LA County Fire Department outlines community programs and targeted recruitment in Temple City briefing

Assistant Fire Chief Paul Stum of the Los Angeles County Fire Department told Temple City Council on Feb. 3 that the department provides a range of public-safety programs beyond emergency response, from public education and CERT training to youth engagement and career pathways.

"Our community engagement is a core strategy for building a safer, more resilient LA County," Stum said, describing programs such as CERT, sidewalk CPR and ReadySetGo evacuation planning. He said the department visits schools and community centers during Fire Prevention Month and runs youth programs including Explore, Girls Fire Camp and Junior Lifeguards.

Stum said the department also runs specialized initiatives such as Sirens of Silence for residents with sensory sensitivities, a water-watcher drowning-prevention program and a confidential baby-surrender option. He said many offerings are described on the department’s website: "www.fire.lacounty.gov."

During a question-and-answer exchange on recruitment, Stum said the department currently faces a shortage in certified paramedics and is running a targeted recruitment and testing process that prioritizes paramedic-certified applicants and anticipates starting a training class in April. "Right now as we speak... our staff is low on paramedics," he said, and described efforts to streamline hiring and training.

Council members and staff thanked department personnel for station tours and coordination with local events. Stum invited council members and community groups to request station tours and described points of contact for program interest and scheduling.

The presentation concluded with council and staff expressing appreciation for the department’s response capabilities and community outreach.

Next steps: Stum directed interested residents and groups to the LA County Fire Department website for program schedules and recruitment details.