CSFA Agency Spotlight: Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue

Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue has been an integral part of the community for nearly a century, providing essential emergency services and ensuring the safety of its residents. Established in 1925, this year marks a significant milestone as the department celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Today, the department looks a lot different than it did 100 years ago. In the past year, Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue responded to 13,750 calls for service, a clear reflection of the city’s dynamic and growing community. Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue operates out of six strategically located fire stations, with 85 sworn and 11 non-sworn personnel. Daily staffing consists of 27 personnel, 11 of whom are firefighter paramedics. These firefighters and firefighter/paramedics are deployed across four ALS engine companies, one ALS Rescue, and two tractor-drawn aerial (TDA) trucks. Additionally, one of these TDA truck companies also operates as a paramedic assessment unit and cross-staffs a Regional Type 1 Urban Search and Rescue unit. Additionally, three BLS ambulances are strategically deployed out of Fire Stations 1, 3, and 5 and support a robust ambulance transportation program.

Our department leadership consists of one Fire Chief, two Assistant Chiefs (Operations and Fire Marshal), and three Battalion Chiefs. Additionally, there are two administrative captain positions, including the Training, Safety, and Professional Standards Captain and the EMS Captain. An administrative staff of one Executive Secretary and one Senior Management Analyst accompanies these leadership positions as well. Our Community Risk Reduction (CRR) division consists of the Fire Marshal, two Assistant Fire Marshals, three Fire Protection Specialists, one Code Enforcement Officer, one Administrative Assistant, and 3 Interns that support both Administrative and CRR duties. CRR leads the way by providing a dynamic approach to reducing the risks of fire-related incidents. Another strategy this division employs is analyzing data and identifying high-risk areas, so they can allocate resources and provide educational programs effectively. Community workshops, fire safety presentations, and school programs are only some of the proactive initiatives that highlight CRR’s commitment to fire prevention.

Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue places a strong emphasis on specialized programs such as its Cadet Program, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and Citizens Fire Academy, recognizing their vital role in building a safer and more connected community. The Cadet Program provides youth with mentorship, hands-on training, and leadership development opportunities, helping prepare the next generation of fire service professionals. The Community Emergency Response Team and Citizens Fire Academy are designed to enhance public knowledge, emergency preparedness, and foster meaningful community engagement. By investing in these initiatives, the department strengthens public trust, encourages civic involvement, and ensures residents are better equipped to respond during emergencies.

With the rapid growth of the wildland arena, CMFR has responded by adding three OES fire engines to its fleet. In 2019, CMFR acquired an OES, Type 1 engine. In 2021, a Type 3 engine was obtained from OES, and shortly after, in 2022, a Type 6 engine was added. These engines are cross-staffed by engine and truck companies and not only enhance our service not only at the local level, but at the regional and state level as well.

CMFR routinely travels up and down the state, providing mutual aid to jurisdictions battling wildfires. Furthermore, it is not uncommon to see these wildland fire engines in neighboring states. In 2022, CMFR had the opportunity to take part in a strike team deployment to New Mexico to help fight the Calf Canyon fire. This is a clear representation of the department’s commitment to not only protecting the community of Costa Mesa but also communities outside of its jurisdictional boundaries.

CMFR has adapted over the years and stayed ahead of the growing and ever-changing threats by maintaining its position at the forefront of technology and innovation. Usage of these advancements has allowed CMFR to consistently meet and exceed the needs of the community. The latest way Costa Mesa has adapted to these needs has been by establishing and deploying an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) program.

The addition of the UAS program has proven to be a vital resource with its effective capability to detect hazards. This program has been employed to assist with both structure and brush fires, providing invaluable perspectives during the ongoing threat assessments. A recent example demonstrating the program’s value was during a recent bomb threat. First responders utilized a drone to locate and identify the device, which enabled on-scene personnel to develop a plan to mitigate the emergency safely. This is just one of many instances that demonstrate the effectiveness and importance of this technology. As part of our commitment to public safety, Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue is actively engaged in Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) operations. Our team has played a vital role in developing and supporting Regional Task Force 10 (RTF 10), which is essential for providing specialized rescue capabilities during large-scale emergencies. This collaboration underscores our dedication to regional preparedness and effective response strategies.

Creating these specialized programs requires our personnel to continuously train to hone and perfect their skills. As a result, the department has constructed a modular, five story, state-of-the-art regional training facility. Not only will this facility allow firefighters to conduct live fire training. Firefighters will be able to train in search and rescue operations, including rope rescues and confined space rescues. The new training facility will facilitate the continued enhancement of specific skill sets for all fire service members serving in Orange County, while also fostering growth and partnership through collaboration and joint training.

On the heels of our new training tower, CMFR is moving forward with the construction of two new state-of-the-art fire stations to replace fire stations 2 and 4. Design is underway, and once again proves that our people, infrastructure, technology, and innovation remain a top priority.

The department’s community-based strategic plan encapsulates its dedication to personnel, infrastructure, service, and innovation. CMFR recognizes that its greatest asset is its team and is committed to providing the necessary training and resources needed to excel. Simultaneously, the department is actively investing in advanced infrastructure and technology to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. This plan serves as a roadmap for aligning its resources with community needs, ensuring the department adapts and responds to an ever-changing landscape.

CMFR is constantly working to meet or exceed the expectations of the community and is proud to be on the path to achieving accreditation with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), in collaboration with the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE).

This rigorous process will enhance the department’s operational effectiveness and strengthen the quality of services provided to our community. The extensive accreditation journey emphasizes CMFR’s commitment to continuous improvement, accountability, and best practices in fire service delivery.

As we celebrate our 100th anniversary, Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue embraces the future with a profound sense of duty and innovation. The progress we’ve made and the relationships we’ve cultivated within the community reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence in service. As Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue looks ahead, it is clear that respect, integrity, and compassion will continue to guide the department for many years to come. Together, we look forward to another century dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all those we serve in Costa Mesa. Here’s to a bright future ahead as we continue our mission to protect and serve.

Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue Agency Spotlight authors: Matt Chavez, Portia Neale, Fred McDowell, and Taylor Voss.