The California Pines Fire Department is continually accepting applications! If you want to apply or need more information, please email justinulrich@calpinesfire.com.  

 Dedicated Community Service and Safety in Modoc County

The California Pines Fire Department serves the vibrant community of California Pines in Modoc County, CA. Oversight is provided by the board of the California Pines Community Services District, which holds public meetings at 11am on the third Wednesday of each month at the district office (376 County Rd 71, Alturas, CA) to promote transparency and encourage resident participation in local governance. The fire station is conveniently located at 345 Pumice Rd, Alturas, CA, putting the department at the center of its service area for quick response.

Under the leadership of Chief Ryan Sherer (as of 2023), who also acts as the Community Services District’s general manager, the department benefits from unified management, which allows for efficient coordination between emergency services and other community support activities. The department’s team includes six firefighters, two of whom are certified Emergency Medical Responders (EMR), enabling the team to provide both fire protection and medical aid when needed.

Operating daily from 7 AM to 5 PM, the California Pines Fire Department remains ready to respond. Their fleet includes five fire engines and one water tender suitable for both structural and wildland fires, three rescue vehicles for medical emergencies and extrications, and several trucks designed for quick deployment in remote areas. The department’s equipment also includes personal protective gear, self-contained breathing apparatus, portable water pumps, and medical supply kits to ensure preparedness for various emergency situations.

Firefighters actively participate in community life beyond emergency responses. Their support includes helping with garbage collection, regularly inspecting community infrastructure like water systems and roads, and participating in seasonal snow removal. They often work on upgrading district facilities and assist in improving public safety systems, such as inspecting hydrants and installing emergency signs.

Lot Mowing Service: Every year, the department organizes lot mowing in the lake units to reduce overgrown vegetation, helping prevent the spread of wildfires and safeguarding homes and natural habitats.

Defensible Space Education: In conjunction with the Modoc Fire Safe Council, providing guidance and assistance in creating and maintaining defensible space around properties, including landscaping tips, recommended clearance distances, and the identification of fire-prone materials.

Open House Events: The department hosts annual open houses at the station, providing equipment demonstrations, interactive fire safety presentations, tours, and hands-on activities for families and children.

Emergency Preparedness: Distributing fire safety brochures, home evacuation checklists, and personal emergency kits, along with training sessions on CPR, first aid, and family evacuation plans.

Community Partnerships: The department partners with organizations such as Cal Fire, the Modoc Fire Safe Council, and local law enforcement to coordinate regional readiness, joint training exercises, and collaborative response efforts.

Wildland Fire Response: Although there have been no contracted wildland fire assignments since 2023, the department stays trained and equipped for wildfire incidents by conducting regular drills and maintaining readiness throughout fire season.

The California Pines Fire Department operates 10 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is staffed with 3 Certified Emergency Medical Responders/Firefighters. During the busy fire season, the Department participates in contracted fire assignments. 

Do you have a current "File of Life" in your home in case of an emergency? If the answer is "No," please come by the office, and we will provide you with a new one. Alternatively, you can click on the link below and print one off now.

The phone number for the California Pines Fire Department is (530) 233-1151.