![Day 1 of recruit academy. Photo courtesy Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue](https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Story_Clark-County-Today-FullSizeRender.jpg)
With the additions, CCFR now has a plan for a paramedic on every rig, every day, thereby improving the speed and effectiveness of advanced life-saving capabilities
RIDGEFIELD – Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue (CCFR) held a swearing-in ceremony on March 20 for 15 new entry level firefighters and firefighter paramedics. This ceremony marks an important milestone for the district as the new staff members will greatly improve the district’s operational abilities, response times, and level of protection for the community.
The new hires are a direct result of the support for the EMS levy that was passed last year. The levy enabled CCFR to hire additional firefighters and firefighter paramedics, resulting in improved staffing for the entire district. This has allowed for 3-person crews to handle a wider range of emergencies, reducing the need for multiple units on individual incidents.
With the addition of these 15 new members, CCFR now has a plan for a paramedic on every rig, every day, thereby improving the speed and effectiveness of advanced life-saving capabilities. Additionally, CCFR is staffing additional unit(s) in the system, such as Engine 151 and adding a transport capable ambulance. This will result in better response times, improved operational abilities, and a higher level of protection for the community.
![Badge pinning. Photo courtesy Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue](https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Story_Clark-County-Today-IMG_0531.jpg)
The new members are in addition to the seven recently hired lateral entry firefighters and firefighter paramedics that were hired earlier this year – who are already assigned to engine companies, protecting the community.
CCFR’s efforts to improve staffing and operational abilities may also result in an improved Protection Class with the Washington Survey and Ratings Bureau, which could lower property insurance rates for the community.
“We are thrilled to welcome these new members to our team,” said Fire Chief John Nohr. “Their expertise and dedication will greatly improve our ability to respond to emergencies and protect our community. This is a significant step forward for our district, and we are proud to serve our community.”
![Swearing in ceremony. Photo courtesy Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue](https://www.clarkcountytoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Story_Clark-County-Today-IMG_0652.jpg)
CCFR is committed to providing the highest level of service to the community and will continue to make improvements to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. For more information regarding our upcoming open house, as well as numerous firefighter paramedic job openings, see www.clarkfr.org]www.clarkfr.org.
Clark-Cowlitz Fire Rescue (CCFR) serves 50,000 people over 125 square miles, including the cities of La Center, Ridgefield, Woodland, and the Cowlitz Indian Reservation. Our combination department includes full-time and volunteer firefighters responding to an average of 5000 fire and emergency medical calls a year. CCFR also provides a wide array of Community Risk Reduction programs including fire inspections, building plan reviews, and a Community Paramedic program. CCF&R operates under a balanced budget and has a history of passing independent financial audits by the state.
Also read:
- Harvest Days in Battle Ground coming up July 19-21The Battle Ground Festivals Association is preparing for three days of celebration, including a car cruise on Friday night, a parade on Saturday, and fireworks on Saturday night at Harvest Days.
- Organizers looking for cars for Cruise to the Shoug show on Aug. 454-40 Brewing Co. is hosting Cruise to the Shoug on Aug. 4 as a fundraiser for the Camas-Washougal Community Chest, and organizers are looking for car owners to book their spots for the show.
- Trump picks Ohio’s J.D. Vance for vice presidentFormer President Donald Trump picked U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, to serve as his vice president should Trump beat President Joe Biden this November for another term in the White House.
- Children with disabilities make memories at the 24th annual Merwin Day of FishingOn Saturday (July 13), Pacific Power and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife joined together to host a memorable fishing event for children with disabilities at the Merwin Fish Hatchery near Woodland.
- Letter: For the public record and the Comprehensive PlanIn a July 12 letter to the Clark County Council, Clark County Citizens United President Susan Rasmussen shares that primary stakeholders were ignored in the Wetland and Habitat Ordinance Conservation Covenant.
- CASE DISMISSED: Classified documents case against Trump thrown out by judgeA federal judge in Florida dismissed the classified documents-related criminal case against former President Donald Trump on Monday, saying the appointment of Special Counsel Jack Smith violated the Constitution.
- Photos: Log show and parade at Territorial Days 2024 in AmboyTerritorial Days in Amboy never disappoints, and this weekend brought all kinds of activities in logging country, and Clark County Today had a photographer there to capture images from the annual parade and log show.