I began my career with Fire District #3 (FD3) in 2006 when I was hired as a full-time firefighter/paramedic. I was introduced to the fire service in high school through the Fire Explorer program and later as a volunteer firefighter before being hired. Over the years, I have watched this community and FD3 evolve and expand significantly.

Today, FD3 is the largest fire and emergency services provider in Clallam County, covering 142 square miles and serving approximately 40,000 residents. FD3’s extensive response capabilities range from structure fires and medical emergencies to wildland incidents and technical rescues.

FD3 operates from six fire stations throughout the district. Three of them (Blyn, Carlsborg and Sequim) are staffed 24/7 by career personnel working 48-hour shifts. The remaining three are staffed by highly committed volunteers who respond from home or work on an as-needed basis.

In 2024, FD3 responded to 9,189 emergency calls, a number that continues to rise each year. The daily career staffing is a minimum of 10 career firefighters with up to 15 on duty at times.

FD3’s response model is supported by a workforce of 50 career firefighters and 52 volunteers. All career staff are trained to a minimum of Firefighter I and II standards and hold certifications as either EMT-Basics or paramedics. Becoming an EMT requires at least 120 hours of training, while paramedics complete over 1,400 hours of training, showing the rigorous preparation involved in delivering high-quality emergency medical care.

Providing consistent, high-level training to such a diverse and active team is no small task. In May 2023, I assumed the role of battalion chief for B Shift and took on the responsibility of overseeing the FD3’s training program. Although 82% of emergency calls are Emergency Medical Services (EMS)-related, personnel are trained across a broad spectrum of disciplines to ensure they are prepared for any situation. In 2024 alone, FD3 members completed a remarkable 17,685 hours of combined training.

Both career and volunteer members complete frequent training to meet federal and state requirements, as well as ongoing training to remain proficient in various Fire/EMS disciplines. In addition, FD3 regularly conducts specialized training sessions and real-life scenario exercises. These opportunities enhance skill proficiency, improve muscle memory, and build confidence within personnel.

Below are several highlights from our recent training calendar:

• Township Line Acquired Structure Training

In November 2023, FD3 received a donated residential structure with a complex and unconventional layout, which made it perfect for realistic training. Crews conducted drills in fire attack, search and rescue, and Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) operations.

In January 2024, FD3 hosted a live burn exercise at the same site, with participation from 42 FD3 members alongside Clallam County Fire #2 and Port Angeles Fire. After extensive preparation, crews successfully completed 16 live fire burns in a single day, exceeding expectations and gaining invaluable experience.

• Rescue Systems 1 Technical Training

In June 2024, FD3 members joined forces with neighboring agencies for a four-day technical rescue course focused on structural collapse scenarios. These advanced skills help prepare personnel for low-frequency, high-risk incidents.

• Auto Extrication Training

In October 2024, FD3 hosted two 8-hour classes on vehicle extrication. With 24 students, the course covered stabilization, triage, tool use, tactics, and hands-on scenarios. Roughly a dozen vehicles were used for practice, giving firefighters invaluable real-world experience.

• Driver/Operator Pump Academy

In April 2025, FD3 launched its first-ever Driver/Operator Pump Academy. This five-day intensive course provided in-depth training on driving and operating fire engines and water tenders. Firefighters sharpened their skills and tackled problem-solving scenarios in realistic conditions. Thirteen members completed the program successfully, and the academy is expected to become a recurring training opportunity.

• Matson Road Acquired Structure Training

In May 2024, one of our most recent training opportunities took place at a residence scheduled for demolition in Agnew. Thanks to the generous property owner, crews trained extensively over two weeks.

The first week included evolutions in fire attack, search and rescue, window and wall breaching, and firefighter removal techniques. The following week, firefighters practiced vertical ventilation, a technique involving cutting an opening in the roof to release smoke and heat. In total, this training opportunity provided 214 combined hours of hands-on experience.

FD3 is proud to serve this community and believes that training is the foundation of effective emergency response. FD3’s firefighters are committed to sharpening their skills because staying ready means serving the community better when it matters most.

For more information about FD3, please visit ccfd3.org.