American Canyon Fire Protection District News-Ladder, May 2024

M A Y 2 0 2 4

A Message from the Chief

Dear American Canyon Community,

As we transition into the warmer months, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about fire safety. Here are the key highlights for May:

June 1st officially kicks off Weed Abatement Season. As Spring has arrived and moves towards Summer, we remind all residents to prioritize weed abatement on their properties. Keeping vegetation trimmed and cleared helps reduce the risk of wildfires and ensures the safety of our community.

I am pleased to announce a significate milestone, the 10th Anniversary Celebration of the Advanced Life Support Program for the American Canyon Fire Protection District. Over the past decade, our dedicated team of paramedics and emergency medical technicians have provided critical care and saved numerous lives. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those involved in making this program a success. To learn more about the upcoming celebration, see more information on page 10.

Recently, Firefighter/Paramedics Conner Alexander, Eric Hanson and Firefighters Chris Heim and Sarah Bayersdorfer successfully completed their 18-month probation period. Their dedication, commitment, and hard work have been exemplary, and we look forward to their continued contributions to the District and American Canyon community.

With beautiful weather approaching, it is officially barbecue season! It’s essential to practice fire safety while enjoying outdoor cooking. Always maintain a safe distance from flammable materials, never leave grills unattended, and ensure proper disposal of hot coals. Let’s make this summer season enjoyable and safe for everyone. Thank you for your continued support in keeping our community safe.

Stay safe!

Geoff Belyea

Fire Chief

American Canyon Fire Protection District

April Training

Monthly Training Hours 743 YTD Training Hours 8,133

Module 3 Testing

EMS Skills Update

Multi Discpline USAR Drill

High Angle Rope Skills

Fire Skill‘Progression ’

In the world of firefighting, proficiency isn't just a goal; it's a necessity. The American Canyon Fire Protection District understands this deeply, which is why we’ve designed a comprehensive 18-month probationary training program aimed at honing the skills of aspiring firefighters. Comprised of four distinct modules, this program is more than just a training regimen; it's a pathway to excellence and safety in the face of adversity.

Module 1: The Foundation (16 Weeks)

Every journey begins with a single step, and for aspiring firefighters, that step is after the initial internal fire academy. Module 1 lays the groundwork for success, introducing Probationary Firefighters to the fundamental principles of firefighting. From mastering equipment usage to understanding fire behavior, Probationary Firefighters delve into the core elements that underpin their future roles. Here, they not only learn the ropes but also cultivate the mindset of a firefighter –one marked by discipline, resilience, and unwavering commitment.

Module 2: Building Skills (16 Weeks)

With a solid foundation in place, Module 2 takes things up a notch, focusing on skill development. Probationary Firefighters delve deeper into techniques for fire suppression, search and rescue operations, and wildland and ropes and knots. Hands-on training exercises provide invaluable experience, allowing Probationary Firefighters to apply their newfound knowledge in realistic scenarios. As they navigate through this module, they not only enhance their technical abilities but also cultivate the teamwork and communication skills essential for effective firefighting.

Module 3: Advanced Tactics (16 Weeks)

As the training progresses, so too does the complexity of the challenges. Module 3 is where Probationary Firefighters refine their tactical acumen, learning to adapt and respond to a diverse range of firefighting scenarios. From mid-rise structure fires to wildland incidents, this module equips Probationary Firefighters with the strategic thinking and decision-making prowess needed to tackle any situation head-on. Through simulations and field exercises, they sharpen their abilities to assess risks, formulate action plans, and perform with confidence amidst chaos.

Module 4: Engineering Skills (24 Weeks)

In the final stretch of the program, Module 4 serves as the culmination of months of hard work and dedication. Here, the emphasis is placed on emergency driving, mapping, apparatus placement, and the mathematical and technical challenges of pumping water. We also focus on cultivating the qualities of leadership, integrity, and compassion – the hallmarks of an exemplary firefighter. By the time they complete this module, Probationary Firefighters emerge not just as certified firefighters but with the ability to perform engineering skills as capable guardians of their communities. Upon completion of this module, our Probationary Firefighters are well versed in many of the aspects of firefighting, Emergency medical care, driving and pumping our various fire apparatus.

A Commitment to Excellence

At the American Canyon Fire Protection District, the 18-month probationary training program isn't just about producing firefighters; it's about nurturing a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Through each module, Probationary Firefighters are not only equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for success but also instilled with the values that define the firefighting profession. With safety as the guiding principle, this program ensures that every firefighter who emerges from its ranks is prepared to face any challenge with courage, competence, and compassion.

Del Castillo, Cummings & Loughran, Mod 1 Bensman, Mod 4

Probation Completed

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Our friends from Mustard Seed Preschool and Kindergarten visited Station 11 on April 26th. They were able to 'knock down' a 'fire' with Firefighter Heim and Captain Etchieson, see and touch Probationary Firefighter Loughran’s turnouts, and take pictures with our beloved Mascot Marshal!

3rd Annual Women

On Saturday, April 27th, Firefighters Bayersdorfer and Murchison attended the 3rd Annual Women in Public Safety event held by Santa Rosa Fire Department.

This event will inspires women and girls to pursue careers in public safety as they interact with women working in law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services, and other life safety services.

Firefighter Bayersdorfer, the first female fighter in American Canyon Fire Protection District’s history to complete probation, was on-hand to assist with a vehicle extrication demonstration and climbing the 110 foot ladder.

To read more visit The Press Democrats article: https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/third-annualwomen-in-public-safety-event/?artslide=5

Safeguarding Homes and Communities:

The

Critical

Role of Vegetation Management and Weed Abatement

As the warmer months approach, so does the heightened risk of vegetation fires. While we embrace the beauty of nature surrounding our homes and communities, it's crucial to recognize the potential dangers posed by overgrown vegetation. The American Canyon Fire Protection District Ordinance 2015-01 underscores the importance of vegetation management and weed abatement in safeguarding both our homes and the broader community from the devastating impacts of wildfires.

Vegetation fires are not just a distant concern; they pose a real and present danger to our neighborhoods. Overgrown vegetation, particularly during dry seasons, serves as fuel for fires, escalating their intensity and spread. In the event of a wildfire, homes surrounded by dense vegetation become exceptionally vulnerable, placing lives and property at risk.

To mitigate this risk, proactive measures must be taken. Vegetation management and weed abatement play a pivotal role in creating defensible space around homes and properties.

By clearing excess vegetation and removing combustible materials, we create a buffer zone that helps impede the progress of wildfires and provides firefighters with a safer environment to combat the blaze.

In line with our commitment to community safety, the American Canyon Fire Protection District Ordinance 2015-01 outlines specific guidelines for vegetation management and weed abatement. This ordinance serves as a framework for residents to take responsibility for their properties and contribute to the collective effort of fire prevention.

This year, as a proactive measure, letters have been issued to residents with reported overgrowth as a courtesy notice. This initiative aims to raise awareness and prompt action among homeowners to address potential fire hazards on their properties.

Beginning June 1st, inspections and enforcement efforts will be initiated to ensure compliance with the ordinance.

Protecting our homes and communities from the threat of vegetation fires is a shared responsibility. While the District plays a crucial role in response and containment, the proactive efforts of residents are equally essential. By adhering to vegetation management guidelines and weed abatement practices, we not only safeguard our own properties but also contribute to the overall resilience of our community.

Together, let's create a fire-resilient community where every home is protected, and every resident can feel secure.

To Report A Property that has Overgrowth

Scan the QR Code on the right

EXPLORER EXPLORER CORNER CORNER

April Drill: Evolution One

In our latest explorer drill, our dedicated explorers continued honing their skills, focusing on mastering Evolution One. This crucial evolution involves a series of steps aimed at efficient fire response tactics.

Evolution One primarily entails two critical components: hooking up to a hydrant to establish a water supply line and then pulling a cross lay for fire attack. These maneuvers are fundamental in swiftly and effectively combating fires.

During the drill, our explorers executed Evolution One wearing full personal protective equipment (PPE) and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), ensuring their safety while simulating real-life firefighting scenarios.

The emphasis of this drill was on hose evolutions, a foundational aspect of firefighting. By concentrating on these techniques, our explorers are being prepared for the upcoming Explorer Academy, which will be hosted by the Fairfield Fire Department.

We are immensely proud of the dedication and commitment displayed by our explorers in their pursuit of excellence. Through regular drills and training sessions like these, they are not only expanding their skill set but also fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork.

Stay tuned for more updates on our explorers' journey as they continue to prepare themselves to serve our community with professionalism and valor.

SUCCESS WITH SAFETY

May - Outdoor Cooking

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

APRIL UPDATE: On Saturday, April 13th ACCERT assisted AmCanFire by brining rehab (water, Gatorade and snacks) to the scene of a working structure fire.

On Saturday and Sunday, April 21 & 22, ACCERT participated with NapaCERT, and in their annual exercise. This included CERT teams from Napa County, Solano County, Sonoma County, Yolo County and Napa City Parks and Recreation Department.

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, May 13th @ 7pm

First Responder Rehabilitation Training

225 James Rd, Station 211

To learn more about the 'Basic CERT Class' scan the QR Code