IFPD at full staffing, plans early inspections
At the March MAST meeting Idyllwild Fire Battalion Chief James LaMont reported that IFPD is fully staffed, and had prepositioned engines for the storms predicted for that week. Normal daily staffing includes eight people and a hand crew that is on call. They have eight engines and four ambulances.
They are partnering with the USFS on fuels reduction projects, and looking forward to getting back into the Bear Trap fuel break, which runs from Pine Cove to Camp Emerson. Asked about the IFPD’s new Wildfire Prevention grant, LaMont said that they are working on the details, and CalFire’s Lynette Short said that the required CEQA’s should be “minimal.” That grant will be active until 2029.
LaMont noted IFPD’s CPR classes for USFS and local tree companies, and their work with Mountain Disaster Preparedness’ Community Emergency Response Team, which uses IFPD’s meeting room for training. IFPD also runs training exercises for the volunteers.
LaMont wanted to make it clear that Idyllwild residents should expect abatement inspections to begin early this year, on April 1, and fliers are being mailed out. Last year, compliance was at 96%. Locals will also be hearing tests of the emergency siren on the third Saturday of each month.
