Big Bear Fire Department - Experts & Thought Leaders

The Big Bear Fire Department has a new way to report illegal fireworks. The new Illegal Firework Reporting System offers an easy and anonymous way to report the use and sale of personal fireworks. Anyone can now go on to the Department’s website or simply scan a QR Code and anonymously report the use or sales of illegal fireworks by completing a simple online reporting form. Fire Department Investigators will respond promptly to the reported location where fireworks are currently in use, or being sold. Author's quote Possession of any type of personal fireworks, including “safe and sane” fireworks, is against the law in any part of the Big Bear Valley. “The use of illegal fireworks places the entire community, as well as our first responders at risk,” stated Big Bear Fire Marshal Mike Maltby. With the mountain areas facing another very dangerous wildland fire season, the Big Bear Fire Department has increased its vigilance in enforcing state and county firework laws to protect public health and safety. The possession, use or sales of illegal fireworks is subject to fines up to $1,000 with the possibility of arrest.

A residential structure fire was reported in the 42000 Block of Sonoma Drive, Big Bear Lake, at approximately 1:41 pm, on Tuesday, November 1, 2022. Upon arrival, fire crews observed smoke and flames to the exterior of the wood-framed living space above the garage. Crews quickly extinguished the fire within approximately 10 minutes. Fire crews remained on the scene for an hour to ensure completed extinguishment. The occupants of the home self-evacuated prior to the fire crew's arrival. Structure fire required all units from Big Bear Fire Department The structure fire required all units from the Big Bear Fire Department to respond with assistance from San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department; Battalion Chief Dan Rogers was on-scene and in command of the response. The cause of the fire is under investigation by Big Bear Fire Department.

Fire Chief Jeff Willis is pleased to announce that Big Bear Fire Department has acquired a new ambulance. The Department received delivery of MA-281, a 2022 Dodge 3500 4x4, on October 20, 2022. Powered by a Cummins Diesel engine and manufactured by Braun Northwest, the new ambulance has the same configuration as others in the Department’s fleet, which allows for standardization and a smooth transition in on-scene operations. The new ambulance is currently being stocked with medical supplies and equipment, and will go into service immediately. Modern emergency vehicles The acquisition of the new ambulance was made possible as part of a larger financing package with favorable interest rates. The financing package enabled the Department to purchase this ambulance and other apparatus consisting of a new fire engine and fire truck, which are yet to be delivered. The new apparatus is part of a three-year fleet replacement plan of outdated units, and allows for the procurement of reliable and modern emergency vehicles that are within budget restrictions with payments over time through financing. Once in service, the new ambulance will be housed at Station 281 in Big Bear Lake.