Evaluating the Performance of Rural Fire Departments in California: Discerning Appropriate Indicators

Fire statistics show that fire-related deaths and property loss is higher in rural communities when compared to urban communities. Even though fire department performance is an important aspect in preventing fire-related incidents, there are no standardized indicators that these departments are required to follow. A review of eleven rural communities in California showed that volunteer firefighters lacked the training recommended by the California State Fire Marshal. Most of the fire stations were in fair to poor condition and required significant repairs to make them operational. The ISO ratings received by the eleven communities indicated that most of the fire stations did not possess adequate fire station facilities, water supplies, communication services, and staffing levels. These communities indicated that they referred to NFPA 1720 for guidance in evaluating performance. They also referred to State Fire Marshal requirements for training. However, because NFPA 1720 recommendation are not mandated , the fire departments do not always follow the criteria recommended. Because the State Fire Marshal does not stipulate a deadline for training requirements, many fire departments disregard this requirement. For fire departments to adhere to identified indicators, they need to be specified in the community ordinance or outlined as a requirement in the emergency preparedness plan for the community