives to promote education and provide basic vocational training. The program is designed to give students a head start when applying to college and/or attending certification ers, deputy sheriffs, park al technicians.
For more information on this unique and amazing opportunity, visit: calcadet.com.
EXPLORER EXPLORER CORNER CORNER
Ladder Evolutions
AmCanFire Explorers continued ladder training for the month of July. This continued training focused on ladder evolutions and technique refinement.
The Explorers were introduced to the 24 ft extension ladder. Each ladder size has specific uses in the Fire Service. Ladders can be used for bridging, building access, vehicle access and more.
The next drill introduced a 14 ft ladder, two-person ‘throw’. (Throwing a ladder involves hoisting and balancing an extension ladder onto the side of a structure at a 65 to 75-degree angle.) This specific drill provided them the skill of gaining access into buildings for rescue purposes from the exterior of the building.
Nomenclature and ladder commands (verbalizing the next steps of the deployment of the ladder to keep the area clear and safe) were also reviewed.
These drills are the foundation for the next step in learning the complex and comprehensive skill set of ladders in the Fire Service.
SUCCESS WITH SAFETY
What is ACCERT?
ACCERT, American Canyon Community Response Team, is a program that educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may occur where they live.
ACCERT trains volunteers in basic disaster response skills such as: Fire Safety Light Search and Rescue Team Organization Communication
CERT teams exist to “fill the gaps” emergency services may have during a disaster response. We’re happy to be a resource, even when needs change.
If you are interested in seeing what ACCERT is all about, please contact info@americancanyoncert.org
Next General Membership Meeting
Monday, August 12th @ 7pm 225 James Rd, Station 211
To learn more about the 'Basic CERT Class' scan the QR Code
2024 National CERT Conference, Washington, D.C.
JULY UPDATE:
On July 23rd through the 26th, ACCERT Director Helems Sr. and Deputy Director Tabbert represented our CERT team at the 2024 National CERT Conference at our Nation’s capital, Washington DC. The conference highlighted CERT’s ability to be flexible as a community resource and inclusive to all community members. Nearly 400 Attendees representing 40 states participated in the conference! We hope to integrate all the new content to the benefit of our local CERT program.
For more information on the National CERT Conference visit: https://mms.nationalcert.org/Calendar/moreinfo.php? org id=CERT&eventid=139559
