Marin Firefighter News

The extraordinary rash of lightning-caused wildland fires in Northern California has dramatically underscored the critical statewide natural disaster risk facing California in the 21st Century. This week, the Blue Ribbon Fire Task Force renewed its call for California’s policy makers at all levels to “get real” about the ongoing fire threat with more equipment and personnel and a serious commitment to fire-safe land-use planning.

Fallen Newport Beach Firefighter Kevin Pryor was remembered Tuesday as a "Renaissance man" whose devotion to his job was enriched by a love of history and a gift for impressions. Pryor died June 15th shortly after returning from the Humboldt Fire. He was remembered by friends and fellow firefighters at a Memorial Service in Westlake Village.

An ever-growing wave of  lightning-sparked wildland fires continues to consume structures and acreage from Kern County to the Oregon Border. As of June 30 (AM), nearly 1,500 separate lightning fires were burning in Northern California, consuming upwards of 400,000 acres and leaving much of the North State in a smoky haze. Thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes, and nearly 20,000 firefighters are on the front lines battling the blazes.

Even as it faces one of the most aggressive management attacks, Vallejo Firefighters Local 1186 has been able to count on united and active labor support. This week, Local 1186 was recognized for its part in creating that steadfast labor unity, winning the California Labor Federation's award for Outstanding Volunteer Mobilization.

The future of a critical source of support for fallen firefighters and their families was assured with the signing of CPF-supported legislation, AB 1812. Authored by Assemblyman Juan Arambula (D - Fresno), AB 1812 extends the California Fire Foundation's Memorial Tax Check-Off to 2016.