Dear Cambria Residents,

The Cambria Fire Department remained active throughout December, responding to a total of 133 incidents, marking a steady increase from 104 incidents in December 2024. This brings the year-to-date total to 1,168 calls.

In light of the recent fires across California, the Cambria Fire Department urges all residents to remain vigilant and take steps to prepare for the ongoing threat of wildfire. These events are a stark reminder of how quickly fire can escalate and the importance of year-round fire safety and wildfire preparedness.

San Luis Obispo County public safety agencies have worked together to divide the county into pre-established evacuation zones. These evacuation zones will assist first responders in more quickly determining evacuation areas during an emergency. These new zones will also allow the public to easily identify if they are in an area under an Evacuation Warning or Evacuation Order. These zones are intended for emergencies that require large-scale evacuations.

These evacuation zones differ from the Protective Action Zones (PAZ) established for emergencies at the Diablo Canyon Power Plant. PAZs remain in place for nuclear-related incidents, while evacuation zones are used for wildfires and other emergencies.

Residents are encouraged to identify their evacuation zone in advance to ensure faster response during an emergency. Click here to find your zone. Use the search bar on the upper left hand side to type in your address. Click enter, or select the appropriate address from the drop-down list that will appear. Other questions? See the Frequently Asked Questions by clicking here.

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, and cordless appliances. When damaged, improperly charged, or exposed to heat, these batteries can ignite and cause fast-moving fires.

Safety tips:

• Use manufacturer-approved chargers only
• Avoid overnight or unattended charging
• Keep batteries away from flammable materials
• Stop using batteries that are damaged or overheating
• Do not store large batteries near exits or sleeping areas

Fireplaces and natural gas appliances should be regularly inspected and maintained. Ensure venting systems remain unobstructed and functional. If you smell gas or suspect a venting issue, leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1.

The Cambria Community Services District website features a Monthly Stats page with detailed incident reports for each month. You can view the reports by clicking here.

We encourage community members to stay involved and informed by:

• Attending a Fire Protection Committee meeting
• Attending a Board of Directors meeting to hear the Fire Chief’s report and department statistics
• Attending a Cambria Fire Safe Focus Group meeting to engage in local wildfire prevention efforts
• Follow the Cambria Fire Department on social media for real-time updates
  • Instagram: www.instagram.com/cambriafiredepartment
  • Facebook: www.facebook.com/Cambriafire
• Sign up to receive Cambria Fire Department news and updates, including information about the 2026 Fire Hazard Fuel Reduction Program (FHFRP). Simply scroll to the bottom of the Cambria Community Services District website, click "Join Our Mailing List," and subscribe. It’s the best way to receive important fire department news, public safety updates, and community alerts directly to your inbox.
• Becoming a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program Member by signing up here.
• Becoming a Neighborhood Liaison. Help keep Cambria informed and prepared by signing up as a Neighborhood Liaison. Liaisons play a vital role in sharing important updates and supporting community emergency preparedness. To get started, visit the Cambria Community Services District website, click on “How You Can Participate,” and complete the registration form. Your information will help strengthen local emergency communications and outreach efforts.

Stay informed, stay safe,

Michael Burkey
Fire Chief
Cambria Fire Department
mburkey@cambriacsd.org
(805) 927-6240