By Chief Ben Palm
We’re heading into October and the threat of wildfire has lessened. However there are still steps residents should take for creating defensible space and safe homes. The weeds are growing quickly, thanks to monsoon rains. Please keep your property trimmed; remove brush and leaves. Always secure an Open Burn Permit before burning brush, trash or starting a campfire. You can obtain a permit by visiting the Yarnell Fire Administration Building. As you prepare for fireplace season, make sure your chimney is cleaned. Space heaters and other electric devices should be inspected prior to use: check the electric cords and be sure to plug them into grounded outlets, avoiding the overuse of extension cords. Stay Firewise for the benefit of all.
Captain Kristee Lewis, Jordan Collins, Jeff Shearer and Jason Hershberger attended Arizona State Fire School for continuing education and certifications. They were pleased with the courses and enjoyed their time in Mesa. We will be hosting Ropes Rescue II and III in November; we are also planning an EMT Class for January.
The Explorer’s Cadet Program officially began on Saturday, October 1st, with 17 Cadets. The growth of the program is great with Captains John Rice and Kristee Lewis being the Cadet Leaders. They have many activities planned for the twice monthly training. If you would like information regarding the Yarnell Fire District Explorer’s Cadet Program, contact the Captains at 928-671-0511.
YFD is pleased to have received grant funding and donations for the last few years since the Yarnell Hill Fire. We could not effectively operate without them. We have recently been awarded grants for improving radio communications and updating EMS Equipment. Our mission is to protect life and property to the best of our ability; donations and grants have made it possible for us to fulfill that mission. One way you can support YFD is by supporting the efforts of the Yarnell Fire Auxiliary. They are raising funds for Firefighter Safety projects at YFD. They have an event scheduled for October 15th. Be sure to find their article in the Yellow Sheet.
The District is seeking more volunteers. If you would like to get involved, or know someone who is interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter, please spread the word. We are in need of volunteers who are able to commit to no less than two shifts per month. The benefits of working at YFD are numerous, including many training opportunities. Out of District volunteers are welcome; we offer comfortable crew quarters to minimize travel time. Click here for the Employment Application (PDF). You may also contact the Fire District at 928-427-6578.
August 2016 Service Calls
Incidents: 13
EMS: 6 – Motor Vehicle Accident: 1 – Public Assists: 1 – Other: 5