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The FireGals Experience Rekindled My Spark
A firefighter confronts burnout and finds renewal in a community built for women on the front lines There are lots of things you are told when you think about venturing into the fire service, but the lasting effects that lack of sleep can have on...
Juggling Two Careers When One Never Truly Ends
Inspired by insights from PSPNET on the challenges of two-career households Two careers under one roof can sound like a success story — ambition, stability, teamwork. But for firefighter families, it often feels like a constant balancing act between two unpredictable...
Belonging, Fitting In, and the Compromises Firefighters Learn to Make
Have you ever wondered whether you belong, or whether you’ve just learned how to fit in? Research professor and author Brené Brown has a line that lands harder the longer you sit with it: the opposite of belonging is fitting in. It sounds simple, almost semantic,...
Whitepaper: OSHA Emergency Response Standard
From the first day at the firehouse, firefighters are barraged with a host of standard operating guidelines, standard operating procedures, acronyms that correspond to specific actions at fire and emergency scenes, forms that must be completed at medical calls—and of course, the fire department traditions that so often govern how things are done.
Whitepaper: 7 Policy “Hot Spots” for Fire Departments
From the first day at the firehouse, firefighters are barraged with a host of standard operating guidelines, standard operating procedures, acronyms that correspond to specific actions at fire and emergency scenes, forms that must be completed at medical calls—and of course, the fire department traditions that so often govern how things are done.
An Aspiring Clinician’s Immersion in Fire Service Culture
A therapist-in-training discovers purpose, perspective, and a profound respect for the fire service through an immersive experience If you had asked me in May 2024, when I began my master’s program in clinical counseling, what population I wanted to work with, I would...
Introducing the CSFA Fire Investigation Committee
On behalf of the California State Firefighters’ Association (CSFA), I am proud to announce the continued development and formal introduction of the CSFA Fire Investigation Committee, a statewide initiative established to strengthen and support the fire, arson, and...
ANNOUNCEMENTS
What the Latest PFAS Research Means for Us in the Fire Service
By David Santos, Colton FD As someone who has spent more than two decades in the fire service, I’ve read a lot of research about firefighter cancer risk. Some studies raise concerns. Others confirm what we already suspect. But every once in a while, a study comes out...
California State Firefighters’ Association Partners with Life Line Screening to Provide Preventive Health Screenings for Its Members
The California State Firefighters’ Association (CSFA) Board of Directors is proud to bring you a unique opportunity that supports both your well-being and the future of our association. By participating in this health benefit, you’re not only taking a proactive step toward your own wellness—you’re also helping CSFA thrive. For every scan performed, CSFA receives a $5.00 contribution to its fund, directly supporting programs and services that benefit our members.
Your health matters. So does our legacy. Let’s strengthen both—together!
Local Fire Departments to Receive $1.5 Million through the 2025 Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program
The application period will be open for three days only – from 12:00am ET on June 4 through 11:59pm ET on June 6. To be eligible to apply, departments must be over 50 percent volunteer, serve a population of 25,000 or less, have an annual revenue no more than $250,000, and be located in the U.S. and legally organized under state law. Grants can be used to fund a variety of equipment, including PPE, technology, communication devices, rescue tools, and more.
U.S. Senate Work on Fire Equipment Manufacturing Issues
U.S. Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Andy Kim (D-N.J.), serving as Chair and Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Disaster Management, have formally addressed concerns to the CEOs of REV Group, Oshkosh Corporation, and Rosenbauer America regarding significant delays and escalating costs in fire equipment manufacturing.
FY 2024 AFG Update
The FY 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Notice of Funding Opportunity is now available under Assistance to Firefighters Grants Documents | FEMA.gov The FY 2024 AFG application period opens Nov. 12, 2024 at 9 a.m. ET and closed on Dec. 20, 2024 at 5 p.m. ET....
LEGAL CORNER
Legal Corner: Medical Treatment Not Accepted by the Injured Worker
The California Constitution specifically states that the workers’ compensation laws mandate that in the event of a job-related injury the employer is to provide medical care to cure or relieve the effects of the job related injury.
HEALTH & MEDICINE
What the Latest PFAS Research Means for Us in the Fire Service
Researchers from the University of Arizona analyzed blood samples from more than 2,000 career firefighters across seven states, including California. Their goal was simple but important: identify what factors are associated with higher or lower levels of PFAS in firefighters’ blood. The results matter to every one of us.
Safeguard the Wellness of the Family Unit
Safeguard the Wellness of the Family Unit One of the greatest challenges First Responders face is keeping their families whole and healthy throughout their career. Because of the critical nature of their role, they are exposed to traumatic situations. Unfortunately,...
Be Mindful of Negative Thinking
We all experience emotions and events that are uncomfortable, painful, or traumatic. Those moments or circumstances often cause lingering thoughts and emotions that must be dealt with one way or another. At some point, we may engage in numbing behavior to put off...
Suicide Intervention
Many people are not sure what to do if they think someone they know might be thinking about suicide. Be direct. Ask the question. Let them know you care. In addition to this article, you can also watch a short video about suicide intervention. Go online:...
How to Build a Survivors Mindset with Psychological Tactics
By First Responder Wellness The art of surviving starts with having a survivor’s mindset. Look at survivors’ stories; their mental traits are a central part of what enabled them to endure their situations. If you have witnessed or experienced a traumatic event or have...
Community Risk Reduction
Winter Safe Heating Tips for Your Community
CSFA Community Risk Reduction Reported Gas Leak in a Structure The call comes in “Truck 101 reported gas leak in a structure.” These calls increase in winter months. While the warmth is welcome, this season also brings an increase in calls for gas odors, leaks, and...
Christmas Safety – Protecting Our Communities and Ourselves
CSFA Community Risk Reduction As we turn the corner from Thanksgiving to Christmas, many will start putting out Christmas decorations. Additionally, the holiday season is filled with celebrations from fire department parties and community parades to family gatherings...
Back In Black
CSFA Community Risk Reduction Black Friday Safety Tips Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving when holiday gift buying begins. Sales offering big discounts lure customers into stores, often beginning in the early hours of the morning. Why is it called Black...
Fall Back into Safety
Change Your Clocks, Change Your Smoke Detector Batteries CSFA COMMUNITY RISK REDUCTION It’s time to remind our communities to change their clocks this weekend “back” for daylight savings and when we do that it’s a good time to change our smoke detector batteries and...
“The Devil’s Breath is Returning”
CSFA COMMUNITY RISK REDUCTION I’d like to say Fire Season is on its way, but the truth is, it never left. Wildfire threats are now a year-round reality, and they’ve already hit us hard. As we brace for the arrival of the infamous Santa Ana and Diablo winds, conditions...
TRAINING & EVENTS
CSFA NorCal Fire Explorer Muster – April 26, 2026
The 2026 CSFA Fire Explorer Muster is a one-of-a-kind event tailored to ignite the passion within you. Geared towards 14-20-year-olds in existing Fire Explorer, Cadet, or Fire programs, this action-packed[...]
Citrus Heights, 95610 United States
CSFA SoCal Fire Explorer Muster – 2026
The 2026 CSFA Fire Explorer Muster is a one-of-a-kind event tailored to ignite the passion within you. Geared towards 14-20-year-olds in existing Fire Explorer, Cadet, or Fire programs, this action-packed[...]
Fontana, CA 92335 United States
AGENCY SPOTLIGHT
CSFA Agency Spotlight: Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue
Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue has been an integral part of the community for nearly a century, providing essential emergency services and ensuring the safety of its residents. Established in 1925, this year marks a significant milestone as the department celebrates its 100th anniversary.
CSFA Fire Academy Spotlight – Miramar Community College San Diego Ca.
The San Diego Miramar College Fire Academy offers an extensive training program for aspiring firefighters, leading to the California State Fire Marshal Firefighter I Certification. This certification, accredited by both IFSAC and ProBoard, is recognized nationwide and...
CSFA Chiefs Corner – Agency Spotlight San Francisco Fire Dept
The San Francisco Fire Department On any given day, the population of the City and County of San Francisco (the only city-county in California) reaches 1.5 million. The men and women of the San Francisco Fire Department pride themselves on being an “all hazards”...
If You Would Like to Spotlight Your Agency Email [email protected]
Sam DiGiovanna is a 40-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department, and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He is Director at Large with the California State Firefighters Association, Associate Director for the California Training Officers Association and a consultant for www.Lexipol.com
CSFA Agency Spotlight – The Orange County Fire Authority: Protecting a Dynamic and Growing Region
The Orange County Fire Authority: Protecting a Dynamic and Growing Region Covering nearly 600 square miles of coastline, bustling cities, suburban communities, and wilderness parks, Orange County is one of California's most diverse and densely populated regions. At...
The San Bernardino County Fire Department!
Stretching across over 20,000 square miles of mountains, deserts, and urban landscapes, San Bernardino County is the largest county in the United States. Its sheer size, combined with a mix of densely populated cities, rural communities, and vast wilderness, creates a unique set of challenges for emergency responders.
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CHIEFS CORNER
Home Safety: Even for Firefighters and their families, and a reminder to pass on to your neighbors
From the perspective of a firefighter, keeping your home safe means stopping fires before they start, managing those first critical moments if one does occur, and helping emergency crews reach you quickly. The following priorities frequently arise...
The Passing of Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
This is a tough way to begin 2026. Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna, a beloved leader, mentor, and friend, passed away on December 31, 2025, at 9:03PM, leaving behind his wife Janet, and a legacy of service and dedication to his profession and community. Chief DiGiovanna...
NFPA: December is a Leading Month for U.S. Home Fires
Christmas Day and Christmas Eve were the second and third leading days of the year for home cooking fires, respectively, in 2024. The holiday season is often touted as the most wonderful time of year, but it also presents an increased risk of home fires. According to...
Seasons of Becoming
This was sent to me and it hit home. Though it’s always a good time to show your love to your parents, with the holidays upon us, I thought this was in good timing. I’ve lost both my parents. Would love just one more hour with them. Read to the end as the last line of...
In Memory of Cal Fire Engineer Cory David Iverson
Cory David Iverson began his fire service career in 2008 as a volunteer firefighter with the Elfin Forest-Harmony Grove Fire Department in San Diego County. In 2009, Cory accepted an offer for a Firefighter I position with the Riverside Unit of CAL FIRE. During that...
THE CALIFORNIA FIRE SERVICE
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
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Chief’s Corner: Earned, Not a Given Path to Promotion
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CSFA Community Risk Reduction: It’s Your Fault If You Live in California
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CSFA Agency Spotlight: The Orange County Fire Authority
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CSFA Technology Spotlight: RadioMobile: Modernizing the Fireground
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Historical Society: America’s Fire Service History Part 3
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Remembering Chief Sam DiGiovanna
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Legal Corner: A Delay or Denial Can Create A Penalty
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Helpful Tips: Sump Pump/Water Backup Coverage – Why You Need It
CRACKYL
The FireGals Experience Rekindled My Spark
A firefighter confronts burnout and finds renewal in a community built for women on the front lines There are lots of things you are told when you think about venturing into the fire service, but the lasting effects that lack of sleep can have on your body and mind...
PENSION UPDATE
Pension Update
Here is a weekly round-up of news and opinion on the pension issue. Stay informed on this important issue and pass these on to neighbors and colleagues. CALIFORNIA NEWS CalSTRS announced that the state’s pension fund outperformed, ending the year with $341.4B...
CSFA PARTNERS
SUPPORT FIRST RESPONDERS
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VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER RESOURCES
FY 2024 AFG Update
The FY 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Notice of Funding Opportunity is now available under Assistance to Firefighters Grants Documents | FEMA.gov The FY 2024 AFG application period opens Nov. 12, 2024 at 9 a.m. ET and closed on Dec. 20, 2024 at 5 p.m. ET....
RESOURCES & LINKS
CALIFORNIA VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER RESOURCES
The commitee for volunteers provides a resource for the membership dealing with specific problems realtive to the volunteer fire service.
FIRE SERVICE GRANTS & FUNDING
Explore resources to identify federal grants and other innovative alternatives that can help provide funds for expenses sush as equipment, apparatus, training and salaries necessary to protest and serve communities.
HEALTH & MEDICINE
Safeguard the Wellness of the Family Unit
Safeguard the Wellness of the Family Unit One of the greatest challenges First Responders face is keeping their families whole and healthy throughout their career. Because of the critical nature of their role, they are exposed to traumatic situations. Unfortunately,...
Be Mindful of Negative Thinking
We all experience emotions and events that are uncomfortable, painful, or traumatic. Those moments or circumstances often cause lingering thoughts and emotions that must be dealt with one way or another. At some point, we may engage in numbing behavior to put off...
Suicide Intervention
Many people are not sure what to do if they think someone they know might be thinking about suicide. Be direct. Ask the question. Let them know you care. In addition to this article, you can also watch a short video about suicide intervention. Go online:...
How to Build a Survivors Mindset with Psychological Tactics
By First Responder Wellness The art of surviving starts with having a survivor’s mindset. Look at survivors’ stories; their mental traits are a central part of what enabled them to endure their situations. If you have witnessed or experienced a traumatic event or have...
Time to Interrupt Yourself – Self Talk
You Talkin to Me? It’s a Good Time to Interrupt Yourself! We all have an inner critic. At times, this little voice can be helpful and keep us motivated toward goals—like when it reminds us that what we're about to eat isn't healthy or what we're about to do may not be...
Bringing Moral Injury to Light
Article By: First Responder Wellness - https://www.firstresponder-wellness.com/ First responders make sacrifices to serve their communities, sometimes to the detriment of their own mental health. Mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and...