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⠀⠀LOS SANTOS FIRE DEPARTMENT⠀⠀
⠀⠀LOS SANTOS FIRE DEPARTMENT⠀⠀
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⠀⠀MONTHLY BULLETIN NEWSLETTER #35 - MAY 2021⠀⠀
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May, what a month it's been. Bringing us up to Newsletter Thirty Four!
May has brought us plenty of changes to the department, with the introduction of a new team of Captains with the promotion of Captaincy Programmes, Lifeguard changes, PR changes and more. It's hard to think we are already half way through 2021. But, we indeed are.
With the news above, we also congratulate the newest Captain II's on their promotions and a big congratulations to the newest Battalion Chief Kurt Holland. It has always been clear that within the department, hard work does not go unnoticed and this month, truely did show that. However, we also bade a fond farewell to Assistant Chief Nicole Schneider who decided to retire earlier this month. With her retirement, we welcome William Butler as the new Assistant Chief. But, Nicole will never be forgotten for what she gave to the Los Santos Fire Department and once a family member. Always a family member.
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May, what a month it's been. Bringing us up to Newsletter Thirty Four!
May has brought us plenty of changes to the department, with the introduction of a new team of Captains with the promotion of Captaincy Programmes, Lifeguard changes, PR changes and more. It's hard to think we are already half way through 2021. But, we indeed are.
With the news above, we also congratulate the newest Captain II's on their promotions and a big congratulations to the newest Battalion Chief Kurt Holland. It has always been clear that within the department, hard work does not go unnoticed and this month, truely did show that. However, we also bade a fond farewell to Assistant Chief Nicole Schneider who decided to retire earlier this month. With her retirement, we welcome William Butler as the new Assistant Chief. But, Nicole will never be forgotten for what she gave to the Los Santos Fire Department and once a family member. Always a family member.
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A 37 year-old Canadian man hailing from Sandy Shores. Our very own Kurt Holland has just been appointed to Battalion Chief position within the Los Santos Fire Department that he has faithfully served for eight years now. Hailing from Springfield at the time his Engineer request was approved, we're here after a long journey to sit down for a quick interview.
To the highest peaks...
"We've got your back." - LSFD's USAR Motto.
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A 37 year-old Canadian man hailing from Sandy Shores. Our very own Kurt Holland has just been appointed to Battalion Chief position within the Los Santos Fire Department that he has faithfully served for eight years now. Hailing from Springfield at the time his Engineer request was approved, we're here after a long journey to sit down for a quick interview.
Interview Transcript
How do you go out on your daily work routine? What do you do, how do you do it and are there any secrets or tips you use? If so, what are they and are there any recommendations you'd hand out to colleagues or civilians alike? -
"My job throughout my entire career was built in Operations Bureau. I’m the Unit Commander of Urban Search and Rescue Division, which is my prime duty to keep myself fit to prepare for the challenging scenes we come across daily. I hit the GYM early in the morning and start the day with a strong breakfast. There is no ‘secret’ among us, for that the recipe is known by all: Commitment. Our job is demanding; there is no room for slacking off, no easy workaround to achieve your dreams in this life. To taste the sweet feeling of success, one must endure the bitter."
What's your personal motto? What's the best thing you think you've done for the Fire Department? What's the worst and how do you cope with the inevitable sense of failure that most firefighters and paramedics tend to face at least once during their careers? -
"I don’t live by mottos. I set myself goals to become a better man of myself, and an effective leader to my crew. That must have been acknowledged by our Chief Officers that they offered me the opportunity to evolve the silver bugles into gold. It’s not my style to vocalize about my contributions or achievements; I focus on my job and leave the rest to the relevant authority. Patience is a virtue.
Firefighting is commonly referred to be the bravest job of all. We run into the buildings even if it means to cost our lives. And, every firefighter goes through that rough patch at least once in their career. Loss of a loved one; a relative, a friend, is an indescribable feeling that can’t be expressed with words. To endure the pain, sense of failure and confidence loss, firefighters require a strong will and this experience remains as the toughest challenge to overcome a mental obstacle in the world of firefighting."
Given that you also operate with USAR, how would you describe it? Both in it's meaning and it's members? What does it represent in your life and what is USAR's motto and how does it operate? -
"Urban Search and Rescue is a formation of skilled firefighters trained in the advanced techniques of firefighting to perform specialized rescues. You need us? “We’ve got your back”. No matter if you are deep down under the Pacific or trapped in the peak of Chiliad. We are up for the challenge.
Davis Fire Station is where our full-time USAR folks are stationed at. This is also how I transferred to Station Three (Davis) in the early stages of my career, perhaps one of the best decisions I made when I look back in time. Only a handful firefighters, all gathered for an aim to go the extra mile in specialized rescue. You treat each call differently and prioritize teamwork to deploy the best tactic, which contributes to a dynamic work environment. We also offer on-call positions for firefighters who’d like to join our forces without the need to switch their primary station."
If you could change one thing inside USAR, what would it be and why? -
"We are planning to expand our operation field and turn the Paleto Station into USAR’s second full-time home soon. We are in works to rebrand our Engine 1 into RE-1, a Rescue Engine to fulfill the duties of the division. Our call volume is divided between the City of Los Santos and Blaine County, thus we are in firm belief that a dedicated group in Paleto will help us to better facilitate our response times in the county, and save space for on-call positions."
Thank you for your time, Kurt. And thank you for sharing with us, the public, one of many important and integral functions the LSFD has to offer in it's neverending duty to keep the people safe and sound. -
From the darkest depths...
How do you go out on your daily work routine? What do you do, how do you do it and are there any secrets or tips you use? If so, what are they and are there any recommendations you'd hand out to colleagues or civilians alike? -
"My job throughout my entire career was built in Operations Bureau. I’m the Unit Commander of Urban Search and Rescue Division, which is my prime duty to keep myself fit to prepare for the challenging scenes we come across daily. I hit the GYM early in the morning and start the day with a strong breakfast. There is no ‘secret’ among us, for that the recipe is known by all: Commitment. Our job is demanding; there is no room for slacking off, no easy workaround to achieve your dreams in this life. To taste the sweet feeling of success, one must endure the bitter."
What's your personal motto? What's the best thing you think you've done for the Fire Department? What's the worst and how do you cope with the inevitable sense of failure that most firefighters and paramedics tend to face at least once during their careers? -
"I don’t live by mottos. I set myself goals to become a better man of myself, and an effective leader to my crew. That must have been acknowledged by our Chief Officers that they offered me the opportunity to evolve the silver bugles into gold. It’s not my style to vocalize about my contributions or achievements; I focus on my job and leave the rest to the relevant authority. Patience is a virtue.
Firefighting is commonly referred to be the bravest job of all. We run into the buildings even if it means to cost our lives. And, every firefighter goes through that rough patch at least once in their career. Loss of a loved one; a relative, a friend, is an indescribable feeling that can’t be expressed with words. To endure the pain, sense of failure and confidence loss, firefighters require a strong will and this experience remains as the toughest challenge to overcome a mental obstacle in the world of firefighting."
Given that you also operate with USAR, how would you describe it? Both in it's meaning and it's members? What does it represent in your life and what is USAR's motto and how does it operate? -
"Urban Search and Rescue is a formation of skilled firefighters trained in the advanced techniques of firefighting to perform specialized rescues. You need us? “We’ve got your back”. No matter if you are deep down under the Pacific or trapped in the peak of Chiliad. We are up for the challenge.
Davis Fire Station is where our full-time USAR folks are stationed at. This is also how I transferred to Station Three (Davis) in the early stages of my career, perhaps one of the best decisions I made when I look back in time. Only a handful firefighters, all gathered for an aim to go the extra mile in specialized rescue. You treat each call differently and prioritize teamwork to deploy the best tactic, which contributes to a dynamic work environment. We also offer on-call positions for firefighters who’d like to join our forces without the need to switch their primary station."
If you could change one thing inside USAR, what would it be and why? -
"We are planning to expand our operation field and turn the Paleto Station into USAR’s second full-time home soon. We are in works to rebrand our Engine 1 into RE-1, a Rescue Engine to fulfill the duties of the division. Our call volume is divided between the City of Los Santos and Blaine County, thus we are in firm belief that a dedicated group in Paleto will help us to better facilitate our response times in the county, and save space for on-call positions."
Thank you for your time, Kurt. And thank you for sharing with us, the public, one of many important and integral functions the LSFD has to offer in it's neverending duty to keep the people safe and sound. -
To the highest peaks...
"We've got your back." - LSFD's USAR Motto.
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This month has been Behavioural Health and Suicide Awareness month, in a candid interview with PR Director and Volunteer Firefighter Alex Jorgensen. He talks about the impact of the job of a First Responder on their Behavioural and Mental Health.
This month has been Behavioural Health and Suicide Awareness month, in a candid interview with PR Director and Volunteer Firefighter Alex Jorgensen. He talks about the impact of the job of a First Responder on their Behavioural and Mental Health.
**VIDEO CLIP**
**Throughout the video, Alex would speak on camera. The video sometimes cutting to video footage captured on past incidents.**
Alex Jorgensen: The Public often see Firefighters as having the absolute dream job and in many ways it is, saving lives, doing what they enjoy. However, there is always two sides to every story. The footage you're about to see, shows the other side to being a First Responder. The Los Santos Fire Department as a agency, has always followed its core values of serving the city of Los Santos with courage, integrity and pride.
**The video would cut to footage of a Caracara 2020 being crushed by a tree in Blaine County as Alex continues to address the viewer**
Alex Jorgensen:We respond to more than a hundred emergency incidents a day and that isn't counting departmental callouts from the likes of the LSPD or LSSD. It could be from a nine one one call, departmental, a member of the public flagging us down or us simply stumbling upon the scene, on some scenes.
Events may even unfold before our eyes.
**The video would cut to footage of a situation in a construction site, with firefighters in turnouts and one of them laid in mud.**
Alex Jorgensen: We are first on scene to face some of the most challenging, dangerous and draining circumstances often exposed to injury, pain, grief and unfortunately, death. As a First Responder, you as an individual are exposed to numerous threats to your personal safety and wellbeing. Employees of the Los Santos Fire Department work long hours, frequently for days at a time, suffering from poor sleep, physical hardships and other negativity that can come from situations they are involved with.
Research shows Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD and depression rates for Emergency Service Workers, especially First Responders can be five times higher than the civilian population that we proudly serve, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
**The video would cut to footage of a vehicular fire, a firefighter would be seen handling a hazards barrel.**
Alex Jorgensen: Every year since 2017 reported suicides outpace on duty deaths for First Responders. Research shows some years even more than twice as many First Responders have died by suicide than died in the line of duty.
**The video would cut to footage of a structure fire, a firefighter would be seen briefly carrying a hose before rubble falls around him.**
Alex Jorgensen:They also get injured and often the mental strain of recovery is a greater challenge than physical pain and all of this takes its toll on the person and their families.
**The video would cut to footage of Station 3 in Davis, a line of Firefighters would be seen saluting a flag flying at half mast.**
Alex Jorgensen: As a First Responder, we will continue to put the needs of others ahead of our own. However, we need to remember. Doing so, takes a toll on us all. To ensure our own and collective behavioural health we need to watch for symptoms in ourselves and others and to know where we can turn to for help. For a group of people who often see asking for help as a sign of weakness, we need to remove the stigma that comes with behavioural health is crucial. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering self-harm including suicide, know that you are not alone.
**The video would finally cut to a structure Fire in Vespucci, an explosion would be seen on camera before the footage cuts, the video ending as it fades to the LSFD logo on a black background.**
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Alex Jorgensen: The Public often see Firefighters as having the absolute dream job and in many ways it is, saving lives, doing what they enjoy. However, there is always two sides to every story. The footage you're about to see, shows the other side to being a First Responder. The Los Santos Fire Department as a agency, has always followed its core values of serving the city of Los Santos with courage, integrity and pride.
**The video would cut to footage of a Caracara 2020 being crushed by a tree in Blaine County as Alex continues to address the viewer**
Alex Jorgensen:We respond to more than a hundred emergency incidents a day and that isn't counting departmental callouts from the likes of the LSPD or LSSD. It could be from a nine one one call, departmental, a member of the public flagging us down or us simply stumbling upon the scene, on some scenes.
Events may even unfold before our eyes.
**The video would cut to footage of a situation in a construction site, with firefighters in turnouts and one of them laid in mud.**
Alex Jorgensen: We are first on scene to face some of the most challenging, dangerous and draining circumstances often exposed to injury, pain, grief and unfortunately, death. As a First Responder, you as an individual are exposed to numerous threats to your personal safety and wellbeing. Employees of the Los Santos Fire Department work long hours, frequently for days at a time, suffering from poor sleep, physical hardships and other negativity that can come from situations they are involved with.
Research shows Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD and depression rates for Emergency Service Workers, especially First Responders can be five times higher than the civilian population that we proudly serve, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
**The video would cut to footage of a vehicular fire, a firefighter would be seen handling a hazards barrel.**
Alex Jorgensen: Every year since 2017 reported suicides outpace on duty deaths for First Responders. Research shows some years even more than twice as many First Responders have died by suicide than died in the line of duty.
**The video would cut to footage of a structure fire, a firefighter would be seen briefly carrying a hose before rubble falls around him.**
Alex Jorgensen:They also get injured and often the mental strain of recovery is a greater challenge than physical pain and all of this takes its toll on the person and their families.
**The video would cut to footage of Station 3 in Davis, a line of Firefighters would be seen saluting a flag flying at half mast.**
Alex Jorgensen: As a First Responder, we will continue to put the needs of others ahead of our own. However, we need to remember. Doing so, takes a toll on us all. To ensure our own and collective behavioural health we need to watch for symptoms in ourselves and others and to know where we can turn to for help. For a group of people who often see asking for help as a sign of weakness, we need to remove the stigma that comes with behavioural health is crucial. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering self-harm including suicide, know that you are not alone.
**The video would finally cut to a structure Fire in Vespucci, an explosion would be seen on camera before the footage cuts, the video ending as it fades to the LSFD logo on a black background.**
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Every month the Lifeguard Chief will be able to speak on behalf of their division informing everyone in the newsletter what the lifeguards have been up to and where they're headed. See below for what they had to say!
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Every month the Lifeguard Chief will be able to speak on behalf of their division informing everyone in the newsletter what the lifeguards have been up to and where they're headed. See below for what they had to say!
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Lifeguard Chief Arianna Iglesias:
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"During the month of May 2021 the Lifeguard Division has introduced two new subsections as well as looking towards revamping a current section of the Division.
Lifeguard Captain Ailani Kanoa has taken on board the responsibility as the Dive Team Sub Sections team leader. Expanding upon our existing dive team in order to offer a more broad training to the team members to expand on their knowledge for different types of situations that can happen.
Lifeguard Captain Lilith Seong has began work on a brand new Sub Section, Marine Wildlife which will focus more on how to treat injuries from the wildlife in our ocean, how to make sure the environment around the beaches and oceans is safe for people and the marine wildlife and how to deal with marine wildlife in danger.
The Recovery Sub Section is looking at getting revamped over the next few months in order to make it full, including a proper training schedule made up in order to get lifeguards trained in the necessary techniques in order to effectively and efficiently remove hazardous materials from our oceans and bodies of water.
With the summer fast approaching and more events orienting around the beach we are happy with how the division has been growing in the recent months and hope that it continues to grow for many more months to come!"
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"During the month of May 2021 the Lifeguard Division has introduced two new subsections as well as looking towards revamping a current section of the Division.
Lifeguard Captain Ailani Kanoa has taken on board the responsibility as the Dive Team Sub Sections team leader. Expanding upon our existing dive team in order to offer a more broad training to the team members to expand on their knowledge for different types of situations that can happen.
Lifeguard Captain Lilith Seong has began work on a brand new Sub Section, Marine Wildlife which will focus more on how to treat injuries from the wildlife in our ocean, how to make sure the environment around the beaches and oceans is safe for people and the marine wildlife and how to deal with marine wildlife in danger.
The Recovery Sub Section is looking at getting revamped over the next few months in order to make it full, including a proper training schedule made up in order to get lifeguards trained in the necessary techniques in order to effectively and efficiently remove hazardous materials from our oceans and bodies of water.
With the summer fast approaching and more events orienting around the beach we are happy with how the division has been growing in the recent months and hope that it continues to grow for many more months to come!"
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Throughout each month, various awards are issued to show accomplishments and certifications that have been accumulated through hard work and dedication, find below the awards that were issued this month!
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To the end of every month, members who are due a promotion are discussed by all Supervisory members of the Los Santos Fire Department. Members who have shown dedication, enthusiasm, maturity and have completed the requirements of their rank, are recommended for promotion before Chiefs of the department make the final decision. Below are the members who have successfully received promotions!
To the end of every month, members who are due a promotion are discussed by all Supervisory members of the Los Santos Fire Department. Members who have shown dedication, enthusiasm, maturity and have completed the requirements of their rank, are recommended for promotion before Chiefs of the department make the final decision. Below are the members who have successfully received promotions!
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Below is listed our current number of members at each rank in the Los Santos Fire Department.
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⠀Chief Officers:
⠀Company Officers:
⠀Non-Commissioned Staff:
⠀Lifeguards:
⠀Total members: 91
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Below is listed our current number of members at each rank in the Los Santos Fire Department.
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⠀Chief Officers:
- Fire Chief: 1
- Deputy Chief: 0
- Assistant Chiefs: 1
- Battalion Chiefs: 1
⠀Company Officers:
- Captain II: 5
- Captain I: 5
⠀Non-Commissioned Staff:
- Engineers: 5
- Firefighter III: 9
- Firefighter II: 7
- Firefighter I: 9
- Probationary Firefighters: 7
- Voluntary Firefighters: 12
- Paramedic: 1
- EMT: 5
- Probationary EMTs: 6
- Civilian Staff: 3
⠀Lifeguards:
- Lifeguard Chief: 1
- Lifeguard Section Chief: 1
- Lifeguard Captains: 2
- Lifeguards: 5
- Lifeguard Trainees: 5
⠀Total members: 91
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Every month the Chief leaves his own statement at the end of every newsletter taking an overlook of the department from his perspective, below you can find what he had to say this month.
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Every month the Chief leaves his own statement at the end of every newsletter taking an overlook of the department from his perspective, below you can find what he had to say this month.
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Fire Chief Randy Sikes:
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"Good afternoon everyone,
I don't have any major announcements this month. Construction for our fleet maintenance building is coming along very well but we do not have an opening date as of yet. Refurbishment of Fire Station 2 is also in process and we will give an update as soon as we have one.
Congratulations to everybody who received an award or promoted. Hope everyone has a great month."
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"Good afternoon everyone,
I don't have any major announcements this month. Construction for our fleet maintenance building is coming along very well but we do not have an opening date as of yet. Refurbishment of Fire Station 2 is also in process and we will give an update as soon as we have one.
Congratulations to everybody who received an award or promoted. Hope everyone has a great month."
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Created by the Public Relations Division. Thanks for reading!
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