Blog

By Chief Ben Palm

PLEASE GET A BURN PERMIT:

Arizona has been dry for quite some time, and the heat lingered long. Multiple wildfires have started in our State and the fire danger is High. There are several things you can do to help us serve you better:

Firstly, create defensible space around your home by cutting tall grass and removing low tree limbs; thoroughly rake leaves.  Secondly, obtain a burning permit for all open flame fires and brush burning.  This is very important! Stop in at the Fire Administration Building. There is no fee, and it helps us to stay informed. Let’s stay Firewise.

Becoming Fire Adapted Communities:

Join us at the Wildfire Adapted Community Event, Saturday, January 13th at 11am at the Congress Fire Station.  Congress firefighters and our Auxiliary are cooking up some Chili! A suggested donation is $6 for adults/$3 for children to cover the cost of food. Denny Foulk from Yavapai County Emergency Management will be presenting information relating to evacuation preparation. This is the second event for the Wildfire Adapted Communities. YFD hosted a successful pancake breakfast on November 4th.  The Wildfire Adapted Community Coalition involves Congress, Wickenburg, Peeples Valley, Southern Yavapai, Williamson Valley-Bagdad and Yarnell Fire Departments. Looking forward to what we can accomplish together. A suggested donation is $6 for adults/$3 for children to cover the cost of food.

New Faces at YFD:

We are happy to have Autumn Winter and Devin Carvalho on our team! Autumn is an EMT and Devin is a Medic and Firefighter who is assisting with our Cadet Program. Both join us from out of town, and we welcome them to YFD’s Family.

Training Updates:

Congratulations to Chandler Hill, Taylor Erwin, Jesse Root and Zach Moralez on graduating from the Yarnell Fire Training Center EMT program on November 18^th. Also, Josh Western is preparing to graduate from Paramedic School on December 16^th. Jeff Shearer and Nick Bomar are attending Firefighter I and II classes in Bagdad through March 2018. Keep up the good work!

Employee Spotlight:

YFD is a combination Fire Department who relies heavily on dedicated volunteers.  Without them it would be difficult to provide efficient service.  One of those volunteers is Chuck Edwards. Chuck resides in Glen Ilah, is a true family man who is very proud of his wife, Trish, and his daughters. Among his hobbies are star-gazing, traveling and camping; he’s also a movie aficionado, with particular interest in Sci-Fi. He sings well, both for fun and in the Community Presbyterian Church choir. Chuck was in the first EMT graduating class at Yarnell Fire Training Center. He is also a certified wildland firefighter. He is a great addition to YFD, and he has added to the cohesiveness of our department. We know we can count on him.  Thank you, Chuck, for being a dedicated volunteer!

Cadet Program:

This is our third year and we’re excited to have 8 students. The Cadets were visited by Air Vac 17, Wickenburg on November 4^th. For information about this program Contact Captain Rice at 928-427-6578.

October Calls: 19

EMS: 14          Motor Vehicle Accidents: 1   Welfare Checks: 1      Smoke Checks: 1        Wildfire: 2

By Chief Ben Palm

Wildfire Outlook

It was an active fire season in Oregon, California and Montana. There is still fire threat in Arizona; remember that cool, dry air is as much a fire hazard as when the temperatures are high.  This is a great time to do your fall yard cleaning: remove brush, trim trees and cut tall grasses. Let’s stay Firewise!

Becoming Fire Adapted Communities:

Living in a wildland urban interface has taught us that education and preparation are the keys to fire prevention and response to wildfire.  Thanks to a Fire Prevention and Safety Grant from FEMA, YFD has joined a Coalition to help our community and surrounding areas to become fire adapted.  Under the direction of Bruce Olson and Denise Roggio, we will be involved in Community Outreach. On Saturday, October 7^th, Bruce will be at Home Depot, Prescott, to take part in their Fire Prevention Expo; 150 children are expected to attend from 9am -noon. We will also be able to provide more education and gifts to the students at Model Creek School at their October Fire Prevention Week. Many other outreach activities are being planned. Thank you to the Yarnell Fire Auxiliary and Linda Ma for their committed support for Coalition activities. For information, contact Program Director, Denise, at 928-427-6578.

Breakfast at the Station! Mark Your Calendars:

The Yarnell Fire Auxiliary will be hosting a Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, November 4^th at the Yarnell Fire Station, 8am. The event is open to all ages from Congress to Wilhoit.  Join us for a delicious breakfast followed by a brief presentation about Fire Prevention and Preparedness. We will provide take-home packets that pertain to the topic. Pancakes, Eggs and Bacon – $8/adult or $4/child suggested donation. This is a kick-off event for becoming Fire Adapted Communities.

Anniversary Coins for Sale: In honor of YFD’s 60^th year in service, a coin has been minted to commemorate the anniversary. Please see Denise at the Admin. Building to purchase yours for $15.

Hazardous Fuels Project – Thanks!

Firstly, thank you to Bruce Olson for the fantastic work as supervisor for Yarnell Fire District, mitigating 22 acres of fuels. Secondly, thank you to those property owners who participated and volunteered many hours to make the project successful.

Employee Spotlight:

Committed employees make all the difference.  I’d like to thank Denise Roggio for her hard work at YFD. Denise is the SAFER Grant Administrator.  She has helped to acquire more than $200,000 in grant funding for YFD since she joined us in February 2015.  Last year, she earned the credential, Certified Grant Writer© from the American Grant Writers Association; since then she has been a conference speaker, educating other grant writers. Denise is also a full time student at NAU, a singer/pianist, a music teacher at Model Creek School and performs at various venues on the weekends. She is an important part of our daily administration. Our office is upbeat and fun because of the camaraderie between the office staff.  She often says that we are her “commercial free entertainment.” Denise, thank you for all you do!

Cadet Program:

The 2017-2018 Cadet year will start in November.  Registration is $50 per Cadet and forms are available at the Admin. Building. Contact Captain Rice at 928-427-6578 for information.

AUGUST 2017  Service Calls  Incidents: 21 – EMS: 9   Welfare checks: 3 Public Assists: 3 Motor Vehicle Accidents: 4  Fire: 1 Snake Removal: 1

By Chief Ben Palm

Wildfire Outlook

At this time, we remain alert and cautious as we hope you will continue to do so. Open burning is allowed, but we require a burn permit from the Yarnell Fire District Administration office; this ensures that we are aware of your burn in case of emergency or calls regarding smoke. Keep your grasses cut and keep 30 feet of clearance around your home.  Thank you for your continued cooperation!

YFD Projects:

The 2017 Fuels Abatement Project continues through September 30^th.  If you would like information about how to protect your home, please call us at 928-427-6578. Other projects include trimming around the fire hydrants in Yarnell, and planning based on grant resources.

Anniversary Coins for Sale: In honor of YFD’s 60^th year in service, a coin has been minted to commemorate the anniversary. Please see Denise at the Admin. Building to purchase yours for $15.

EMT Class Begins:

The Yarnell Fire Training Center is hosting an EMT Certification Class beginning Tuesday, September 12^th.  Class meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6pm – 10pm, and every Saturday from 8am – 5pm for 11 weeks, ending on Saturday, November 18^th. The Training Center is located in the Yarnell Fire Station.  Cost: $850, all inclusive.  Updated immunizations required for clinical participation.  To register or obtain information, please contact Denise Roggio at 928-427-6578.

YFD Staff Training:

Arizona State Fire School begins on September 6^th; four of us will be attending classes in Mesa.  Two of our staff are enrolled in Prescott’s Fire Academy.  The Academy is a 6 month commitment resulting in Firefighter I and II certification.

Good News:

Congratulations to Jason Hershberger, who will be graduating Paramedic School on September 14^th.  And that’s not all: On August 12^th, Jason proposed to another of our staff, Jordan Collins, who happily accepted! A March wedding is being planned. We wish them all the best.

Employee Spotlight:

The daily business at the Fire District wouldn’t be successful without committed employees.  I’d like to thank Nina Bour-Beau for her hard work at YFD. Nina resides in town and is our QuickBooks/Payroll Administrator who handles reporting, deposits, budgeting and assisting with all financial matters. She also does the bookwork for the Yarnell Community Center and is the secretary at Yarnell Community Presbyterian Church. She is a guitarist and singer, a devoted daughter and loves her Chiweenie. Nina joined us in October 2012 and adds so much to our cohesive team; her quick wit makes for a fun office environment. Nina’s job isn’t easy; in fact it’s very detailed and sometimes burdensome. She can be counted on like clockwork. We’re grateful for her dedication. Thanks, Nina!

Cadet Program:

The 2017-2018 Cadet year will start in October.  Registration is $50 per Cadet and forms are available at the Admin. Building. Contact Captain Rice at 928-427-6578 for information.

JULY 2017  Service Calls  Incidents: 11 – EMS: 7   Welfare checks: 1 Public Assists: 1 Wildland Fire: 1 Snake Removal: 1

By Chief Ben Palm

Wildfire Outlook

Monsoon rains have reduced the probability of ignition in our area.  Effective July 19^th, burn restrictions are lifted.  However, we still request your cooperation with keeping tall grasses trimmed and obtaining a burn permit at the Fire Administration Office.  Now that we’ve had rain, grasses and weeds will take over your yard – if you let them.  Remember to trim tree branches; there should be a 6 ft clearance at the base.  Thanks in advance for being Firewise.

Hazardous Fuels Abatement Project

Bruce Olson, supervisor for the 2017 Fuels project in Yarnell, reports that 11 acres have been treated.  The project was made possible by a grant from AZ Division of Forestry and Fire Management.  If you would like information about how to protect your home, please call us at 928-427-6578.

EMT CLASS COMING SOON:

The Yarnell Fire Training Center is hosting an EMT Certification Class beginning Tuesday, September 12^th.  Class meets every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6pm – 10pm, and every Saturday from 8am – 5pm for 11 weeks, ending on Saturday, November 18^th. The Training Center is located in the Yarnell Fire Station.  Lead Instructor: Jason Hershberger. Cost: $850, all inclusive.  Updated immunizations required for clinical participation.  To register or obtain information, please contact Denise Roggio at 928-427-6578.

YFD News:

The Yarnell Fire Auxiliary Board presented the Fire District Board with a check for $10,000 from funds they raised at the Yarnell Memorial Run, June 3^rd.  Last year’s event provided the funds to purchase our Wildland Ambulance, which has been active on two Wildfires this season.  This year’s Memorial Run is helping with our vehicle maintenance, which can become quite costly.  We are grateful for the Auxiliary and their outstanding efforts in support of YFD.

We are happy to report that on June 10^th, we were awarded a grant from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation for nearly $23,000 to purchase Self Contained Breathing Apparatus; this purchase helps YFD remain in compliance with National Fire Protection Agency guidelines. Many thanks to the Foundation for filling a gap for our Department and the Community. By the way, did you know there is a Firehouse Subs in Prescott Valley? Visit them for a great sandwich – mention we highly recommend: 3088 N Glassford Hill Rd, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

CADET PROGRAM:

YFD thanks Kristee Lewis for being a part of our team for 5 years.  This past year, she came to Yarnell faithfully as a Cadet Program Leader.  She will no longer be able to function in that capacity and will be missed by the group.  The 2017-2018 Cadet year will start in October.  Contact the department at 928-427-6578 for information.

JUNE 2017  Service Calls

Incidents: 19 – Average response time:  9.47 (9 Minutes, 28 Seconds) 

EMS: 11                Motor Vehicle Accident: 1          Welfare checks: 1

Mutual Aid: 2       Public Assists: 2                             Smoke Checks: 2

Structure Fire: 0    Wildland Fire: 2

by Chief Ben Palm

Wildfire Outlook

Effective June 1^st, 2017, Yarnell Fire District has authorized a Stage 1 Burn Ban.  Due to dry and windy conditions, we issued the ban in keeping with our mission to protect life and property. A Stage 1 Ban states that no burn permits will be issued, use of fireworks and other pyrotechnic displays are prohibited except by commercial special events permit and smoking cigarettes should be confined to private residences or designated smoking areas.  Open flames are prohibited and cooking outdoors requires supervision. The grasses are turning yellow and brown, indicating drier conditions. Please cut tall grasses around your home and remove tree limbs within 6 feet of the ground.

Success for our First Community Outreach Program!

The Community Outreach for Wildfire Preparation Day of May 6^th was a great event with 39 people in attendance.  We know Ice Cream is always a good thing, but the information provided by Bruce Olson, Shawn Jackson and Judy Springer was invaluable. Those who attended were educated on Firewise Plants and our current Fuels Abatement Project. We thank the Yarnell Fire Auxiliary for hosting and providing ice cream with all the toppings.

Knox Box® Program

We urge you to sign up for this program. How it works: homeowners or business owners may purchase a box containing a key to their premises; the box is placed next to the entry door of the building; If Yarnell Fire needs access to the building, rather than breaking in, we will be able to access the Knox Box with our master key, and retrieve the entry key. For information, please contact us: Chief Ben Palm or Denise Roggio, Admin. 928-427-6578. Visit yarnellfire.org

Shearer for Honorary Mayor:

We are excited to have a Mayoral Candidate for the upcoming honorary Mayor Fundraiser, which begins July 4^th. YFD Captain Jeff Shearer has decided to throw his hat into the mix, having Yarnell Fire Auxiliary Chair, Linda Ma, manage his campaign. The mayoral race raises funds for all the organizations involved and the Weaver Mountain Chamber of Commerce.  Save these dates to support the Shearer for Mayor Campaign: Sat. July 8, Pancake Breakfast; Sat. Aug 5, Chili/Cornbread Cook-off; Wed. Aug 9, Photo Booth/Pet Brunch/Treats; Sat Sept 9, “Drive In” Movie Night and games; Sat. Sept 30, “Sock Hop Happy Daze”. Details coming soon.

YFD NEWS:

We are still actively seeking candidates for the Yarnell Fire District Support Position. The role of Support Staff is to assist Firefighter personnel and the Chief with various tasks. Yarnell Fire District is a drug free environment and candidates could be subject to drug testing. There are three ways to apply: Print an application from our website, www.yarnellfire.org; visit the Administration Building or email Denise Roggio for an application: d.roggio@yarnellfire.com.

April 2017 Service Calls

Incidents: 22 – Average response time:  4.50 (4 minutes, 30 seconds)

EMS:  12                           Motor Vehicle Accident: 1                       Welfare checks: 0

Mutual Aid: 0                   Public Assists: 9                                         Smoke Checks: 0

Structure Fire: 0                Wildland Fire: 0

by Chief Ben Palm

Ice Cream Social at the Fire Station: Saturday, May 6^th:

As part of our Community Outreach for Wildfire Preparation Day, we invite you to attend the Ice Cream Social sponsored by the Yarnell Fire Auxiliary this Saturday, May 6 at 2pm at the Fire Station on Looka Way. Bruce Olson, Yarnell Fire Fuels Mitigation Supervisor and Judy Springer, Plant Ecologist at Northern Arizona University, will be sharing valuable information at this informal and fun gathering. Donations will be accepted for the Ice Cream. See you there!

Wildfire Outlook

At the time of this writing, the Sawmill Fire is growing steadily southeast of Green Valley, Arizona. May is promising to be breezy, hot and dry, increasing the risk in our area. Please be proactive in creating defensible space around the home and outbuildings. Please trim overgrowth, cut tall grasses and obtain an open burning permit for trash/brush burning. Note that fire pits must have a screen. Thank you for your cooperation!

Memorial Run – June 3rd

Time is flying! We are excited about the 4^th Annual Yarnell Memorial Run, Saturday, June 3^rd at the Yarnell Assembly of God. Registrations have nearly doubled compared to this time last year. Our sponsors are invaluable, and we thank them for the faithful support: Augie’s Prescott, Native Air, Xtreme Apparel, Swift Charities, an anonymous Gold Sponsor, Yarnell Community Presbyterian Church, Wickenburg Community Hospital, Stewart Hardware Wickenburg, Anita’s Cocina Wickenburg, Four Queens Las Vegas, Pelican Products; and our friends in Tombstone, AZ: Café Margerita, Harley Davidson, Big Nose Kate’s Saloon and Longhorn Steakhouse. We have the most amazing raffles, a 50/50 and the most improved course routes a runner could ask for. Our website tells the story and explains the organizations supported. Visit us at yarnellmemorialrun.com and facebook.com/yarnellmemorialrun. For information regarding participation, sponsorship or volunteering, call us at 928-427-6578. Denise will direct you to the right team leader.

YFD NEWS:

The YFD crew is growing, training and preparing. More applications for the Support Position are being reviewed. At this time we are completing our Pre-Disaster Plans for all of the businesses in Yarnell. YFD Training Center may be hosting an EMT Class in the fall. There is a minimum requirement of 4 students. If you or someone you know may be interested, please call Denise at 928-427-6578.

March 2017  Service Calls

Incidents: 29 – Average response time:  6.86 (6 minutes, 52 seconds)

EMS:  7                                Motor Vehicle Accident: 2                   Welfare checks: 0

Mutual Aid: 2                      Public Assists: 17                                   Smoke Checks: 0

Structure Fire: 0                   Wildland Fire: 3