The Front Lines

Wildfire Response Will Remain A Priority in State Budget Revision

Wed, 13 May 2020 00:00:00 -0700

Governor Gavin Newsom has made it clear that wildfire preparedness and response will remain a critical priority, even as the state faces a budget hole caused by the SARS-Cov2 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Confronting Wildfire Season - The New "New Normal"

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 00:00:00 -0700

Even without the COVID-19 outbreak, California’s firefighters would be bracing for a long, hot summer. The coronavirus has made a bad situation that much worse.

CPF Fire Wire: COVID-19 Fire and EMS Update

Wed, 11 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0700

As medical responders, firefighgters are on the front lines in the coronavirus outbreak. CPF President Brian Rice speaks with CPF's Health and Safety Director Mike Feyh about how the outbreak affects personnel on the front lines and precautions they can take to stay safe. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO CPF FIRE WIRE.

CPF Fire Wire - Personal Exposure Reporting

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 00:00:00 -0700

It only takes a few minutes, but it can make a big difference if you get a job-related illness: Personal Exposure Reporting. On CPF Fire Wire, CPF President Brian Rice talks to two firefighters who faced death from job-related illness about their experiences and the importance of exposure reporting. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO CPF FIRE WIRE.

CPF President's Message: A Time for Vigilance

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 00:00:00 -0700

From underhanded anti-firefighter bureaucrats to anti-retirement hard liners, California firefighters are confronted with a systematic effort to demean, discredit and weaken the fire service.READ THE MESSAGE FROM CPF PRESIDENT BRIAN RICE.

Fallen Firefighters Honored in Moving Sacramento Ceremony

Sat, 29 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0700

The 16th Annual California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony, held Saturday, September 29, 2018, recognized 37 California firefighters who have died in the line of duty.

CPF President: Community Paramedics Will Aid Vulnerable Patients

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0700

Community paramedicine can provide better outcomes for some at-risk patients and relieve ER overcrowding. CPF’s AB 3115 will make it available to fire departments statewide. CPF President Brian Rice writing at CalMatters.org

Healing Our Own: Stand Down for Suicide Awareness

Wed, 12 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0700

This week (Sept. 10-14), fire departments are urging stations to stand down for suicide awareness. Los Angeles Co. Fire and LA County Firefighters Local 1014 have put together a video and tools to help get the conversation started in the firehouse. Break the silence ... break the stigma.

LODD: Contra Costa Co. Fire Captain Peter Aliotti

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0700

The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and Contra Costa County Firefighters Local 1230 are saddened to announce the death of Fire Captain Peter Aliotti in the line of duty.

LODD: Redding Fire Inspector Jeremy Stoke

Fri, 27 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0700

Redding Firefighters Local 1934 is saddened to announce the line of duty death of Fire Inspector Jeremy Stoke. Brother Stoke lost his life on the front lines battling the Carr Fire. MEMORIAL SERVICE, APPARATUS INFORMATION

LODD: CAL FIRE Heavy Equipment Operator Braden Varney

Sat, 14 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0700

CAL FIRE Local 2881 and CAL FIRE are saddened to announce the line of duty death of Heavy Equipment Operator Braden Varney. Brother Varney died while fighting the Ferguson Fire near Yosemite.

A Message to Long Beach Firefighters

Tue, 26 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -0700

In the wake of the tragic loss of Long Beach Fire Captain David Rosa -- gunned down while doing his job responding to a fire -- CPF President Brian K. Rice offers a message of solidarity with Long Beach Firefighters Local 372

Updated CPF Mobile App Now Available for iOS

Mon, 16 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0700

CPF's award-winning mobile application -- CA Professional Firefighters -- has been completely revamped with new features, including a direct connection to CPF's Personal Exposure Reporting

CPF Firevision - IAFF 100th Anniversary

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -0700

On February 28th, 2018, leaders of IAFF chartered affiliates from the U.S. and Canada gathered in Washington, D.c. to mark the 100th anniversary of the International Association of Fire Fighters, celebrating the men and women who paved the way for improvements in the lives and working conditions of all professional firefighters for years to come.

CPF Firevision - Mutual Aid 2018

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0700

The 2017 fire season underscores the critical importance of maintaining California's state-of-the-art mutual aid system.

Firefighter Apprenticeship Gets Big Boost in Gov's Proposed Budget

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0700

Thanks to a strong push from CPF, the new state budget allocates millions to bolster apprenticeship program, including firefighter training provided by Cal-JAC

California Professional Firefighter Winter Edition Online

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0700

The latest edition of The California Professional Firefighter is in your mailbox and online at www.cpfnewspaper.org. Read about California's evolving disaster threat and the challenges firefighters face meeting it. Also see photos from 2017 California Firefighters Memorial and read about CPF efforts to address firefighter behavioral health.

CPF Firevision - 2017 California Firefighters Memorial

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -0700

The 2017 California Firefighters Memorial honors 31 fallen heroes, who join over 1,300 names enshrined on the Memorial Wall in Sacramento.

Advocacy: Tell the Governor to Fund California's Apprenticeship Programs

Fri, 03 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -0700

Massive mutual aid responses in California have become increasingly common, as the risk from wildfire, flooding and other natural disasters grows more ominous. In order to mitigate these threats, our firefighters need to be able to work together effectively without jurisdictional restrictions. Submit a letter of support for standardized, apprenticeship training funding today.

2017 California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony

Sat, 30 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -0700

Firefighters, families and grateful citizens will once again gather in Sacramento's Capitol Park for the solemn task of adding 31 new names to the California Firefighters Memorial. The 2017 California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony will be held Saturday, September 30, 2017 from 11:30am to 1:00pm. Watch the ceremony LIVE.

CPF, CalChiefs Join to Urge State to Invest in Disaster Response

Wed, 23 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -0700

California’s world-class mutual aid response system is being stretched to its limits, and needs help to ensure that our state is ready for climate disasters. That's the message delivered in Sacramento by labor and management in a call for secure investment to address the extreme threats of climate-related disasters.

New Push in Congress for Federal Firefighter Disability Presumption

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0700

Federal firefighters struggle to get disability benefits for job-related illness, forced to hew to an unreasonable burden of proof. A new bill in Congress would give federal firefighters the same presumptive protection enjoyed by state and local firefighters in California and dozens of other states.

Stand Down for the California Firefighters Memorial

Wed, 05 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -0700

The California fire service is asking all California firefighters and their families to honor our fallen on October 15th by participating — in person or online at the fire station — in the California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony.

CPF Firevision - California Firefighters Memorial Stand Down

Tue, 04 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -0700

On October 15th, at 11:30am, California fire service leaders are asking departments to stand down on-duty personnel to watch the California Firefighters Memorial online. Off-duty personnel are being urged to attend the Memorial in Sacramento.

CA Businesses Support Foundation During Firefighter Appreciation Month

Fri, 09 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -0700

Join the California Fire Foundation in marking September as Firefighter Appreciation Month. Businesses up and down the state representing for firefighters, and supporting the Foundation.

Arsonist Who Murdered LA FF Again Up For Parole

Fri, 02 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -0700

An arsonist convicted of murder in the 1981 death of a Los Angeles City firefighter is up for parole and, once again, United Firefighters Local 112 is leading the fight to keep him behind bars.

Fire Service Leaders Urge Stand Down for CA Firefighters Memorial

Wed, 24 Aug 2016 00:00:00 -0700

The presidents of California Professional Firefighters and the California Fire Chiefs Association have sent a joint letter to all California fire departments and firefighter union presidents announcing a Safety Stand Down for the October 15th California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony, encouraging all firefighters to participate in person at the ceremony or by watching in stations online.

CPF Firevision - Wildfire Update

Wed, 13 Jul 2016 00:00:00 -0700

June Wildfire Update: A surge of serious wildfires in late June took two lives and scorched more than 60,000 acres. CPF's California Fire Foundation helped comfort victims through its Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) program.

CPF Firevision - Oil Spill Response Training

Fri, 27 May 2016 00:00:00 -0700

Federal, state & local firefighters & environmental teams train together to respond to oil train derailment along the Feather River.

Ex-SJ Mayor's Anti-Pension Ballot Fight Targets 2018

Mon, 09 May 2016 00:00:00 -0700

The self-appointed public retirement wrecking crew is making it official - they're coming after pensions in 2018, led by former San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed.

CPF Firevision - In the Line of Fire

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 00:00:00 -0700

CAL FIRE Battalion Chief Paul Duncan -- a member of CAL FIRE Local 2881 -- and his wife Courtney Duncan -- a CAL FIRE Communications Operator -- tell the story of their family's harrowing flight from last Fall's Valley Fire. They were among the hundreds who lost their homes in the massive blaze.

CPF Firevision – Reaching Out on Fire Safety

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 00:00:00 -0700

The California Fire Foundation's Firefighters On Your Side program launches a new bilingual fire safety outreach program targeting California's Filipino Community

Failed Ex-Pols Launch New Broadside Against Retirement Security

Mon, 05 Oct 2015 00:00:00 -0700

Despite an embarrassing failure in their first attempt, two ex-politicians are doubling down in their assault on public service with two new ballot proposals attacking retirement security for firefighters, teachers, nurses and other public workers.

LODD: LAFD Pilot/Firefighter Steven Robinson

Fri, 14 Aug 2015 00:00:00 -0700

United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Local 112 is saddened to announce the death of LAFD Pilot/Firefighter Steven Robinson. Brother Robinson died August 9, 2015 at the age of 49.

LODD: U.S. Forest Service Firefighter Michael Hallenbeck

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 00:00:00 -0700

The United States Forest Service has announced the line of duty death of one of their own. USFS Firefighter Michael Hallenbeck, 21, from Shingle Springs, died late Saturday, August 8, 2015 after being struck by a tree during initial attack on the Sierra Fire near Lake Tahoe.

LODD: Fremont Deputy Chief Jim Martin

Sun, 26 Jul 2015 00:00:00 -0700

Fremont Firefighters Local 1689 is saddened to announce the passing of Deputy Chief Jim Martin on July 24th. Martin, who served several terms as Local 1689 president during his 30 year career, lost a valiant four-year battle with job-related cancer.

Sacramento Rally Targets Special Interest Pension Grab

Fri, 10 Apr 2015 00:00:00 -0700

More than 100 firefighters, teachers, police officers, school employees and other public servants rallied in Sacramento against a ballot measure that threatens the retirement of millions of hard-working Californians.

Creditors challenge San Bernardino bankruptcy plan, threaten retiree pensions

Thu, 08 Jan 2015 00:00:00 -0700

Only months after the struggle in Stockton reached its conclusion, Wall Street is, once again, looking to place its interests over those of California's working men and women.

LODD: Roseville Fire Captain Tracy Chimenti

Sun, 28 Dec 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Roseville Firefighters Local 1592 is saddened to announce the passing of Roseville Fire Captain Tom Chimenti (ret.), who died Saturday at the age of 54 after a courageous battle with job-related cancer.

Ventura Co. Firefighters Hospitalized Battling Santa Paula Hazmat Fire

Tue, 18 Nov 2014 00:00:00 -0700

At least five people, including three Ventura Co. firefighters, were hospitalized after an early-morning vacuum truck explosion and fire Thursday in Santa Paula. Residents within a mile of the explosion site were evacuated, as the fire continued to burn in the afternoon.

US Bankruptcy Judge Sides With Wall St. in Stockton Decision

Wed, 01 Oct 2014 00:00:00 -0700

In a decision that could pad Wall St. bottom lines and devastate local public safety, a federal bankruptcy judge has ruled that Stockton could, if it chooses, sever its ties with CalPERS. Stockton lawyers say such a move could provoke the loss of 60% of its police and firefighters.

Fierce Nor Cal Blaze Torches 100 Homes, Thousands Evacuated

Tue, 16 Sep 2014 00:00:00 -0700

A sudden and explosive wildfire near the Oregon border has destroyed 100 homes just south of Weed, at the base of Mt. Shasta. Nearly 2,000 have been forced to evacuate and some 800 firefighters are on scene battling the blaze.

Foundation SAVE Cards Aid Napa Earthquake Victims

Wed, 27 Aug 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Napa City firefighters, working round the clock since early Sunday morning, are offering an extra helping hand for families hit hardest by this weekend’s 6.0 earthquake.

Victory in Ventura: Koch-Backed Forces Drop Pension Grab Fight

Wed, 06 Aug 2014 00:00:00 -0700

It's official: An effort to wipe out secure public pensions in Ventura County is dead. Anti-retirement ideologues have dropped a legal effort to force the measure back on the ballot.

Ventura Co. Firefighters Hail Decision on Anti-Pension Measure

Mon, 04 Aug 2014 00:00:00 -0700

While the fight is still far from over, Ventura County firefighters and public workers are praising a judge's has ruled that a county initiative eliminating defined-benefit pensions violates state law and should be removed from the November ballot.

CPF Firevision - Ventura County Pension Attack

Fri, 25 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0700

A well-funded Ventura County ballot initiative, backed by outside interests including the Koch Brothers, has put the very concept of a secure retirement on trial. The measure, ticketed for the November ballot, would eliminate all defined benefit pensions, including those providing for the survivors of fallen firefighters and law enforcement officers.

Pension Cutters Reveal Bigger Agenda in Ventura Co. Ballot Fight

Wed, 23 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Anti-retirement hard liners are acknowledging that their well-funded ballot campaign in Ventura County is part of a bigger agenda to eliminate secure pensions everywhere. "This is meant to be a template for other counties," says Jon Coupal of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

Daniel A. Terry Scholarship Application Deadline July 30

Mon, 21 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Children of fallen firefighters can apply for up to $2,000 in scholarship grants through the Daniel A. Terry Scholarship Program. The 2014 deadline for applying is July 30.

Gov. Signs Bill Extending Memorial Tax Check-Off

Wed, 16 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Gov. Jerry Brown has signed legislation honoring the sacrifice of California’s fallen public safety heroes. Assembly Bill 1561 by Assemblymember Fred Rodriguez (D-Los Angeles) extends the current voluntary tax check-offs for the California Firefighters Memorial and the California Peace Officers Memorial to 2021.

CPF Firevision - 2014 Safety Stand Down

Tue, 01 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0700

The California fire service has come together to call for a Safety Stand Down this Thursday, July 3, 2014 The Stand Down encourages departments to review critical wildfire safety procedures ahead of what promises to be a blistering fire season.

Statewide Wildfire Safety Stand Down Set for July 3

Mon, 30 Jun 2014 00:00:00 -0700

As the nation marks the one-year anniversary of the Yarnell Hills Fire tragedy, the California fire service is urging all departments to join in the 2014 Safety Stand Down on July 3.

Air Force Wife Anonymously Pays for Vacaville FFs Groceries

Tue, 27 May 2014 00:00:00 -0700

In a humbling act of generosity on Memorial Day weekend, an anonymous Air Force spouse thanked Vacaville firefighters Sunday by paying for their groceries when an emergency call forced them to leave station shopping unfinished.

S.D. Fires Top 10,000 Acres - First Confirmed Fatality

Fri, 16 May 2014 00:00:00 -0700

A burst of heat-assisted wildfires continued to roar through portions of San Diego County, with total acreage burned topping 10,000. The largest blaze is at Camp Pendleton. A body was discovered in a transient camp, the first confirmed fatality.

Brown Signs Death Benefits Protection for Fallen Firefighter Families

Wed, 14 May 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Governor Jerry Brown has signed CPF-sponsored legislation easing an arbitrary limit on survivor benefits for the families of firefighters stricken by job-related cancer.

CPF Firevision - Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency

Wed, 16 Apr 2014 00:00:00 -0700

S.A.V.E. -- CPF's California Fire Foundation has launched the Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) program. The program allows firefighters at the scene of destructive events to provide victims with a gift card to help get them back on their feet.

CPF Firevision - Fire Ops 101

Wed, 26 Mar 2014 00:00:00 -0700

More than 40 California State Legislators and staff members participated in the California Professional Firefighters Fire Ops 101 training session March 5 on the west steps of the Capitol and got a chance to take some heat.

CPF Secretary Treasurer Sworn in as Chair of State EMS Commission

Wed, 19 Mar 2014 00:00:00 -0700

California firefighters now have a forceful advocate on EMS issues as CPF Secretary-Treasurer Lew Stone has been sworn in as the new chair of California's Emergency Medical Services Commission.

Court Deals Blow to SJ Mayor's Pension Slashing Ballot Fight

Thu, 13 Mar 2014 00:00:00 -0700

A Sacramento judge has rejected San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed's effort to rewrite the attorney general's ballot description of his pension-slashing initiative. The ruling virtually assures it will not be on the ballot in 2014.

CPF Firevision - Pension Update

Thu, 06 Mar 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Outside interests are gathering to press their attacks on firefighter pensions after initial defeats and the anti-pension forces have stepped up efforts on the local level. It's a Wall Street battle against public employees.

CPF Firevision - Tax Checkoff for Firefighters Memorial

Wed, 12 Feb 2014 00:00:00 -0700

The California Fire Foundation has an easy way for you to designate all or a portion of your California tax refund to the expansion and upkeep of the California Firefighters Memorial. Just check off Line 406 on your tax return.

CPF Firevision - TCM Training: Responding to Violent Incidents

Wed, 22 Jan 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Previewing a new Terrorism Consequence Management training program from the CFFJAC designed to get fire and law enforcement working together to save lives during a violent incident.

LODD: OCFA Apparatus Engineer Greg Hennessey

Mon, 20 Jan 2014 00:00:00 -0700

CPF joins Orange Co. Professional Firefighters Local 3631 and the entire fire service in mourning the sudden loss of OCFA Apparatus Engineer Greg Hennessey. Brother Hennessey died suddenly January 20th while on duty in Rancho Santa Margarita.

Extreme Drought Brings "Explosive" Fire Risk

Mon, 20 Jan 2014 00:00:00 -0700

As firefighters corral the 2,000 acre Colby Fire, climatologists are warning that mid-summer-like conditions have created a risk of "explosive" wild land fires throughout California.

Wind Whipped Fire Scorches So Cal, Gov. Declares Drought

Fri, 17 Jan 2014 00:00:00 -0700

A fast-moving fire near Glendora in Southern California has scorched over 1,700 acres and forced thousands to evacuate. Gov. Jerry Brown has declared a drought emergency in California in response to the widening risk.

Atty. Gen. Releases Key Ballot Language on Reed Pension Initiative

Tue, 07 Jan 2014 00:00:00 -0700

Anti-pension forces are still actively considering a November ballot attack on retirement security in the wake of new ballot language released this week. California Attorney General Kamala Harris issued the all-important title and summary of the pension measure by San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed.

Landmark San Jose Ruling Upholds Vested Pension Rights

Mon, 23 Dec 2013 00:00:00 -0700

A Santa Clara Superior Court judge has invalidated the central provision of a pension-slashing initiative in San Jose that threatened basic retirement rights for millions of California workers. The closely-watched decision ruled that the city's Measure B illegally cut the pensions of current workers.

Leg. Analyst: Reed Pension Initiative May Cost Billions

Fri, 20 Dec 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Public pension foes got yet another lump of coal in their holiday stockings. The non-partisan Legislative Analyst's Office says San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed's initiative to gut retirement security could cost into the billions over the next two decades, and long-term savings could be offset by cost increases in other areas.

Pew Anti-Pension Campaign Trips on its Own Poll

Wed, 20 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Fueled by money from anti-retirement billionaires, the Pew Center has been advocating for slashing the pensions of firefighters and other public workers. But when they went out and asked the public what they thought, they found the people weren't buying the spin.

LODD: Livermore Pleasanton Captain Paul Chenkovich

Tue, 05 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Livermore-Pleasanton Firefighters Local 1974 and CPF are saddened to announce the death of Livermore-Pleasanton Captain Paul Chenkovich in the line of duty. Brother Chenkovich died November 5th after a three-year battle with job-related brain cancer at the age of 48. Memorial services are scheduled for Friday, Nov. 15 at 11:00am, St. Augustine Church, Pleasanton.

LODD: Los Angeles Co. Firefighter Specialist Shawn Bayer

Mon, 04 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Los Angeles County Firefighters Local 1014 is saddened to announce the death of LACoFD Firefighter Specialist Shawn Bayer of job-related cancer.

San Jose Mayor Launches Campaign to Gut Retirement Security

Thu, 17 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0700

With an Enron profiteer and powerful anti-worker ideologues in his corner, San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed this week launched a statewide campaign to cut the heart out of retirement security for millions of firefighters, teachers and other public workers.

CPF-Backed Candidates Re-Elected to CalPERS Board of Administration

Wed, 09 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0700

The election to fill two seats employee seats on the CalPERS Board of Administration is over, and there won't be a runoff. J.J. Jelincic and Michael Bilbrey -- both backed by California Professional Firefighters -- won their reelection campaigns with more than 50% of the vote.

Emotional Sacramento Tribute Honors Fallen California Firefighters

Sat, 05 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Hundreds of firefighters, family members, grateful citizens and Governor Jerry Brown paused today in Sacramento's Capitol Park to honor 22 firefighters who died in the line of duty. The California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony pays tribute to those who have paid the ultimate price.

Fire Resources Ramp Up Ahead of Red Flag Warnings

Thu, 03 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0700

With dry desert winds forecast for much of California over the next few days, CAL FIRE and local agencies are pre-deploying resources to prepare for the worst.

Promise Breakers: How Pew Trusts Are Helping to Gut Pensions

Tue, 24 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Is the "non-partisan" Pew Center for the States selling its good name and acting as the new front group for billionaire anti-pension ideologue John Arnold? You decide.

Prescott Stiffs Granite Mountain Hotshot Widow on Survivor Benefits

Tue, 06 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0700

When Andrew Ashcroft died with 18 of his brother firefighters in the Yarnell Hills fire last month, he was pulling full-time shifts. But the City of Prescott says he's only a "seasonal", denying his widow key survivor benefits.

NY Times: Detroit Bankruptcy Shouldn't Threaten Hard-Earned Benefits

Mon, 05 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Detroit's bankruptcy can't and shouldn't be blamed on public workers, and it shouldn't be used as an excuse to take away hard-earned benefits. So says an editorial in this weekend's New York Times.

LODD: Saturday Memorial in Newport Beach Honored Two Arizona Hotshots

Mon, 22 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Grant McKee and Robert Caldwell worked ... and died ... together on the front lines in the Granite Mountain Hotshots. The two men -- both killed in the Yarnell Hill Fire, were honored on Saturday, July 20, 2013 at 11:00am.

LODD: Memorial Service for Fallen AZ FF Kevin Woyjeck

Fri, 12 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Kevin Woyjeck, 21, was among 19 Prescott AZ firefighters who died battling the Yarnell Hills Fire in central Arizona. On Tuesday, July 16th, at 11:00am, Kevin was honored with a memorial service in Long Beach.

CPF Firevision -- Sorrow and Remembrance

Thu, 11 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Saluting Our Fallen: On June 30, the fire service suffered its greatest one-day loss since 9/11 with the death of 19 Granite Mountain Hotshot firefighters from Prescott, AZ. A few days later, CAL FIRE engineer Christopher Douglas lost his life in the line of duty.

California's Fallen From AZ Tragedy Returned Home Wednesday

Thu, 11 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0700

On Wednesday, July 10, 2013, fallen firefighters with California roots were flown home from Arizona to the Golden State aboard a National Guard C-130. A Memorial Ramp Ceremony upon their arrival gave all California firefighters the opportunity to pay their respects to those who paid the ultimate price.

LODD: CAL FIRE Engineer/Paramedic Christopher Douglas

Fri, 05 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0700

CDF Firefighters Local 2881 is saddened to announce the line-of-duty death of CAL FIRE Engineer/Paramedic Christopher Douglas, who was fatally injured this morning after being hit by a car while working along eastbound Interstate 10 in the Thousand Palms area of Riverside County.

LODD: Horrific Wildland Blaze Claims 19 Prescott AZ "Hotshots"

Wed, 03 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0700

In the most devastating firefighter loss since 9/11, 19 Prescott Arizona firefighters died Sunday battling a devastating wildland blaze in central Arizona. A public memorial was held in Prescott on Tuesday, July 9 at 11:00am at the Toyota Center.

Five Californians Among 19 Fallen Prescott AZ Hotshots

Tue, 02 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0700

For some California families, Sunday's tragedy in central Arizona carries special pain. Five California natives were among the 19 Granite Mountain Hotshots who died in Sunday's catastrophic burn over of the Yarnell Hills Fire.

Texas Billionaire to Bankroll Effort to Gut Pensions

Wed, 26 Jun 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Despite hundreds of millions in concessions and give-backs by working people, anti-pension hard liners are doubling down on their attacks. Now, a billionaire Texas hedge fund operator linked with the defunct and discredited Enron is promising millions to a California campaign to gut retirement security for firefighters and other workers.

Vandenberg FFs Get Fire Season Furlough Notices

Thu, 30 May 2013 00:00:00 -0700

At a time when the Central Coast is under siege from wildland fires, Vandenberg firefighters are getting furlough notices. Thanks to the federal sequester, all 57 firefighters will face furloughs of up to 32 hours a month from July through September, and will see the closure of the base Hot Shots program.

Slate: First Responder Training and Teamwork Key to Disaster Response

Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Untrained or poorly-trained "rescuers" are increasingly becoming casualties themselves in multiple fatality incidents, both in and outside the workplace.

Anti-Pension Ballot Wave Crests as Court Problems Arise

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 -0700

No new anti-pension measures are being eyed at either the state or local level in California, and those that have passed are facing increasing difficulty in the courts. With pension funds at record levels and voter indifference rising, the anti-retirement tide may have finally ebbed.

CPF Firevision -- L.A. Arsonist Parole Fight

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 -0700

The convicted murderer who set a North Hollywood arson fire that killed 34-year-old L.A. City firefighter Thomas Taylor in 1981 is eligible to be released from prison. Watch and share and find out why Mario Catanio deserves to stay behind bars.

Massive Springs Fire Approaches Containment With No Homes Lost

Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Rain and cooler temperatures provided a much-needed break for firefighters battling the 28,000 acre Springs Fire in Ventura County. But the real miracle may have been the work of the firefighters themselves.

Windswept Fires Force Evacuations in Two Counties

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Windswept wildland fires in Riverside and Ventura counties have forced the evacuation of hundreds of local residents, the leading edge of what could be a record-setting fire season.

CalPERS Erases Investment Losses From Recession

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0700

CalPERS' investment portfolio hit a record $261.7 billion last Friday, earning back all of the investment losses suffered as a result of the 2008 market meltdown.

Fire Activity Up in Wildlands - Bad Fire Season Looms

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Drought conditions in California have caused a 45% increase in wildland fire activity, signaling the early beginning of a potentially bad fire season.

Local Govt. Lobbyist Spending Close to $100 Million

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Cities and counties are far and away the biggest spenders on lobbying at the California State Capitol. According to the LA Times, local agencies spent nearly $100 million last year on lobbying, a total that "dwarfs" spending by unions, oil companies and energy firms.

Misleading Sac Bee Editorial Attacks Firefighter Survivor Benefits

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0700

The Sacramento Bee has renewed an attack on legislation aimed at easing a 100-year-old restriction on firefighter survivor benefits in a harsh, and in CPF's view, misleading editorial

CPF Firevision - CFFJAC Career Expos

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Building the Next Generation: This May, would-be firefighters will have the chance to meet department reps and learn if they have what it takes at the annual Career Expos in Orange and Livermore, co-sponsored by CPF through the CFFJAC and its Women's Commission.

Furloughs, FIRE Act, SAFER Cuts Loom in Budget Fight

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0700

More than 700 California firefighters are scheduled to get layoff notices tomorrow, and local public safety grants face steep cuts ... all courtesy of the latest round of federal budget brinksmanship.

LODD: Retired Fire Captain John Duff

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0700

It is with great sadness that Ventura City Firefighters Local 3431 announces the passing of Retired Fire Captain John Duff. John passed away with his family at his side on Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013 after a long and hard battle with job-related cancer.

Bleak US Retirement Future Thanks to Loss of Pensions

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0700

The next generation of retirees will be measurably worse off thanks, in large measure, to the end of defined benefit pensions. According to the Washington Post, the U.S. faces a $6 trillion retirement savings deficit that will likely mean greater pressure on the social safety net and more poverty among the elderly.

San Diego Pension Initiative Shot Down by PERB

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0700

The California Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) provided San Diego firefighters and other public workers with a major victory this week. In an exhaustive and well-documented decision, the PERB's chief administrative law judge ruled that San Diego's pension-slashing Measure B violated state collective bargaining law.

SJ Merc Op-Ed: Voters Weary of Billionaire Pension "Reformers"

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Yet another Texas billionaire has decided he's going to spend big to "reform" retirement security in California. Voters, however, are tired of the posturing.

CPF Firevision - Memorial Ceremony 2012

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0700

Ten Years Honoring California's Fallen -- The California Firefighters Memorial marked a decade honoring California's fallen firefighters with a two-day commemoration in Sacramento. CPF Firevision provides a recap of the moving ceremonies.

Pension "Reform" Winds Up Costing San Diego Taxpayers

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0700

It looks like the promise of pension "reform" comes with a price tag for San Diego taxpayers. In its new city budget, San Diego officials predict a $44 million hike in the pension obligation, most of it caused by last year's Proposition B.

Santa Maria Firefighters Rescue Christmas for Family

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Santa Maria firefighters responded to a destructive house fire during the holidays, and managed to save the family and its Christmas presents.

FDNY Firefighters Salute Fallen Newtown 1st Grader

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Seven-year-old Daniel Barden of Sandy Hook Elementary wanted to be a New York City firefighter like his father's cousins. On Wednesday, FDNY firefighters in full dress uniform paid tribute to young Daniel, who was killed in Friday's Newtown school massacre.

CPF Airs Post-Election "Thank You" Radio Spot

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0700

After one of the most expensive initiative campaigns in state history, California Professional Firefighters this week began airing a radio spot thanking voters for their trust and support in rejecting Proposition 32, the Special Exemptions Initiative.

Historic Win for FFs & Working Families: Prop. 32 Decisively Defeated.

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0700

California’s firefighters earned a hard-fought but historic win in last night’s elections. Despite $60 million in spending – much of it from billionaire special interests – California voters rejected Proposition 32, a measure that would have silenced the voices of working people.

CA Firefighters Mobilizing to Aid Sandy Recovery

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700

USAR teams from L.A. County and Riverside have been placed on alert and firefighters from Northern and Southern California are being dispatched to support response efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

Take Your Best Shot at the 2012 CPF Photo Contest

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Every year, California Professional Firefighters takes a moment to celebrate the heroic images that honor the noble profession of firefighting. Share your unique view of the front lines and you could be awarded $1,500!

CPFs Wrap 4-Day No on 32 Tour With IAFF General President

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700

In the fight against Proposition 32, the stakes are high and every vote counts. That was the message delivered this week by IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger during a four-day, 14-stop tour of California fire stations and union halls.

CPF Firevision - Prop. 32: It's Not What It Seems

Sun, 21 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700

WATCH AND SHARE -- Prop. 32 on the November ballot goes after firefighters and working families, but gives special exemptions to wealthy corporate and individual interests. Firefighters talk about how this will impact their lives and the lives of those whom they serve.

The 2012 California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony

Sat, 20 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Uniformed firefighters, family members and dignitaries from throughout California gathered Saturday in Sacramento to pay tribute to those who gave their lives to protect the lives and property of Californians.

In Memoriam: L.A. Co. Firefighter/Paramedic John Cobos

Sat, 13 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Los Angeles County Firefighters Local 1014 is saddened to report the death of Firefighter/Paramedic John James Cobos.Brother Cobos suffered from job-related cancer and died October 12th.

Introducing the CPF Mobile App

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Your profession in the palm of your hand. The CPF Mobile App helps CPF members keep up with the latest news and critical information affecting their lives, their families and their futures. Download today for iPhone, iPad and Android smartphones.

SF Chronicle: Prop. 32 is Unbalanced 'Reform'

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700

In editorializing against Prop. 32, the San Francisco Chronicle says voters should "see through the facade" and vote NO.

Gov. Signs Measure Rolling Back Future Pensions

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Legislation imposing sweeping rollbacks on retirement security for future public workers was signed today by Gov. Jerry Brown.

SJ Firefighter Stricken in Blaze Regains Consciousness

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700

A San Jose firefighter who suffered an on-scene heart attack is awake and alert after a week of unconsciousness. Frank Ryan collapsed Aug. 30 while on the scene of a fire at St. Patrick's Cathedral in downtown San Jose.

Bipartisan Work Comp Reforms OK'ed By Legislature

Sat, 01 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Employee benefits will rise, medical restrictions will be modified, red tape will be cut and employer rates will go down under a CPF-backed Workers' Comp reform measure approved by the Legislature.

Pension Rollbacks Dodge Bargaining, Hurt Middle Class

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700

As lawmakers prepared to vote Friday on an historic rollback of retirement security, critics say the proposed pension deal usurps collective bargaining and is unbecoming of politicians who claim to support the Middle Class.

SJ Mercury News: Prop. 32 Would Worsen Campaign Finance Mess

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700

The San Jose Mercury News joined a growing list of those who are saying NO to Prop. 32 -- the Special Exemptions Act. "A sham," says the Merc, "that would magnify the influence of wealthy interests while shutting out many middle class voters."

Reduced Winds Aid Battle Vs. Nor Cal Fires

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Nine fires that have collectively burned more than 400,000 acres may get an assist from Mother Nature as winds have begun to die down. More than 8,000 firefighters have been on the lines battling the blazes, the largest of which is on BLM land straddling the California-Nevada border.

CPF Firevision - Memorial 10th Anniversary (Pt. 2)

Tue, 14 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700

In Part 2 of a series of profiles commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the California Firefighters Memorial in Sacramento, CPF President Emeritus Dan Terry recalls the founding of the Memorial.

CPF 2011 Annual Report Now Online

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700

California Professional Firefighters has published its 2011 Annual Report, reviewing the highlights and accomplishments of the year as well as the challenges ahead. CLICK HERE to read and download the report.

CalPERS Pres.: Pensions Unfairly Blamed for Local Bankruptcies

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Media reports about the bankruptcies in Stockton and San Bernardino have tried to link these disasters to pension costs. CalPERS President Rob Feckner says the facts tell a different story.

CPF & Kaplan Partner to Offer Members Tuition Discounts

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700

CPF is pleased to work with Kaplan University to offer a special opportunity for CPF members. CPF members can earn degrees in fire science and emergency management online while on the job, and may receive credit for JAC or SFM training.

Pension "Reform" Increases Poverty Risk for Older Americans

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0700

The decline in secure pensions has coincided with a disturbing increase in elder poverty and future "reforms" could push millions into poverty. So says a new report from the National Institute for Retirement Security.

Pension Critics' Doom and Gloom Assumptions Put Schools At Risk

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700

The critics of public pensions have tried to inflate the supposed pension crisis by assuming incredibly low return rates for CalPERS investments. But a respected independent expert who co-authored a book on California government dysfunction says these assumptions have no grounding in history, and, if implemented, could cost the next generation.

Sub Prime Meltdown, Not Unions, to Blame for Bankruptcies

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700

The cities' anti-labor, anti-firefighter spin being peddled about municipal bankruptcies is coming unraveled. Turns out Stockton and San Bernardino were sub-prime central, and were done in by housing meltdown ... not labor contracts.

Pension Costs Not the Core of San Bernardino Bankruptcy

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700

A statewide pension analyst often quoted by anti-union forces has run the numbers in San Bernardino. Conclusion: Economic meltdown, mismanagement and toxic politics are at the heart of the San Bernardino bankruptcy bid.

Five Myths about Public Pensions

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700

IAFF General President Harold Schaitberger has penned an op-ed for the Huffington Post debunking skewed study from Pew Centers. Bottom line: Funding "crisis" is overstated.

Prop. 32: The Special Exemptions Act

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Proposition 32 on the November ballot -- the Special Exemptions Act -- would choke off the effective voice of you and your fellow firefighters, all the while protecting the rights of corporations and the super rich.

Field Poll: Pension Reform Not a High Priority With Voters

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Looks like Californians aren't as crazed to slash retirement security as some would have you believe. A new independent poll shows more than half believe pension levels are about right or too low. Voters also back public employee collective bargaining.

LODD: Alameda County Firefighter Hollis Franks

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Alameda Co. Firefighters Local 55 is saddened to announce the line-of-duty death of Firefighter Hollis Franks. Brother Franks died June 23, 2012 after a brief but valiant fight with job-related lung cancer.

FFs Make Case for Removing Toxins from Flame Retardants

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Uniformed firefighters from Stockton and San Gabriel joined medical researchers, furniture manufacturers and environmental groups at a legislative hearing to call for an end to the use of dangerous toxins in furniture.

FF Cancer Risk Cited in Bid to Reform Flame Retardant Standard

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700

CPF- and IAFF-backed efforts to get cancer-causing toxins out of fire retardants got a boost when Gov. Jerry Brown issued a directive to revise California’s decades-old flammability standard.

CPF Firevision - Memorial 10th Anniversary

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Ten Years Honoring California's Fallen -- Part 1 of a series of profiles commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the California Firefighters Memorial in Sacramento.

LODD: East Contra Costa Engineer Willie West

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0700

United Profession Firefighters of Contra Costa County Local 1230 is saddened to announce the line-of-duty death of East Contra Costa FPD Engineer William West. Brother West succumbed to job-related cancer on June 12, 2012.

CPF Firevision - Apprenticeship Works

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Apprenticeship Works -- New documentary outlines value of firefighter and building trades apprentices in training for the jobs of the future.

Daniel A. Terry Scholarships for Children of Fallen Firefighters

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0700

The Daniel A. Terry Scholarship provides higher education financial assistance to the children of California's fallen firefighters. Applications are being accepted for the 2012 scholarships.

Santa Rosa Charter Commission Votes to Keep Binding Arbitration

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700

A 21-member independent commission developing changes in Santa Rosa's city charter has voted overwhelmingly to preserve binding arbitration protection for firefighters and police. The commission refined the existing language, but ultimately decided that public safety officers deserve to have their contract disputes resolved through arbitration.

CPF Firevision: The Corporate Power Grab

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700

A Fight We Can't Afford to Lose: CPF Firevision spotlights the November battle over a Corporate Power Grab initiative that would muzzle working families while preserving political fund raising for corporations and the super rich

Firefighter Appreciation Day at the Auto Club Speedway

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700

This weekend's Auto Club 400 NASCAR race in Fontana will be honoring California first responders on Firefighter Appreciation Day. A portion of each firefighter ticket goes to support the California Fire Foundation. Tickets are still available -- the race is Sunday, March 25th.

LODD: CAL FIRE Hvy. Equip. Operator Gordie Varney

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0700

CDF Firefighters Local 2881 is saddened to report the loss of CAL FIRE Heavy Equipment Operator Gordon Varney, who succumbed to job-related cancer.

CPF Firevision - CFFJAC Mentoring Program

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Recruit ... Retain ... Promote: A groundbreaking new program for departments, designed to help retain and promote the best and brightest through formal peer mentoring.

CFFJAC Launches Firefighter Mentoring Program

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700

The CFFJAC and its Women’s Commission have launched a groundbreaking mentoring program designed to help firefighters succeed in a tough, demanding career, and help fire departments retain and promote their best and brightest.

CBS2 Report: Rewards, Challenges For Women in Fire Service

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700

LA County Firefighters Sarah Cortez and Eleni Pappas are buying the ice cream at their stations this week. The two were profiled in a CBS2 Special Report spotlighting the challenges and rewards of being a woman in the fire service.

Anti-Pension Group Suspends Initiative Campaign

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Citing funding shortfalls and ballot language that was too close to the truth for their liking, anti-pension activists have suspended their attempt to undermine retirement security for millions of California workers.

CPF Firevision - Special Convention 2012

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700

A Fight We Can't Afford to Lose: CPF members from throughout California gathered in an urgent Special Convention in January to take action against a November initiative aimed at working people in California.

Governor's Pension Plans Target Current and Future Workers

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700

Governor Brown has released details of his plan to roll back the retirement security of current and future employees. The plan proposes to bypass collective bargaining by imposing a range of pension rollbacks and locking them into the state constitution. CPF and dozens of other organizations denounced the move as an assault on current and future workers.

CPF Firevision -- 2011 California Firefighters Memorial

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700

On October 1, 2011, 30 names were added to the California Firefighters Memorial at a solemn ceremony in Sacramento.

CPF Wins Big at This Year's IAFF Media Awards

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700

California Professional Firefighters was recognized with four awards at this year's 2011 IAFF Media Awards, with CPF.org and CPF Firevision receiving top honors.

2011 CA Firefighters Memorial -- Photo Gallery

Sun, 02 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0700

California honored its fallen firefighters Oct. 1 at the annual California Firefighters Memorial Ceremony in Sacramento's Capitol Park.