These numbers represent from 1/1/24 to 2/3/24

1430

Fires

12158

Rescue/EMS

19586

Total Calls

162

On Duty Firefighters

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This past week your Kern County Firefighters, IAFF Local 1301 were able to participate in the #colorrun event at South Fork Middle School in Weldon. Your firefighters love spending time in the community and connecting with all those we serve. Thank you South Fork Middle School!! Can’t wait to see you next year!! ... See MoreSee Less

This past week your Kern County Firefighters, IAFF Local 1301 were able to participate in the #colorrun event at South Fork Middle School in Weldon. Your firefighters love spending time in the community and connecting with all those we serve. Thank you South Fork Middle School!! Can’t wait to see you next year!!Image attachmentImage attachment+1Image attachment
2 months ago

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Happy Easter!

Happy Easter

I want to thank Kern County Environmental Health and Waste Management for this sharps container. When disposing of needles, please use a plastic sharps container, coffee can, or hard storage item. ... See MoreSee Less

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The IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery is a one-of-a-kind addiction treatment facility specializing in PTSD for IAFF members – and IAFF members only – who are struggling with addiction, PTSD other related behavioral health challenges to receive the help they need in taking the first steps toward recovery. It is a safe haven for members to talk with other members who have faced or overcome similar challenges.

https://www.iaffrecoverycenter.com

Annual Fund-raising is Underway

It is time for our annual fund-raising drive.  We will be reaching out to Kern County residents and businesses in the coming weeks to raise money for local, worthy causes. We will also be sponsoring a Business Directory consisting of fire prevention articles, emergency phone numbers and advertisements from local concerned business owners.

Although Local 1301 has been raising money for charities this way for 26 years, there are always reasonable concerns that these solicitations by phone are part of a scam. We want to ensure our members and the public that calls the may receive in the next few weeks are in fact legitimate and have been authorized and approved by the Local 1301 Board of Directors.

We want to thank everyone for supporting us this year. If you would like to donate, please click the link below to donate.

501(c)(5)  #95-2480612

501(c)(3)  #95-3489994

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As you head to the polls today, your Kern County Firefighters-endorsed candidates are as follows. 
Each candidate selected has repeatedly proven their ability to work together and move Kern County forward. 

Kern County Board of Supervisors

District 1
Phillip Peters (R)

District 4 
David Couch (R)

District 5 
Kimberly Salas (D) 

California State Assembly 
Assembly District 35 
Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D)
Please celebrate safely. Utilize a designated driver, a ride share service or Designated Driver Inc. (661) 431-3854
It is with a heavy heart that we must announce the passing of our Brother, Bruce Wells. As many of you are aware he had a hard fought battle with cancer. The family is extremely grateful for the prayers and outpouring of support during this difficult time. 

Please click the link below for a message from our Fire Chief. 

https://kerncountyfire.org/15739/with-deep-respect-our-own-captain-bruce-wells-has-passed/
Save the Date and come celebrate Melissa’s Birthday with us!!
"On this Memorial Day, it is right for us to remember the living and the dead for whom the call of their country has meant much pain and sacrifice." - Lyndon Johnson
This Holiday Season we have teamed up for a food drive with Albertsons and other local organizations to help Seniors and Veterans for Christmas. Starting tomorrow, December 2nd you can help too by bringing non-perishable food or gift cards to The Station at 7900 Downing Ave, Suite D. Let’s make this food drive a huge successs!
Firefighter Mark Schmidt faithfully served the County of Kern for 17 years. Firefighter Schmidt lost his battle with job related cancer on November 27th. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Mark will always be part of our family and will not be forgotten.
We wish you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving! Today and everyday we are thankful for the families that support us.
Unincorporated Kern County, let your voices be heard today. Get out and vote to make public safety and other vital services the priority in your neighborhoods. Vote YES on Measure K!!!!
Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!
Take the fire hazard out of your jack-o’-lantern by lighting it with a glow stick. If you do use a real candle to light your pumpkin, a votive is safest. Place the pumpkin on a sturdy surface away from kids, pets, goblins, curtains and flammable objects, and blow the candle out before you leave the room.
This Halloween, have fun AND be safe. Stay on the sidewalk and off the road when going house to house. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far to the side as possible. #IAFFSafetyTips #IAFF
Did you know Measure K will be on the November Ballot to fund public safety needs like more sheriff deputies and firefighters?

Measure K also provides vital taxpayer protections and stringent citizen oversight of funds to ensure that your tax dollars are spent wisely and that over spending Sacramento politicians can no longer drain Kern County’s coffers.
 
Vote YES on Measure K!

👍 and Share!

Go to www.kerncountyfirefighters.org to learn more.
Congratulations to Division Chief Billy Steers on your promotion to Deputy Chief. We look forward to working with you and building a strong labor management relationship. 📷: @kern_county_fire
If you are out and about this evening at The Great Kern County Fair. Stop by our booth grab one of our famous Firehouse “Philly” sandwiches, a cold beverage and say hello to your local Kern County Firefighters. We are by the main gate.
Congratulations, to Deputy Chief Dionisio Mitchell on his promotion to Chief Deputy. We know our continued work will keep moving the department into the future. 📷: @kern_county_fire
“We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember…” - President George W. Bush
Kernville, come on out this Monday for an educational meeting on Measure K. County leaders as well #yourkerncountyfirefighters will be there to address your concerns. Help support public safety in Kern County. Kernville Community Building is located at 11447 Kernville Road.
Bear Valley Springs, please join #yourkerncountyfirefighters and county leaders for an educational workshop on Measure K. This is an opportunity to get your questions about the measure answered. The event is being held at the Whiting Center, 26940 Bear Valley Road. Help fund #yourkerncountyfirefighters and other vital services.
Please join #yourkerncountyfirefighters this Friday at the Buttonwillow Lions Den for a memorial lunch benefiting the Falk family. 100% of money raised will go directly to Captain Brian Falk’s family. Thank you Buttonwillow Lions Club for sponsoring the event and honoring our fallen brother. 1301 members please contact Engineer Ryan Gladden or Captain Ron Montecino for purchase.
Be advised that text messages that you may be receiving are not affiliated with Kern County Firefighters Local 1301 in any way and should be considered a scam.
Today members of our department and Kern County Firefighters Local 1301 are grieving the loss of another brother. Captain Brian Falk sadly passed away this morning while on duty. Captain Falk was hired by the department in 2002 and held the ranks of firefighter, engineer, and captain. On behalf of Local 1301’s board our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and members of our Kern County Fire Department.
Your #KernCountyFirefighters wish you a Happy and Safe 4th of July! 🇺🇸🇺🇸
“ I believe our flag is more than just cloth and ink. It is a universally recognized symbol that stands for  liberty, and freedom. It is the history of our nation, and it’s marked by the blood of those who died defending it.”  - John Thune.              📷: @brandon_a_barraza
Come on out to the wildfire preparedness fair today in Tehachapi! Located at the Golden Hills CSD at 21415 Reeves St. Your #KernCountyFirefighters are there barbecuing up some burgers and hotdogs. There are booths on site to provide information and fire equipment for the kids to see. Hope to see you there!
Today, local 1301 Directors, Engineers Brennan Hayes and Nick Young were honored to throw out the first pitch opening the season for Kern Valley Little League. Our commitment to the Kern River Valley doesn’t stop when our shift is over and we strive to help those we serve. Local 1301 was able to make a donation to the league that will help 240 kids on 24 teams. The league will be able to purchase equipment, uniforms, and most important of all, help cover the cost for those who can’t afford to play. We aren’t just firefighters we’re also community members and are happy to see our communities thrive. Let’s play ball!!!!
Happy Easter from your #KernCountyFirefighters!
When you have your wildland refresher on St. Patrick’s Day you dress accordingly…💪😂🍀
We wish everyone a safe and happy St. Patrick’s Day! Please be responsible and do not drink and drive.
Your #kerncountyfirefighters are at Whiskey Flat Days! Come out to learn about what we do, how to become a Kern County firefighter, learn about  The Station - Kern County Fire Fighters event center, or just to say hello! Kernville Chamber of Commerce
Happy Valentine’s Day from your #KernCountyFirefighters!
Come on out today to The Station - Kern County Fire Fighters event center! 7900 Downing Ave Suite D Bakersfield. Support local Children! Bakersfield Homeless Center Kern County Fire Department
We are saddened to hear of the on duty death of Captain Steve McCann.  Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers/sisters of @iafflocal1014 and @lacountyfd Our condolences to his family and friends.
🚨We need your Help!🚨

Recently fire fighters responded to a mobile home fire that spread into a mini storage facility. Some of what was damaged was toys that the Bakersfield Homeless Center had scheduled to give out. In an effort to replace what was lost your #KernCountyFirefighters and Kern County Fire Department have teamed up for a toy drive. New toys can be donated to any Kern County fire station starting this Friday the 11th - 14th. We will also be having a special drop off at The Station - Kern County Fire Fighters event center on Saturday February 12th. Please come by and support local children!
It’s been an awful start to the new year as multiple brothers have been lost in the line of duty. Our thoughts and prayers are with the @stocktonfirefighters as they mourn their brother who was shot and killed on an early morning call.
Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters of @iafflocal1014 and the family of our fallen brother.
Christmas tree fires are some of the deadliest home fires that fire fighters respond to. If you bring a live tree into your house, make sure to water it every day and do not leave the lights on when you are out of the house or asleep. #IAFFSafetyTips
Happy Thanksgiving from our fire family to yours! For those of us on duty today thank you for your dedication and sacrifices of time away from family
Your #KernCountyFirefighters advise you to cook with caution and pay attention in the kitchen this Thanksgiving. We wish you a happy and safe Thanksgiving! #IAFFsafetytips
This week is Crash Responder Safety Week (CRSW). Nearly every week, a first responder is killed while helping clear a roadway crash. Many more sustain life-altering injuries. Our members work tirelessly to save lives at traffic incident scenes as safely and quickly as possible. But we need motorists to do their part to protect responders by slowing down, moving over and staying alert when approaching traffic incidents. #CRSW #IAFF
Time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when you change your clocks for Daylight Saving Time . Press and hold – you should hear a loud beep if it is good. More than 400 people die each year in the United States from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. When you install smoke alarms, install carbon monoxide detectors.  #IAFF #IAFFSafetyTips
Halloween is super exciting for kids, but can also be very dangerous. On average, twice as many child pedestrians are killed while walking on Halloween compared to any other day of the year. Stay safe by staying VISIBLE: bring flashlights, glow sticks and reflective goodie bags, and add reflective tape to costumes. #IAFFSafetyTips #IAFF
Earlier today our law enforcement partners stood bold in the face of danger and in a senseless act of violence, a Deputy Sheriff was tragically killed. Another Deputy is currently being treated at a local hospital. We stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters of the Kern County Sheriffs Office and Kern Law Enforcement Association. Our thoughts and prayers are with the deputies families, friends, and loved ones.
Your #KernCountyFirefighters would like to wish you a Happy Independence Day!  As you celebrate this 4th of July, please remember that if you choose to light fireworks, make sure you are doing it in a safe and legal way.
Congratulations to our new Fire Chief Aaron Duncan. On behalf of the 1301 board we look forward to working with you on important issues that are ever present throughout our department. We must forge a strong labor/management leadership role so together we may lead this great department into the future. 

                                 David Nelson,
                  President Kern County Firefighters 

📷:Kern County Fire
Let us introduce you to an amazing young woman Hayliee.
 
Hayliee reached out to us to replace our barbeque as part of her Silver Award Project for Girl Scouts. She was moved upon hearing the theft, as she has many memories from her childhood around this barbecue and the positive impacts on our community.  

Many may not know that the Silver Award is the second-highest award she can earn as a Girl Scout Cadette.  To be successful, she must identify an area that her project can have a lasting impact, set goals, and develop a plan to make her project successful. She must also demonstrate leadership through the entire project, from development and fundraising to project completion. 

It has been a wonderful experience working with Hayliee on this project and we are thankful for the partnership and her desire to make a difference. 
Anyone willing to assist Hayliee in reaching her fundraising goals can do so by submitting donations in person at our office, payable to Kern County Firefighters Muster 
7900 Downing Ave Suite D
 or via PayPal by visiting 
www.kerncountyfirefighters.org
Our thoughts and prayers are with the men and women of the @lacountyfd and our brothers and sisters of @iafflocal1014
Today we honor all those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting our freedom and democracy. For us, it is a reminder to never forget and continue to honor our fallen service members. 

“Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.”- Mark Twain

Please have a safe Memorial Day. Your #KernCountyFirefighters are on duty and ready to answer the call.
When grilling this weekend remember to follow these easy safety tips:            
•Be sure to always have an adult supervising kids when the grill is on.
•Remove all flammable items that are near the grill.
•Be sure to keep fire safety tools around like fire extinguishers.
Today is International Firefighter Appreciation Day and we would like to say thank you to the 500 members that make up #YourKernCountyFirefighters. The last few days have been ever busy with two fires that burned almost 4,000 acres and a close call in the City of Delano, where a firefighter was hit by a moving vehicle. We are proud of each and everyone of you and your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. On behalf of your 1301 Board, Thank You! 

County of Kern, California Kern County Fire Department
Have a safe and Happy Easter!
Our thoughts and prayers are with Engineer Kyle Rutherford’s family, friends, and our brothers and sisters of @sac_metro_ff_association.
We wish everyone a happy St. Patrick’s Day! For everyone that is off duty or get the night off, please be safe and never drink and drive.
For smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10 year batteries check your smoke alarms when you change your clocks for Daylight Saving Time​. Press and hold – you should hear a loud beep if it is good. For smoke alarms with replaceable batteries change the batteries when you change your clock. #IAFF #IAFFSafetyTips
Two-thirds of home fire deaths result from broken smoke alarms. Check your smoke alarms when you change the clock this Sunday March 14th. #IAFF #IAFFSafetyTips
Before placing a child in the bath or getting in the bath yourself, test the water by moving your hand, wrist and forearm through the water. The water should feel warm, not hot, to the touch. #IAFFsafetytips
Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried. #IAFFsafetytips
Have a safe Super Bowl Sunday!
#iaffsafetytips
Your #KernCountyFirefighters work in dangerous environments everyday. We know the risks and train often to protect ourselves and the people we serve. Unfortunately in #Lamont, fire fighters encountered a situation we don’t normally deal with. Early Tuesday morning as station 51’s crew were on a call providing medical attention to an elderly female, engine 51 was struck by a bullet which shattered the driver side window.  Luckily no one was in the engine at the time of the shooting and no one was injured. The incident is under investigation and the suspect is still at large.
Physical fitness is paramount as our job is both physically and mentally challenging. On this #StayFitSaturday we honor Captain David Rosa of @longbeachfire engine 10. Captain Rosa was shot and killed while battling a structure fire June 25th 2018. Give it a try and honor his memory. @longbeachfirefighters
There is a common misconception that because the fire is out, you are out of danger. Off-gassing of hazardous compounds and known carcinogens continues to occur even after the production of visible smoke has stopped. 

#FightFFCancer #FFCancerMonth
🚨Public Safety Alert🚨

Today we are experiencing yet another reduction to public safety services. One of the only two Kern County Fire Department advanced life support fire stations, station 25 in #Buttonwillow, will not have a firefighter/paramedic on duty this shift as the writing on the side of the fire engine would lead you to believe. 

Over the last few months and possibly unbeknownst to the residents of County of Kern, California, fully staffing fire stations has become increasingly difficult. Fire stations have been left without adequate staffing or contracted services unfulfilled putting residents and firefighters at an increased risk during the unprecedented pandemic and heightened calls for service. 

Your #KernCountyFirefighters always strive to provide the best service possible to the public. As KCFD continues to be #underfunded it is impeding our ability to provide the service citizens deserve. KCFD has not internally trained a firefighter/paramedic since 2010 and has received very little interest in the open lateral firefighter/paramedic positions. Retention of our high quality firefighters continues to be a major problem. The department is unable to hire enough firefighters to keep up with the mass exodus to other career opportunities causing us to be #understaffed.
Kern County Fire Department is hiring for an upcoming academy. Apply today as this application period closes on January 29th. The above picture is exactly how it’s listed on governmentjobs.com, paramedics are encouraged to apply but is not required. Good luck everyone!              @rio_hondo_fire_academy @oxnardcollegefireacademy @mt.sac_fire_academy @verdugofireacademy @scrfa @chcfireacademy @theelcaminofireacademy @hancockpstcfire @palomarcollege @shastacollege @sacfiretech @bakersfieldcollege
Welcome to Week 3 of Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month! This week we will kick your knowledge into action. We know that cancer is a big issue facing the fire service, but you can prevent or limit your exposure to carcinogens. 

In Week 3 we address the best practices that should be followed on the fire ground, at the station and in your personal lives. They include preliminary exposure reduction, on-scene gross decontamination, clean cab concept and modifiable risk factors. #FightFFCancer #FFCancerMonth
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, What are you doing for others?” -Martin Luther King Jr.  #yourkerncountyfirefighters serving @yourkerncounty 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, make an opportunity to be of service to others.
Your #KernCountyFirefighters are pleased to announce a well deserved retirement. After 33 years Engineer Felix Lesaca has retired from the Kern County Fire Department. Please join us in congratulating him.  

Felix promoted to the rank of engineer in March of 2000 and for over 15 years he proudly served the city of #Maricopa.
We invite you to join us for Week 2 of Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month as we explore scientific research that identifies the link between occupational exposures and cancer rates among firefighters. Additionally, we will look at research on screening for cancer and exposure routes.

https://www.iaff.org/wp-content/uploads/FFCancer_Exposure.pdf

#FFCancerMonth #FightFFCancer
On National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the men and women of law enforcement for their tireless dedication to keeping us all safe.
Even though personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for firefighting activities, PPE does not completely eliminate the risk of exposure. Exposures can occur in all stages of firefighting, including knockdown and overhaul, and back at the station through contaminated PPE or equipment that may be off-gassing or through diesel exhaust. 

#FightFFCancer #FirefighterCancerMonth

https://www.iaff.org/wp-content/uploads/FFCancer_CarcinogenicExposures.pdf
A NIOSH study concluded that fire fighters have a 9% greater chance of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% greater chance of dying from cancer than the general US population. #FFCancerMonth #FightFFCancer                   https://www.iaff.org/wp-content/uploads/FFCancer_Cancer101.pdf
Our thoughts and prayers are with Captain Roque’s family and our brothers and sisters of the @losangelesfiredepartment and @uflaclocal112. Captain Roque lost his battle with COVID-19.
Fire fighter occupational cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service. In 2019, more than 75% of the names of fire fighters added to the IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial Wall of Honor in Colorado Springs, Colorado, were of members who died from occupational cancer.

In partnership with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN), the IAFF has designated January as Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month to provide fire fighters the necessary tools and guidance to develop life-saving protocols for cancer prevention and to support those with a cancer diagnosis within their departments.

Bringing increased public awareness to occupational cancer in the fire service will help generate greater legislative support for states and provinces to establish presumptive disabilities for all cancers affecting fire fighters. #FFCancerMonth #FightFFCancer Firefighter Cancer Support Network

https://www.iaff.org/wp-content/uploads/FFCancer_Cancer101.pdf
Have a safe and Happy New Year!🎊
If you can, we recommend staying off the road this New Year’s Eve. Ring in the New Year safely! #IAFFSafetyTips
Today we are proud to announce the first round of vaccines have begun for our members. The health and wellness of our members is our number one priority. We are thankful for the partnership with the County of Kern, California and Kern Medical ensuring that our members were a priority. Vaccine distribution will continue over the next three weeks so that all members can be vaccinated.

California Professional Firefighters
Merry Christmas from your #KernCountyFirefighters! 🎄
We all want to stay warm, but we respond to more home fires in the winter months. Use space heaters cautiously and according to the guidelines provided with the equipment. #IAFFsafetytips
Did you know that Thanksgiving Day is the leading date for home cooking fires? Follow these tips to stay safe. #IAFFsafetytips
On this day we honor the 18 million veterans across this great nation. Their sacrifice, dedication and commitment is second to none. Among our members, each branch of the military is represented and every day they continue to serve without hesitation. On behalf of the nearly 500 members of the Kern County Firefighters Association, thank you for your service to our country.
Two-thirds of home fire deaths result from broken smoke alarms. Check your smoke alarms when you change the clock. #IAFF #IAFFSafetyTips
On #Halloween, be extra careful about traffic. Remind trick-or-treaters to stay on the sidewalks and away from cars. #IAFFsafetytips #makesafehappen
Be seen on #Halloween with flashlights and reflective fabrics. #IAFFSafetyTips #MakeSafeHappen
Avoid a real scare this #Halloween! Make sure to keep flames away from decorations and costumes, and use battery-operated lights where ever possible! #iaffsafetytips
#KernCountyFirefighters IAFF Local 1301 proudly endorse Frank Lima for IAFF General Secretary Treasurer.   Lima for GST Team 10th Frankie Lima California Professional Firefighters #limaforgst
Good morning from #yourkerncountyfirefighters.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Firefighter Jason Cortez, especially his two young children. Our deepest condolences to our brothers and sisters of the @sffdpio and @sffdlocal798
This morning before crews from 5813C went back out on the line they got a visit by therapy dogs. Pictured is Kerith and Engineer Mike Perry. Engineer Perry is an avid dog lover and on days off helps train dogs at the national search dog foundation. He has strived for 6 years to bring the search dog program back to the Kern County Fire Department.
Today is the day we, the brotherhood of the International Association of Firefighters, honor our fallen brethren and traditionally place the names of those firefighters who have fallen in the line of duty on our Memorial Wall in Colorado Springs, CO. 
•
Unfortunately, due to the ongoing Covid-19 Pandemic, the ceremony will be held virtually this year. Your Kern County Firefighters invite you to join us from your homes, the link to the livestream is in our bio. 
•
We would especially like to honor those from the Kern County Fire Department and Local 1301 who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our community.
George McKenzie
Hershel L.Morris
James E. Delanty 
Harold A. Leach
Wayne Stanturf
Tom Cotter
Mike Audap
Donald E. Moore
Earl L. Hilliard 
Robert Chollman 
Harold R. Elliot
Philip S. Gray
Grant G. Young 
Michael L. Heffner 
Brian D. Massey
Thank you for your service, may you rest in peace. 🇺🇸
•
#IAFFWallOfHonor #YourKernCountyFirefighters
Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s Fallen Firefighter Memorial Ceremony will be held virtually. Please join us September 19 at 11AM MT as we remember our fallen Brothers and Sisters. 
#YourKernCountyFirefighters #RememberTheFallen
#IAFF
On 09/11/2001 the United States Of America was viciously attacked. 72 Law Enforcement Officers, 55 Military Personnel and 343 Firefighters lost their lives selflessly putting themselves in harms way to defend, protect and attempt to save thousands of American and international citizens. The loss of life that day was truly terrible, but the lives saved by our heroes is incalculable. 
On this 19th anniversary of that terrible day let us pause to remember our honored dead. Let us not dwell on the evil acts perpetrated by cowards, but be grateful for the sacrifice of the brave men and women who rushed in to not only do their job, but go above and beyond the call of duty. Let us remember the feeling of brotherhood and solidarity that brought our nation together in the days and weeks following 9/11. Let us pass along to our children our memories of that day so that we may truly Never Forget. 🇺🇸
With red flag warnings in the Kern County mountains and the typical increase in traffic due to people traveling, your #KernCountyFirefighters want you to have a #safe and Happy Labor Day. 
There are still 58 Local 1301 members out of county on large fires around the state, while stations here in Kern are fully staffed. Your fire fighters are stepping up and working to keep you safe, please help us by being safe too.
Happening today!! Come on out to get some delicious BBQ and support the Kern Secret Witness program. Thank you to all the sponsors that made this possible.
Here’s a huge “THANK YOU!” to Smith's Bakeries for donating 1,700 cookies to this Thursday’s drive thru BBQ benefitting Kern Secret Witness!
We all couldn’t make this fundraiser possible if it wasn’t for the help from our local businesses! 

See you all Thursday 11am-2pm on the corner of Truxtun and L! 🚓🚒👍🏼
Fire activity in the state has exploded. We are now in preparedness level 5, which means we are experiencing so many major incidents that there is potential to exhaust all agency resources. More #KernCountyFirefighters are being deployed this morning on a type 3 strike team 5031C. We will always answer the call and do what we can to help. Please don’t just thank firefighters, instead make sure fire departments are always fully funded. This is the best way to ensure the safety of the public and our firefighters.
Come on out and join #yourkerncountyfirefighters and local law enforcement agencies on the corner of L and Truxton Ave for a BBQ lunch. Enjoy a Tri-Tip sandwich, chips and a cookie. All proceeds will benefit the Kern County Secret Witness Program. We’ll see you out there!
Your #KernCountyFirefighters have been deployed to the #LakeFire in Lake Hughes just North of Santa Clarita. The department is sending 5 type 1 engines a strike team leader and assistant. Strike Team 5028B consists of E26 (Lost Hills), E33 (McFarland), E53 (Old River), E55 (Tejon), E65 (Rosedale), Battalion 1C and 3C. This is a type 2 or “Bravo” strike team that has 17 fire fighters total.
We are saddened to hear of the tragic loss of a firefighter assigned to the #StagecoachFire. Details are still not available but we send our condolences to all involved.
We appreciate when local media reports an unbiased article and not just one side of the story. Your #KernCountyFirefighters will continue to inform the communities we proudly serve of threats to public safety as soon as we see an imminent attack. Without the public emailing and calling the BOS we are confident the plan to brown out stations would still be on the table. Thank you for all the support! 

https://www.bakersfield.com/news/fire-station-brownouts-to-be-avoided-as-county-dips-into-reserves/article_809a3450-dc29-11ea-a3bf-db6dbfc8b1f8.html
Here we have it another KGET - TV 17 Bakersfield sponsored one-sided hit piece on the public safety personnel protecting our county residents.
 
“County supervisor Mike Maggard slams the county firefighter’s union for public confusion over how the county’s new budget affects the fire department.”#FakeNews
 
Fact, county firefighters received via e-mail a proposal and request from Chief Human Resources officer Devin Brown on 07/23/2020 at 09:58 am. This e-mail states:
 
Good morning Stacie and David,
 
The County is proposing to move forward with the attached plan for station brownouts effective October 1, 2020. We would like to schedule a meeting to discuss the proposal and the impacts it will have on your membership as soon as possible. Please let me know when you have time available in the next week or so and I will set up a virtual meet and confer.
 
Sincerely,
 
Devin Brown
 
Fact two, county firefighters received again via e-mail on 08/04/2020 at 12:16 pm a request from Chief Human Resources Officer Devin Brown requesting to cancel the meeting set for that afternoon to discuss the brownout proposal.
 
Stacie,
 
We are holding off with the proposal for now, so we can cancel today’s meeting. Thanks.
 
Devin
 
Sent from my iPhone
 
This cancellation request arrived on the heels of our CAO Ryan Alsop, emphatically denouncing, in public session any existence of a proposal. What is the truth? Did the board know of this proposal? Did the CAO know of this proposal? If not as stated, then did the Chief Human Resources Officer take independent action without anyone's knowledge? Doubtful.
 
Public Safety has been under attack since the arrival of Mr. Alsop, his first action as the CAO was an attempt to decrease staffing at several stations from three firefighters to two firefighters on each engine. This was swiftly defeated by our association as well as the public response to having short-staffed fire engines. Today it is browning out fire stations.
 
Supervisor Maggard went on to say in his slam; “the firefighters are only fearmongering because they want more money”. He is one hundred percent correct. We want the fire department funded properly to allow us to protect the community properly. We want the board to use the same power and authority to fund the fire department that they used when voting over the last ten years to accept these contracts for cities that do not cover the costs of providing service. The same power they used when voting to delay pursuing cost recovery from the cities.

We are simply doing our job representing our membership and reinforcing our commitment to the communities we are sworn to protect.

Thank you again to the residents who took the time out of their day to have their voices heard and change the course of the direction our county administrators were taking. We will continue to need the public support as public safety is still under attack.
 

https://www.kget.com/kern-county-in-depth/kern-county-in-depth-county-budget-issues-amid-the-coronavirus-pandemic/
Engine 42, 41, 45, Truck 41, USAR 61, 52 and Helicopter 408 responding to report of 2 individuals stuck on a rock in middle of river. This is the second rescue in 2 days. Your #KernCountyFirefighters want to remind you that the Kern River is dangerous and we recommend you stay out unless you are rafting with an experienced guide and ALWAYS wear a life jacket.

UPDATE: Both individuals were rescued by hoist successfully by KCFD Helicopter 408.
💥Announcement💥

We would like to share our sincerest appreciation to the residents within our community who have reached out in support of our department. We are happy to report that today’s scheduled meeting with the County Administrators Office regarding their plan to brown out fire stations was cancelled. This is an important moment for us, continuing to be able to provide and care for you and your loved ones in emergency situations. Maintaining firefighters on fire apparatus to respond as quickly as possible will always be one of our goals in serving our community. We still have a long road in front of us and we continue to need the public’s support, but we are happy with this small victory. We will continue to keep you informed on what is happening with public safety and you can always sign up to receive informational emails from us at www.kerncountyfirefighters.org Thank you for your support!

UPDATE: As of 9:49 pm Truck 55 (Tejon) is back in service.
Yesterday evening Kern County Fire deployed a type 3 strike team to the #PondFire near Creston. Engines 324 (McKittrick), 335 (Woody), 345 (Edison), 356 (Lebec), 376 (Kernville) with a strike team leader and a STL assistant responded. As of this morning the fire is 10% contained and 1550 acres.  Evacuations are in effect. 

When a strike team gets deployed emergency callbacks happen so fire stations in Kern get back filled. Yesterday 2 Battalion Chief, 5 Captain, 5 Engineer, and 5 Firefighter positions needed to be filled.  Currently having over 60 vacant positions many fire fighters are already forced to work extra shifts. Because people are already working or needing important time home with family it is becoming more difficult to back fill fire stations during an emergency. These concerns were expressed to the Board of Supervisors by Chief David Witt and Local 1301, unfortunately our concerns seem to have fallen on deaf ears.
💥Public Comment Requested💥

Public Safety is under attack! The 2020-2021 Fire Department budget includes un-funding firefighter positions and un-staffing fire stations. Despite nearly 46 million dollars in carry forward from last year and over 175 million dollars in reserves, the county CAO still feels it is necessary to cut emergency services. Cutting public safety services to county residents while filling up savings accounts is irresponsible. Please stand with your #KernCountyFirefighters and let the BOS know you do not want cuts to public safety by emailing publiccomment@kerncounty.com 
Thank you!

The Board of Supervisors will meet ‪on Monday, August 3, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.‬ in closed session to receive public comment for the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 recommended budget. Here is how you can voice your concerns:

1. Preferred option: submit your comment via email to publiccomment@kerncounty.com. Please include your name and clearly indicate this is for the meeting on August, 3rd PM session in regards to recommended 2020-21 budget.
2. Other options:
• Call (661) 868-3640 to leave a voicemail of no more than two minutes in length. Please
state and spell your name at the beginning of your message and clearly indicate this is for public comment on the recommended 2020-21 budget. Do not leave your phone number on the voice message since these messages are heard in public session.

https://itsapps.kerncounty.com/clerk/minutes/bosagenda/2435561/2435575/2435587/2435624/2435830/FY%202020-2021%20Recommended%20Budget%20Discussion2435830.pdf

Comments must be in by 4pm Sunday.
🚨Preparing for a COVID-19 economy🚨

Your #KernCountyFirefighters were once again successful in bringing money into the Kern County Fire Department to help off set costs. This time we were awarded $274,636 dollars in a Assistance to Firefighters Grant.
This round of AFG grant funds are specifically for fire departments to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) fire fighters and EMS personnel need to respond to suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19. Over the years Local 1301 has helped secure millions of dollars in grant funding to protect public safety in Kern County.
California Professional Firefighters International Association of Fire Fighters
Team 10th
During the COVID-19 pandemic families are spending a large amount of time in their backyard. Your #KernCountyFirefighters want you to be safe so please follow these #SafetyTips:
* If you don’t have a fenced yard, teach your child the boundaries. Always have a responsible person supervise outdoor play.
* Check your yard for dangerous plants. If you are unsure about any of the plants in your yard, call your local poison help line.
* Teach your child never to pick and eat anything from a plant, no matter how good it looks, without your permission.
* If you use pesticides or herbicides on your lawn or garden, read the instructions carefully. Don’t allow children to play on a treated lawn for at least 48 hours.
* Never allow your child to play unattended near traffic.
* Chemicals, cleaners, gas, car fluids, pesticides and fertilizers can be poisonous.
* Keep all doors and gates leading to the pool locked at all times.
* Keep the pool area dry and free of all sharp objects.
* Never leave your kids alone at the pool. Keep a close eye on them at all times.
* Be sure to always have an adult supervising kids when the grill is on.
* Remove all flammable items that are near the grill.
* Be sure to keep fire safety tools around like fire extinguishers.
As public pools remain closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, parents are bringing the summer water fun home for their family. Big box stores and online retailers report that inflatable and small plastic pools are a hot commodity as people look to stay cool at home this summer. 

Your #KernCountyFirefighters want you to be safe so please never leave young children near pools – no matter how small – unsupervised. #IAFFsafetytips
Today we recognize FireMedic Hanner who recently resigned from the Kern County Fire Department. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the citizens of the County of Kern,. Firefighter/Paramedic Andrew Hanner was assigned to Station 58 in Pine Mt. Club, one of two ALS stations in the department. He has accepted a Firefighter/Paramedic position with the Los Angeles County Fire Department and takes 7 years of training and experience with him. The KCFD now only has 4 Firefighter Medics (and 5 Engineer Medics) staffing the 9 ALS assignments in the department causing hundreds of hours of forced overtime.  Chronic low morale, lack of employer support by County leadership, and no stable plan for the departments Medic Program drove him to leave where he could regain stability for his family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with our brothers and sisters at Kern Law Enforcement Association as they mourn the loss of their brother Deputy Martin Rodriguez.
46 million homes are now considered to be in the wildfire zone. Be prepared all year-round for a potential wildfire. #IAFFSafetyTips
Kern County’s disturbing 4th of July stats:  

- 180 Abandoned Emergency calls
- 147 Abandoned Admin. calls
- 1,784 Total Emergency calls

While other local fire departments increased resources and added engines, our Kern County Fire Department was unable to provide ample protection during the expected surge of 911 calls. This is a direct result of being  #Underfunded and #Understaffed by the County of Kern,. It is unacceptable that hundreds of citizens called 911 for help, and no one came to their aid due to a lack of KCFD resources. We expect more stories to surface in coming weeks that will further expose the failure of County leadership and THEIR decision to intentionally underfund its fire department. 

We want to give a shoutout to our dispatchers, firefighters, and ambulance personnel who tried their very best to protect our County in a difficult situation.
Your #KernCountyFirefighters would like to wish you a Happy Independence Day! As you celebrate this #4thofJuly please remember that if you choose to light fireworks make certain you live in an area where it’s legal and purchase Safe and Sane fireworks from approved vendors.
Happening now, structure fire in #frazierpark with a burn victim. Getting the appropriate number of resources and personnel on scene are essential to good outcomes on the fire ground. If planned brownouts occur it will have detrimental effects on how we operate and will delay response times to the incident.
Your #KernCountyFirefighters are once again saying goodbye to another highly trained firefighter. Firefighter/Paramedic Ian Crook has recently resigned from the Kern County Fire Department and has accepted a Fire/Medic position with the Daly City Fire Department. Ian has been a member of our department for 2 years and was recently assigned to Station 58 in #PineMountainClub, one of two Advanced Life Support stations in County of Kern, Ian takes his training and experience in Paramedicine and Hazardous Materials, as well as his Bachelors degree to his new department. With looming pay cuts (now imposed pay cuts) and uncertain financial stability, Ian decided that for his family he must move on. Ian we wish you a long happy career with Daly City and know that you will be a valued member of your new department. Firefighter/Paramedic Ian Crook is one of 59 resignations since 2016.
 
#KernCountyFighters  #HazMat   #Paramedic   #KernFirst #KernCountyFire 
 
#IfItsCoolItsFromKern  #ProtectPublicSafety   #WeAreKernCounty
 
#GroundedAndBoundless
Seven years ago today, 19 members of the Prescott Granite Mountain Hotshots made the ultimate sacrifice while fighting the Yarnell Hill fire in Arizona. Today we pause to honor their memory. 

Andrew Ashcraft, 29
Robert Caldwell, 23
Travis Carter, 31
Dustin DeFord, 24
Christopher MacKenzie, 30
Eric Marsh, 43
Grant McKee, 21
Sean Misner, 26
Scott Norris, 28
Wade Parker, 22
John Percin Jr., 24
Anthony Rose, 23
Jesse Steed, 36
Joe Thurston, 32
Travis Turbyfill, 27
William Warneke, 25
Clayton Whitted, 28
Kevin Wyojeck, 21
Garret Zuppiger, 27

P.C. to KPHO
🔥🔥LAST DAY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT🔥🔥
Attention Kern County Residents:

This Tuesday the Kern County BOS is going to vote on cuts to your first responders. Pay cuts to firefighters and fire station closures are possible. 

#KernCountyFirefighters cannot attend the BOS meeting in person to voice opposition. Tomorrow June 30th, 2020 local 1301 members and their families cannot look them in the face and fight against the defunding of public safety. 

That is why we need your help! In the picture provided is the process to call in or email your comments to the Board of Supervisors during the June 30th meeting. Your comments can be read during public comment but must be in by 4pm today. The agenda item for cuts is number 25 and is in the morning session meeting. Please reference agenda item 25.

Please help us by voicing your opposition of the defunding of #PublicSafety and cuts to firefighters. Thank you.

Email
publiccomment@kerncounty.com
In the County of Kern, California they claim to treat their military employees well.  But, actions speak louder than words.  One of our firefighters was recently punished for serving his #militaryorders and was held back in pay steps while all others with the same hire date received their steps as scheduled.  This is a violation of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).  While we gave the County of Kern every opportunity to correct this error, they stood their ground claiming that the situation was handled appropriately.  It was not until the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) got involved that true resolution has NOW been achieved.  Our member has now been placed at the appropriate step with back pay.  The attacks on your Kern County Firefighters truly have no boundaries, and Local 1301 is doing everything in our power to protect those who protect you.     
Thank you Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve for assisting us with righting a wrong. 
Thanks Devin Brown (Kern County Chief Human Resource Officer) for nothing.  
#SupportThoseWhoServe
#DoingTheRightThingShouldntBeThatHard

23ABC Bakersfield
BakersfieldNow
The Daily Independent
Taft Midway Driller
High Desert News
🚨🚨URGENT PLEASE SHARE🚨🚨
Attention Kern County Residents:

This Tuesday the Kern County BOS is going to vote yes or no on a $3 million dollar cut to your first responders.

That's your tax dollars 

#KernCountyFirefighters cannot attend the BOS meeting in person to voice opposition. On June 30th, 2020 local 1301 members and their families cannot look them in the face and fight against cuts to Public Safety. 

That is why we need your help! In the link provided is the process to call in or email your comments to the Board of Supervisors during the June 30th meeting. Your comments can be read during public comment or specifically to item 25 of the agenda.

Please help us by voicing your opposition of the defunding of #PublicSafety and cuts to firefighters. Thank you.

Email
publiccomment@kerncounty.com

https://www.kerncounty.com/home/showdocument?id=4204

BakersfieldNow 23ABC Bakersfield Bakersfield Tuff Jeff Platt - Eyewitness News
💥💥WE NEED YOU💥💥
Kern County Residents: 

The Kern County Board of Supervisors are voting to cut firefighter pay and benefits and voting to defund firefighter positions on Tuesday June, 30th. Please contact your supervisors to let them know this is unacceptable and the safety of citizens should come first. 
What you need to do:
1. Find your district in the picture.
2. Locate the contact information below for your district supervisor and call or email them. We have provided a script for you to use.

Thank you!
Local 1301

District 1
Mick Gleason
(661) 868-3650
district1@kerncounty.com 

District 2
Zack Scrivner 
(661) 868-3660
district2@kerncounty.com

District 3
Mike Maggard
(661) 868-3670
district3@kerncounty.com

District 4
David Couch
(661) 868-3680
district4@kerncounty.com

District 5
Leticia Perez
(661) 868-3690
district5@kerncounty.com

Draft Letter to County Supervisor:

To My Kern County District Supervisor,

I am writing to you on behalf of Kern County Firefighters. I understand that is the CAO’s intention to impose a contract upon our firefighters that will effectively cut cost at the expense of cutting firefighter pay. I cannot support this action for some of the following reasons:

-Many firefighters have already taken their years of experience and the county’s training investment to other agencies for higher pay.
-Many more firefighters can be expected to do the same should you vote to impose this pay cut upon them.
-An independent fact finder determined that our firefighters are underpaid compared to similar agencies in this state. 
-I expect a professional and effective fire service to protect my family and this would be a step in the wrong direction for providing this to me. 
-As a tax payer and resident of your district I have paid for and expect high quality service that will not be provided by continuing to make cuts to the firefighters. 
-I couldn’t expect firefighters to provide the same services to my community that they have after 12 years of contract battles, that have not even offered a cost of living adjustment, and now a looming pay cut. With fire insurance costs soaring, one thing we don’t need less of is fire protection. 

We depend on our firefighters everyday, especially during fire season, and now during a pandemic and I stand with them. Please vote against imposing this unfair contract upon them.

In solidarity with our firefighters,
🚨🚨SHARE SHARE SHARE🚨🚨
Attention Kern County Residents:

Of course CAO Ryan Alsop and Human Resources Director Devin Brown would take the opportunity to impose their proven unfair Last Best and Final offer while COVID-19 protocols are in place and #KernCountyFirefighters cannot attend the BOS meeting in person to voice opposition. On October 11th 2019 the County of Kern released the recommendations of the impartial fact finder for the first time, to wait this long and until the members of local 1301 and their families cannot look them in the face and voice justified concerns is cowardly. That is why we need your help. In the link provided is the process to call in or email your comments to the Board of Supervisors during the June 30th meeting. Your comments can be read during public comment or specifically to item 25 of the agenda. Please help us by voicing your concerns of the defunding of #PublicSafety and cuts to firefighters. Follow the instructions in the link to the document to provide public comment to the Board of Supervisors during COVID-19 restrictions. Thank you.

https://www.kerncounty.com/home/showdocument?id=4204
Early this morning your #kerncountyfirefighters were requested to help battle the #springsfire in neighboring Tulare County. Station response areas are not affected as additional personnel have been called back on overtime to fill vacancies created by the outgoing strike team. Even with fire season starting to ramp up, the ongoing #covid-19 pandemic and the loss of highly trained firefighters to other agencies your #kerncountyfirefighters will continue to answer the call.
INCIDENT: Baker Fire
Originally came out as a structure fire but units are on scene of a grass fire within a solar field near
#Rosamond. Solar power equipment can be an increase risks for your #KernCountyFirefighters.
Working structure fire in Delano with firefighters on scene.
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