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Fire chief highlights training, rescue and April 18 preparedness event
Summary
Cambria fire chief reported 84 incidents in March, outlined training (large‑area search, forcible entry, off‑road driving) and described a recent mutual‑aid cliff rescue; the district will host an emergency‑preparedness event April 18 with seminars, CPR demonstrations and free go‑bags.
Chief Michael Berkey told the board on April 9 that in March the department handled 84 incidents, including 59 medical responses, four hazardous‑condition calls, 11 public‑service assists and 10 false alarms. He said training in March focused on large‑area search techniques, forcible entry and off‑road driver training tied to a new Type‑5 engine the department is preparing to place into service.
Chief Berkey recounted a recent mutual‑aid rescue near San Simeon in which Cambria crews used onboard rescue gear to lift four non‑injured victims from a cliff area while the usual Cal Fire response lacked rope/rescue equipment. "We were able to bring 4 victims up from the cliff, back to safety," he said, thanking mutual‑aid partners and emphasizing the importance of properly equipped engines.
Board members and staff also described an April 18 emergency‑preparedness event running roughly 9 a.m.–5 p.m. that will feature seminars by a retired LA City firefighter, community‑liaison demonstrations of 'go bags,' CPR stations and free go bags distributed on a first‑come basis. Chief Berkey and General Manager McElhaney encouraged public attendance and noted the event will include a station open house on May 9.
