By Chief Ben Palm
HEADS UP FOR FIRE SEASON:
There were wildfires in and around our community in January; the conditions are extremely dry. Lack of rain reduces new plant growth; it also makes existing plant life more prone to ignition. Plants such as scrub oak, pine and creosote are highly flammable – more so in dry conditions. Staying Firewise is key: make sure you have defensible space around your home. Trim branches, cut grasses and remove the debris. Also, take advantage of the Coalition for Wildfire Adapted Communities events.
THE NEXT EVENT:
Join the food and informative fun! Southern Yavapai Fire Department, a Coalition member, is hosting a spaghetti dinner on Saturday, February 24th at 4pm. The suggested donation is $6 to cover the cost of food and beverages. SYFD Chief Kellie Brasher and YFD’s Bruce Olson will be explaining how preparation is the best way to protect against wildfires. SYFD is located at 9000 Magby Lane, Wilhoit, 86332, just one block east of Highway 89. Don’t miss the opportunities to socialized and learn. For info, contact Denise Roggio @ 928-427-6578.
YARNELL MEMORIAL RUN:
Mark your calendar for Saturday, June 2nd, 2018. The Memorial Run raises funds for the Eric Marsh Foundation, William H. Warneke Foundation and YFD. The Yarnell Fire Auxiliary has contracted with Startline Racing to manage this annual fundraiser. We’re excited about its expansion and new opportunities. Thanks to Augie’s Restaurant and Yarnell Community Presbyterian Church for their sponsorship pledges. The event details are on the website: yarnellmemorialrun.com. The auxiliary is seeking 25 volunteers, cash sponsors to pay expenses, In-Kind donations for raffles and participants to run! Contact Denise Roggio or Linda Ma: 928-427-6578.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT:
We are grateful to have YFD volunteer, Sharon Smith, on our team. Sharon joined us in early 2014, and is a dedicated EMT. She’s lived in Anthem, AZ for the past 15 years in a home custom built to suit her style. Sharon brings a happy demeanor when she’s on duty. As a long time Cardiovascular Technician for Arizona Heart, Sharon has a fabulous understanding of patient care. She loves life and is an avid fan of nature, outdoor activities and hiking. In fact, her favorite relaxing activity is cross-country skiing in Flagstaff. Sharon enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephews; she also loves spending time in the kitchen. Some of our staff can attest to what a great cook she is! Sharon, thanks for your faithful service to our community. We’re glad you’re part of the YFD family.
December 2017 Service Calls:
Incidents: 18 – Average response time: 3.44 (3 Minutes, 26 Seconds)
EMS: 14 Motor Vehicle Accident: 0 Welfare checks: 0
Mutual Aid: 2 Public Assists: 1 Smoke Checks: 1
Structure Fire: 1 Wildland Fire: 1 Rescue: 0
*NOTE: Mutual Aid is a separate category, not counted in total calls.
2017 Total Call Volume:
All Calls: 229 – EMS: 123 Wildfire: 13 Structure: 3 Motor Vehicle Accidents: 14
Welfare Checks: 12 Public Assists: 51 Smoke Checks: 7 Rescue: 1 Car Fire: 1 Rattlesnake: 2 Other/HazMat: 2 AVG Response time: 5 min. 8 sec.
**NOT INCLUDED IN TOTALS: Mutual Aid Provided: 9 Received: 1