Operations and Training

Operations

In 2006, the Yuba City Fire Department responded to a total of 6,120 calls for service, which included 333 fires and 4,595 calls for medical aid.

The Yuba City Police Dispatch Center handles all Fire Department dispatch responsibilities using a geo-based program to distribute emergency calls to the closest available units. All Yuba City engine companies and Chief Officer vehicles were outfitted with computers to convey emergency data and reduce emergency radio traffic. The emergency data consists of emergency calls in progress, availability of fire engines, location and type of emergency. Public Safety emergency dispatchers also have the ability to add notes or relay specific critical information regarding that emergency.

The Department continued its commitment to the specialty teams that were formed by personnel in recent years. The Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Team, Advanced Technical Rescue (ATR) Team, and Tactical Emergency Medical Services (TEMS) Team all participated in specialized training and medical support for Police SWAT operations (TEMS).

Yuba City maintained its strong commitment to the state mutual aid system. The Department houses an fire engine provided by the State Office of Emergency Services (OES) and responded to several major urban/wildland fires during a busy 2004 fire season. Yuba City personnel responded to forest fires in Butt, Madoc, Shasta, Placer and Yolo Counties on both local government and OES Strike Teams.

Training

Department personnel attended classes for certification as a Fire Officer, Chief Fire Officer, Fire Prevention Officer, and Fire Marshal. Additionally, Department personnel participated in classroom and operational training related to hazardous materials and weapons of mass destruction response. Many also attended various State Fire Marshal classes, including specialty training in fire prevention and fire investigation. Two individuals received special recognition in 2004. Battalion Chief Gary Garrisi received the destination of Certified Executive Fire Officer from the National Fire Academy, while Fire Prevention Manager Jim Mathews received the designation of Certified Fire Marshal from the Office of the California State Fire Marshal. Their accomplishments bring advanced leadership skills and knowledge to this Department.

Previously, the Yuba City and Sutter County Fire Departments jointly purchased equipment to decontaminate victims of a terrorist/weapons of mass destruction incident. The past year, both Departments trained on the equipment to assure that it can be deployed and made operational quickly to assure the safety and survivability of victims of a chemical, biological or radiological attack.

The Department continues to serves as the regional American Heart Association CPR Training Center. The Center provides the community comprehensive CPR and life-saving skills training. Yuba City firefighters also provide continuing education for Emergency Medical Technician certification. The Department provides CPR/First Aid training to approximately 439 people, who work for local organizations such as Yuba City Unified School District’s bus drivers, local doctor/dentist office staff and other health care professionals, day care providers and teachers.