Jefferson County Announces Public Review Period for the 2024 Jefferson County Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Jefferson County, in collaboration with SWCA Environmental Consultants, is pleased to announce the beginning of the public review period for the 2024 Jefferson County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). The review period is scheduled from May 1, 2024, through May 15, 2024.
The 2024 Jefferson County CWPP is a collaborative effort to enhance the safety and resilience of our community from uncharacteristic wildfires. This plan aims to identify and address vulnerabilities while emphasizing the protection of lives, property, and valued resources.
Jefferson County seeks to actively engage the county’s community members before the CWPP is finalized and released. We invite all community members (full and part-time residents, property owners, individuals in the workforce) to review the draft CWPP and provide comments, questions, and other feedback to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with the unique needs of our community. Your participation in this phase of the project is greatly appreciated and will help to create a robust approach to wildfire preparedness.
Public feedback is instrumental in shaping a comprehensive and responsive plan for wildfire mitigation. The draft CWPP will be available for review and comment starting on May 1, 2024. To access the draft CWPP and participate in the review process, interested parties can visit our dedicated website Jefferson County CWPP Hub site. To submit comments on the draft, participants can visit the comment submission form at https://arcg.is/1aXme90.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the community members, organizations, and agencies involved in this collaborative endeavor. Together, we will create a proactive path towards a more resilient, fire-adapted Jefferson County.
For more information or to ask any questions, please contact Project Manager, Emily Geery, at egeery@swca.com. For Jefferson County, please contact Commissioner Heidi Eisenhour, County Commissioner, at HEisenhour@co.jefferson.wa.us
CPR Training to be held at Station 6, May 22nd – 04-26-24
Details and sign up can be found at Eventbrite.com
Wildland Preparedness Day, Port Townsend Farmers Market, May 4th – 04-26-24
May 4th is Wildland Community Preparedness Day – East Jefferson Fire Rescue (EJFR), in collaboration with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (WA DNR) will be hosting a booth at the Port Townsend Farmers Market. Wildfire Community Preparedness Day is a campaign that encourages people and organizations everywhere to come together on a single day to take action to raise awareness and reduce wildfire risks. It is held annually in the United States and Canada on the first Saturday in May and is sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Wildfire season may arrive early this year. According to calculations constructed from data collected by the Western Regional Climate Center, our area is measuring 7.31 inches below average in rainfall as of April 20th. Due to higher-than-normal spring temperatures and low humidity, our District has already experienced three brush fires in the first four months of 2024. Two of the three brush fires were caused by burning weeds and the other was sparked by a downed powerline.
DNR, Fire Chief Bret Black and other will be available to answer your questions about how you can prepare your home against possible wildfire damage. “One sentiment that I want to echo is to not only take precautions to protect your home and family, but to look out for your neighbors as well,” commented Chief Black. “Take time to assist neighbors that might not be able to improve the defensible space around their home due to physical limitations. Working together as a community greatly improves our resilience against the threat of wildfires.”
The WA DNR advises “Your goal now, before a fire happens, is to make your home or business and the surrounding area more resistant to catching fire and burning. This means reducing the amount of material that can burn easily in and around your home or business by clearing away debris and other flammable materials, and using fire-resistant materials for landscaping and construction.”
The Port Townsend Farmers Market runs from 9am – 2pm on Saturday in uptown Port Townsend. We hope to see you there.
EJFR Volunteer Station 5 Dedication – 4/26/24
In a small ceremony on Marrowstone Island, EJFR and members of the community gathered to commemorate the opening of EJFR crew quarters at Volunteer Station 5.
April 20, 2024 – Facebook post
CPR Training to be held at Station 6, March 20th – 2/6/24
Details and sign up can be found at Eventbrite.com
Basic CERT Training scheduled for February 17th – 1/29/24
Jefferson County Department of Emergency Management will hold a CERT Basic Training class beginning Feb 17, 2024 at the Cape George Fire House. Classes begin at 9:00 am, end at 4:00 pm, and will be held on Feb 17, Feb 24, Mar 2, Mar 9 & Mar 16. The class is open to all individuals residing in Jefferson County, 16 years and older. Space is allocated on a first come, first served basis. Attendance at all 9 sessions is mandatory for completion of the course.
Contact the CERT Program Manager at LGuth@co.jefferson.wa.us to sign up for the class.
Now accepting applications for Firefighter/Paramedic Lateral and Entry-Level 1/23/24
East Jefferson Fire Rescue is accepting lateral and entry-level firefighter paramedic applications. The next testing opportunity is March 15, 2024 – applications due March 8th.
Application information available here.
2024 Winter Weather Center Info
Winter Weather Info 12/13/23
Emergency Alerts – 8/4/23
Regarding alerts sent out about the Beaver Valley Road brush fire on August 1, 2023
What are Wireless Emergency Alerts?
- Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are free messages sent directly to your cell phone, warning you about severe weather, AMBER Alerts and threats to safety in your area.
- WEAs are sent to you by your state and local public safety officials, the National Weather Service, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the U.S. Geological Survey and the President.
Why am I receiving duplicate WEAs?
There are two possible reasons you may receive duplicate WEAs:
- Your phone is sending “reminders” of the alert. It will depend on your phone operating system, but you will need to “clear” the alert to mark it as received. You can turn off reminders in your phone settings as well. Many phones have this in their Settings application somewhere under “Wireless Emergency Alerts” and you can choose to not receive reminders if an Alert has been sent, or change the frequency.
- These alerts are sent to users through the phone towers they are connected to. If you have been traveling you may receive multiple alerts due to connecting to a new phone tower.
Jefferson County Emergency Management is aware of these issues and are working to alleviate them.
To find out if your phone can receive WEA alerts, contact your wireless provider. All the major providers participate in WEA on a voluntary basis. It will take time for upgrades in infrastructure, coverage and handset technology to allow WEA enhancements to reach all cellular customers.
For more information, visit: https://fema.gov/ipaws
NIXLE: Public Safety Text Messaging Service
NIXLE is a text and email notification service utilized by law enforcement, fire departments, emergency management, city and county government agencies to notify subscribers of public safety related incidents to include road closures, weather-related events and other potential hazards.
Sidewalk CPR coming to PT Farmers Market
EJFR will host a “Sidewalk CPR” booth at the Port Townsend Farmers Market on July 29th. Stop by the booth and get a quick lesson in hands-only CPR.
If you’re looking for more in-depth training, EJFR is offering a FREE friends and family CPR course on August 2nd. Sign up here.
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Burning Restrictions Updated – 6/29/23
Burn restriction level has been updated to high – no recreational fires allowed.
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Burning Restrictions in Place – 6/4/23
2023 Press release Burn Restrictions
The 2023 summer season is here! Due to the above average temperatures and the lack of precipitation, an earlier than normal dry season is upon us. Because of this, the potential for wild land fires is extreme.
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Two fun Events for Kids!
May 6th: Bike Rodeo with PTPD, the PT Library, EJFR and more – free helmets available – 8am – 4pm
May 13th: Touch a Truck with Kiwanis, EJFR and many local businesses – 10am – 2pm
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Be Wildfire Ready
Whether you rent, own a vacation home, own a forested property, or just live in a home with a backyard, we offer clear steps to help you prepare for wildfires. It all starts with your community. Step one is to engage with your neighbors and develop a plan, because one of our best defenses against wildfire is collaboration.
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EJFR Fights Fire at the Paper Mill – 12/13/22
Burn Ban Lifted – 10/24/22
Land clearing and burning of yard debris is now allowed within regular limitations and permitting processes. See burn ban guide for details.
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Burn Ban – 3rd Extension 10/17/22
Burn restrictions remain in place for another week. Recreational fires are allowed at this time.
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Burn Ban – 2nd Extension 10/10/22
Based on the information obtained from the DNR, and recent weather forecasts the Fire Chiefs of East Jefferson County are in agreement to continue burn restrictions at a moderate level. This will allow for recreational campfires, briquettes, shooting, etc. The Fire Chiefs also agree to extend the debris burn restrictions as per County ordinance, with another review of current weather and atmospheric conditions on Monday October 17, 2022.
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Burn Ban Extended 9/29/22
Based on the information obtained from the DNR, the Fire Chiefs of East Jefferson County have agreed to lower the fire restrictions to a moderate level. This will allow for recreational campfires, BBQ briquettes, shooting, etc. The Fire Chiefs also agree to extend the debris burn restrictions per County ordinance. The restrictions will be reviewed again on Monday October 10th based on current atmospheric conditions and possible rain accumulation.
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East Jefferson Fire Rescue kept busy this morning with two unrelated fires in the District 9/22/22
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Burn Ban Update 9/9/22
Total Burn Ban Now In Effect for Jefferson County
Red Flag Warning 9/6/22
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Red Flag warning through midnight Saturday Sept. 10 for wind and low relative humidity for fire weather in Jefferson County and eleven other northwest counties.
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Burn Ban On as of July 1 – 6/29/22
The Fire Chiefs of East Jefferson County, have called for a county-wide ban on outdoor burning other than recreational fires, in the best interest, and safety of the public, fire fighters, and first responders. A countywide burn ban limiting all Land Clearing burns will begin July 1st and continue through September 30, 2022 or until further notice. The ban was recommended by the Jefferson County Board of Fire Chiefs, the Jefferson County Fire Marshal, and the Board of County Commissioners and established under Jefferson County Resolution No. 30-05. The burn ban does not apply to recreational fires at this time.
Current Burning Restrictions in Place
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Celebrate Safely – 6/28/22
Fireworks Safety Tips
Using consumer fireworks on our nation’s birthday is as traditional as cookouts and parades. However, Independence Day celebrations also bring fires and injuries due to misuse of fireworks.
East Jefferson Fire Rescue, along with the Office of the State Fire Marshal and local law enforcement agencies urges Jefferson County residents and visitors to use caution when purchasing and using fireworks outside Port Townsend city limits. Use of fireworks within Port Townsend city limits is banned. Possession or discharge of any fireworks is illegal within city limits.
Washington State Legal Consumer Fireworks
Legal fireworks suitable for use in unrestricted areas of Jefferson County include the following: cylindrical fountains, helicopters and aerial spinners, cone fountains, smoke devices, Roman candles, parachutes, wheels, mine/shells/cakes, ground spinners, reloadable mortars, dipped sticks/sparklers and novelties.
Federally Legal Consumer Fireworks
These items are legal to purchase, possess and discharge only on a Native American Reservation. Possession and/or use off the reservation is illegal: firecrackers (generally ¼” x 1-1/2” or less), sky rockets and missiles and bottle rockets.
Illegal Explosive Devices
The possession, manufacturing or use of illegal explosive devices is a criminal offense. These include, but are not limited to: M-80s and M-100s, Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) which include pipe bombs and tennis ball bombs, and altered fireworks such as sparklers bound tightly together to create an explosion.
The National Council on Fireworks Safety recommends that you only buy consumer fireworks from a licensed store, tent or stand. Never buy fireworks from an individual’s house or from someone on the street. Such devices are likely to be illegal explosives or professional 1.3G fireworks that can seriously injure you.
RCW 70.77 states that the ignition of fireworks is allowable between the following dates and times:
June 28: Between noon and 11 p.m.
June 29 – July 3: Between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m.
July 4: Between 9 a.m. and 12 a.m.
July 5: Between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Please use care in the purchase and discharge of fireworks. Do not light them indoors or near dry grass. Always have a bucket of water and/or fire extinguisher nearby. Wear snug clothing while using fireworks. If a device fails to go off properly, do not stand over it to investigate it or try to relight it. Wait at least 15 minutes before placing it in a bucket of water.
Have a safe and happy Independence Day!
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East Jefferson Fire Rescue & Port Ludlow Fire & Rescue To Formally Pursue a Merge 6/17/22
Jefferson County, WA – During the past year, Port Ludlow and East Jefferson Fire Districts have increased collaboration in an effort to get the most out of our available resources while continuing to deliver outstanding emergency services. In order to realize further efficiencies, the boards of commissioners at each district have decided to formally pursue full integration of our resources, and directed staff to develop a plan leading to a merger of the two districts.
“There is a lot of work ahead. The community and media can expect plenty of engagement as we capture input, gather information and put the steps in place to provide even better service by joining forces. Our collective goal is to be as efficient as possible with our resources while continuing to enhance the emergency services for our communities,” stated Chief Black
East Jefferson Fire Rescue has been providing management services to Port Ludlow Fire & Rescue since May 2021 via interlocal agreement – the agreement extends to September 1, 2022.
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Strategic Plan Survey – We Need Your Input 2/22/22
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Board of Commissioner Vacancy 1/25/22
East Jefferson Fire Rescue is seeking Fire Commissioner Candidate applicants to represent Commissioner District #2. The Board will appoint an individual in February 2022 to fill one commissioner vacancy. Applicants are required to submit a letter of interest, resume and application to the Board Secretary no later than February 11, 2022 at 4 PM. Letters of recommendation from local community leaders will be reviewed. Applications may be submitted via email, humanresources@ejfr.org or US Mail to the District administrative office located at 24 Seton Rd, Port Townsend WA 98368.
Commissioner Applicant Information
Commissioner Candidate Application
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Pfizer Vaccination Clinics for Ages 5-11 set for December 4 & 18 11/23/21
JEFFERSON COUNTY—Two Pfizer vaccination clinics for children ages 5-11 will happen in December. The clinics will provide first and second doses of vaccine. A second dose should occur at least three weeks after the first dose. Appointments are required. Details:
- Saturday, December 4, 9 AM-12 PM, Blue Heron Middle School, 3939 San Juan Ave, Port Townsend. Schedule online: https://prepmod.doh.wa.gov//appointment/en/reg/9124679067 or call the Department of Emergency Management Call Center at 360-344-9791, M-F 9 AM-5 PM.
- Saturday, December 18, 9 AM-12 PM, Chimacum Junior/Senior High School Multi-Purpose Room, 93 West Valley Road, Chimacum. Schedule online: https://prepmod.doh.wa.gov//appointment/en/reg/9069924918 or call the Department of Emergency Management Call Center at 360-344-9791, M-F 9 AM-5 PM.
Parents of children receiving a second dose should bring proof of their child’s first dose.
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Vaccination Clinics for Ages 5-11 Set for November 13 & 20 11/5/21
JEFFERSON COUNTY—Two Pfizer vaccination clinics exclusively for ages 5-11 will happen on the following dates:
- Saturday, November 13, 9 AM-12 PM, Blue Heron Middle School, 3939 San Juan Avenue, Port Townsend. Make an appointment by following the link: https://prepmod.doh.wa.gov//appointment/en/reg/2512296074 or call the Department of Emergency Management Call Center at 360-344-9791, M-F 9 AM-5 PM.
- Saturday, November 20, 9 AM-12 PM Chimacum High School, 91 W Valley Rd, Chimacum. Make an appointment by following the link: https://prepmod.doh.wa.gov//appointment/en/reg/2269590821
Or call the Department of Emergency Management Call Center at 360-344-9791, M-F 9 AM-5 PM.
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Jefferson County COVID Vaccine Booster Clinic Announced 10/28/21
- Saturday, November 6, 1 PM-4 PM, Chimacum School, 91 West Valley Road, Chimacum. Enter the clinic off West Valley Road from Highway 19.
- Saturday, November 13, 1 PM-4 PM, Blue Heron Middle School, 3939 San Juan Avenue, Port Townsend.
ShakeOut Drill set for Oct. 21 at 10:21AM
The 2021 ShakeOut Drill is scheduled for October 21 at 10:21AM in our area.
The All Hazard sirens will go off at 10:21AM on Oct. 21.
It is important to drill the DROP, COVER and HOLD ON procedure for the simple reason that practice makes perfect.
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Burn Ban Canceled 9/30/21
As of September 30, 2021, the Washington State Department of Natural Recourses here on the Olympic Peninsula advised the fire danger as low. In an effort to align with our neighbors and as agreed upon by the Jefferson County Fire Chief’s Association, the established 2021 countywide burn ban per county code 43-05 will be canceled, beginning October 1, 2021.
Land clearing burning will be allowed by permit only. Requirements for recreational fires remain the same, which are defined by the international fire code (2015 IFC – Section 307) and the Washington State Administrative code (173-425-050). Outdoor fire burning materials other than rubbish where the fuel being burned is not contained in an incinerator, outdoor fire place, portable outdoor fire place, barbeque grill or barbeque pit and has a total fuel area of 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking, warmth or similar purpose. Fires used for debris or rubbish disposal are not considered recreational fires and are illegal.
All county-wide burning is subject to immediate closure at any time, in the event air stagnation conditions or poor environmental conditions exists as determined by the Washington State Department of Ecology, the Olympic Region Clean Air Authority, the Department of Natural Resources in conjunction with the Jefferson County Fire Chiefs and the Jefferson County Fire Marshal.
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Burn Ban Reduced 9/20/21
RECREATIONAL FIRE AND THE USE OF BRIQUETTES ALLOWED
The Jefferson County Fire Chiefs and the Jefferson County Fire Marshal agree to reduce the established burn ban related to recreational fires and the use of briquettes established on July 1, 2021.
The Chiefs are basing their decision in conjunction with our State and Federal partners. Though there has been some precipitation, the County has not seen any significant wetting recovery. The majority of Jefferson County has received under two inches of rain over the last three months. Currently we are experiencing cooler than usual temperatures and higher relative humidity. The current “Fire Danger Rating” shows the majority of the county on the low end of moderate. Jefferson County is still within the moderate draught category. The amended burn ban now allows for campfires and the use of charcoal briquettes within Jefferson County.
Per County ordinance, a burn ban is still in effect for all land clearing / debris burring within Jefferson County. Current atmospheric conditions will be evaluated on September 30, 2021 to determine if the burn ban will be extended.
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Fire Danger Moves from Moderate to High 7/22/21
Effective 7/23/2021 at 0001 the fire danger for Clallam, Jefferson and Grays Harbor Counties will be going from Moderate to High.
Fire Danger information is available on the DNR Website.
Weekend Incident Highlights Importance of Adhering to the Burn Ban 7/10/21
On July 10th, units of Port Ludlow Fire & Rescue, East Jefferson Fire Rescue and other local emergency partners responded to a small bush fire outside of a home in the Shine area. The resident was doing yard maintenance when a small ember blew into the shrubs and immediately took off causing heavy flames and thick smoke. Even the mulch burned. At the time the wind was 5-7 mph gusting to 10 mph, fanning the blaze. Luckily the resident and neighbors were able to contain the fire with garden hoses until the fire department arrived and fully extinguished the flames.
EJFR Chief, Bret Black noted: “This was a close call that could have been a major fire. It highlights why we have a total burn ban in Jefferson County that prohibits any type of outdoor burning. If that shrub had been touching the house, it likely would have been a different outcome.
“We want the public to be aware that a flying ember can be caused by any number of outside activities, including grilling on a wood or charcoal BBQ, a campfire in a fire pit, or even tossing a lit cigarette butt or flicking an ash. For the next few months our area will continue to have low fuel moisture and relative humidity. Plants that look green and healthy are receptive fuel beds for ignition…. nature is ready to burn this time of year. Please help us keep you and your neighbors safe.”
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2021 Burn Ban Update – 7/2/21
Hot weather pushing wildfire danger toward an early start 7/2/21
Residents should prepare for wildfire smoke before the need
With the above-average temperatures we are experiencing, wildfire season is now here.
Wildfire season typically runs from July through September however, the National Weather Service shows this year’s season will likely ramp up quickly and could last longer because of the warmer, dryer weather.
Now is the time to begin preparing for the possibility of wildfire smoke to invade Jefferson County in the coming weeks and months.
Creating a clean air space inside your home is the best way to get relief from wildfire smoke. More information can be found here.
You can also create your own low-cost air filter using a box fan and air filter to improve air quality in a single room in your home.
Have several days of water, groceries, and family needs on hand so you don’t have to go out when it’s smoky.
Don’t forget your pets: If the air quality is forecasted to be poor while you’re away from home, plan ahead to keep your pets inside or with a caregiver.
Wildfire smoke may increase the severity of symptoms for people with COVID-19. Individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 may be more vulnerable to wildfire smoke due to potential long-term damage from COVID in the lungs.
Stay informed about Washington Smoke Information
Local burn ban information can be found here.
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Fireworks are Dangerous – Celebrate Safely 7/1/21
Using consumer fireworks on our nation’s birthday is as traditional as cookouts and parades. However, Independence Day celebrations also bring fires and injuries due to misuse of fireworks.
East Jefferson Fire Rescue, along with the Office of the State Fire Marshal and local law enforcement agencies urges Jefferson County residents and visitors to use caution when purchasing and using fireworks outside Port Townsend city limits. Use of fireworks within Port Townsend city limits is banned. Possession or discharge of any fireworks is illegal within city limits.
2021 Land Clearing Burn Ban Established 6/25/21
Due to the anticipated above average temperatures and extreme natural fuels available, the Fire Chiefs of East Jefferson County, in the best interest and safety of the public, have set into effect a countywide burn ban limiting all land clearing burning beginning June 25 through September 30, 2021 or until further notice. The burn ban does not currently apply to recreational fires or barbeques.
The burn ban will be in effect for all land clearing burns within Jefferson County, as recommended by the Jefferson County Board of Fire Chiefs and the Jefferson County Fire Marshal, established under Jefferson County Resolutions No. 42-05 and 43-05. Establishing the burn ban earlier than July 1st brings Jefferson County into alignment with Kitsap County, and Clallam County. In addition, as of June 23, 2021 DNR Olympic upgraded fire danger to moderate, meaning all land clearing burning on State Lands is banned.
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Single-Role EMT – 6/18/21
Next Assessment Center opportunity: July 28th, 2021
East Jefferson Fire Rescue is establishing an eligibility list for the position of Single Role EMT (SR-EMT.)
The SR-EMT is a non-firefighter (non-combatant) position that provides BLS care and transport of patients as part of the inter-facility transport service agreement with Jefferson Healthcare. In addition to inter-facility transports, an SR-EMT may deliver expanded role emergency medical services such as emergency incident rehabilitation, mobile integrated healthcare, and injury reduction/prevention programs.
Single-Role EMT Job Description
IAFF Local 2032 Collective Bargaining Agreement
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Smoke Alarm Recall – 5/27/21
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website, about 226,000 alarm units are being recalled due to a possible failure to alert consumers to a fire. The recalled units are the Kidde Model Series 2040, 2050, 2060, and 2070 Smoke and Combination Smoke/Carbon Monoxide alarms. Only alarms with the TruSense logo or “AMBER=FAULT” printed on the front of the alarm are included in this recall. The model number is printed on the back of the alarm.
While there have been no incidents or injuries reported, consumers are advised to immediately contact Kidde for a free replacement alarm. Kidde Support can be reached at toll-free (844) 796-9972 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. ET on Saturday or online at www.kiddetsalarmrecall.rsvpcomm.com or www.kidde.com and click on “Support” and then “Product Alerts” for more information. Consumers are advised to keep using the recalled alarms until they install replacement alarms.
For more information, visit the Recall Announcement on the CPSC website or call the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3929.
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