Now, more than ever, is the time to stay vigilant. As businesses begin to reopen amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and some schools begin in-person teaching, it is critical that we persevere in keeping ourselves and the communities we serve safe. Now is not the time to let our guard down.

While there is evidence of declining infections and hospitalizations, this virus still poses a real threat and demands our utmost attention. That is the reason the Orange County Fire Chiefs Association developed a Safety Stand Down campaign for local fire agencies to participate in during the week of September 21, 2020. This pandemic has caused tremendous stress in the fire service and we are working hard to address it. As such, behavioral health is a key focus of the Safety Stand Down and must be foremost on everyone’s mind in the fire service.

All fire service personnel will have access to four Safety Stand Down videos and resource documents, and are asked to discuss the vital importance of continued diligent use of PPE, hand-washing, physical distancing, and most significantly, unity. Some have relaxed their views regarding COVID-19 protective measures, which can have dire consequences, if unchecked. We must stay in this fight and take care of each other, together!

As a part of this Safety Stand Down, fire service personnel across Orange County are requested to view the Safety Stand Down videos and review the available documents. Please discuss practical steps that can be taken to maintain cohesion during this time of stress and avoid allowing fatigue or personal views to weaken our individual or collective level of safety.

Together, the Orange County Fire Service and the communities we serve will emerge from this deadly pandemic stronger, united and whole!

Fire Chief Dan Stefano, President

Orange County Fire Chiefs Association

First Responder Safety

Family Resources

Personal Protective Equipment

Behavioral Health