San Bernardino County Professional Firefighters Local 935
IAFF Local 935 is a labor organization that represents the men and women of the San Bernardino County Fire Departments in Big Bear City, Big Bear Lake, Colton, Loma Linda, and Montclair.
The International Association of Fire Fighters Local 935 is the labor organization that represents the men and women of the San Bernardino County Firefighters and the affiliate membership of the Colton, Loma Linda, Big Bear, and Montclair Fire Departments.
The Fire Fighters of Local 935 pride themselves on over 100 years of service to the communities within San Bernardino County. Each year, Local 935 Firefighters give their time and money to the local communities to foster relationships and serve those with special needs.
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is the driving force behind nearly every advance in the fire and emergency services in the 21st century.
We’re more than just a union; we’re a movement, a brotherhood and sisterhood that is powering advancements in fire and emergency services in the United States, Canada, and around the world.
With offices in Washington, D.C., and Ottawa, Ontario, the IAFF is the fire service’s strongest voice at the federal level. Our Political Action Committee, FIREPAC, is among the top one-half of 1% of all federally registered PACs in the United States.
Today, 85% of communities across the U.S. and Canada are protected by our over 365,000 members.
PHOTO OF THE DAY | APRIL 9, 2026 | A CONVERSATION, NOT A CALL
Not every connection with County Fire starts with an emergency. Sometimes it starts with a question across a table.
This archive photo captures a conversation beside a training display. The equipment may catch someone's attention, but the person on the other side of the table matters just as much. A few minutes to listen, explain the work and meet face to face can make the uniform feel a little more familiar.
Local 935 values these everyday connections with the communities our members serve. There is room in our story for the quieter moments, too.
Have you had a memorable conversation with a firefighter at a station visit or community event? What stayed with you? Please leave personal medical details out of the comments.
SERVICE • PROFESSIONALISM • DEDICATION
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San Bernardino County Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 935, proudly endorses Virginia Marquez for San Bernardino City Council, Ward 1, in the November 3 election. #Local935 ...
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Training today for the calls ahead
Several Division 5 engine companies came together today for hands-on vehicle extrication training, with three vehicles provided by Desert Valley Towing. Positioned on their wheels, side and roof, the vehicles gave newer firefighters different challenges to work through alongside experienced crews.
On the side-resting vehicle, crews used Rescue 42 struts for stabilization, then practiced cutting roof-support pillars along one side and rolling the roof back. On the upright vehicle, they removed all four doors and the roof before displacing the dashboard to create additional room.
A controlled training environment gives firefighters time to compare approaches, observe how a vehicle responds and learn why one technique may work better than another. It is an opportunity to practice, evaluate and refine those skills before applying them at a collision.
Crews used both AMKUS hose-fed hydraulic equipment and HURST battery-powered tools. Both systems use hydraulic force. The difference is where that power comes from: the AMKUS tools connect by hose to an external power unit, while the battery-powered HURST tools carry their motor and hydraulic pump onboard.
The AMKUS GH2B power unit can operate two compatible tools simultaneously. Cordless tools eliminate the external hydraulic hoses and separate power unit at the tool, offering flexibility when moving around a vehicle. Each system brings different setup and equipment-management considerations, making familiarity with both valuable when companies work together.
Tools also serve different purposes: cutters separate vehicle components, spreaders create openings, and rams push components away to make space. The HURST R 521 ram, for example, extends to approximately 53.5 inches.
There is no single approach for every collision. Vehicle position, damage and the patient's condition guide the rescue plan. The goal is to create access for treatment and a path for removal, taking the vehicle away from the patient rather than forcing an injured person through a confined opening.
Thank you to Desert Valley Towing for providing the vehicles and supporting this hands-on training.
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San Bernardino County Professional Firefighters, IAFF Local 935, proudly endorses Joe Salas for San Bernardino City Council, Ward 4, in the November 3 election. #Local935 ...
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PHOTOS OF THE DAY | JULY 13, 2025 | NEEDLES AIRPORT AREA
At approximately 9:37 p.m., Local 935 members and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department responded to a reported fire in the desert near Needles Airport. A deputy arrived first and found a single-engine Piper aircraft fully involved in fire, allowing the call to be upgraded and responding fire companies to receive critical information before arrival.
Firefighters advanced hose lines into the dark desert, attacked the aircraft fire and prevented the flames from spreading into nearby brush. A water tender from Mohave Valley Fire Department in Arizona supported the suppression effort. Tragically, both aircraft occupants died in the crash. We extend our condolences to their families and loved ones. The Sheriff’s Aviation Division led the investigation.
This archival post is not a current incident alert. It demonstrates the challenges faced by Local 935 members serving the North Desert and Colorado River communities, including remote access, darkness, limited water supplies, extreme travel distances and the need to coordinate resources across state and jurisdictional lines. Reliable staffing, strategically located apparatus and water-tender capability are essential when emergencies occur far from additional resources.
AIRCRAFT EMERGENCY SAFETY: Never approach a crash site. Aircraft may contain fuel, batteries, pressurized systems and other hazards. Keep a safe distance, avoid smoke, call 911 and leave access routes open for emergency vehicles.
SERVICE • PROFESSIONALISM • DEDICATION
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PHOTOS OF THE DAY | JULY 14, 2025 | INTERSTATE 15 NEAR BAKER
Local 935 members responded to a tractor-trailer fire on Interstate 15 near Baker involving approximately 25,000 pounds of tires. Thick black smoke, burning rubber, limited water supplies and temperatures near 120 degrees created an exceptionally demanding incident for firefighters working along a remote desert corridor.
The response generated a major traffic backup. County Fire moved additional ambulances and support units into the area to assist motorists affected by the closure and extreme heat. Crews continued through mop-up, the southbound lanes remained open, and the northbound backup extended approximately 15 miles. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.
This archival incident is not a current traffic or fire alert. It illustrates the all-risk demands placed on North Desert crews. The I-15 and I-40 corridors carry heavy passenger and commercial traffic through long stretches with limited water and extended travel distances. Adequate staffing, strategically located stations, dependable apparatus, water-tender capability and medical surge resources are essential when a single vehicle fire becomes a regional transportation and heat emergency.
FREEWAY SAFETY: Slow down and move over when approaching emergency vehicles. Never drive through smoke, do not stop to photograph an incident, and keep emergency lanes open. In desert heat, carry water and maintain enough fuel to safely manage unexpected delays.
SERVICE • PROFESSIONALISM • DEDICATION
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PHOTOS OF THE DAY | JULY 16, 2025 | 300 BLOCK OF BOWMAN TRAIL, LANDERS
At approximately 4:45 p.m., Local 935 members responded to a well-involved residential structure fire in the South Desert community of Landers. The first engine from Yucca Mesa Station 42 found smoke and flames coming from the front of the home.
As the first crew prepared to begin its fire attack, a non-compliant resident created a safety issue and sheriff’s deputies had to secure the scene. Firefighters temporarily held at a safe position. Once deputies cleared the hazard, crews began suppression operations. They then encountered downed electrical lines, adding another serious hazard to the incident. The fire was knocked down at approximately 5:30 p.m., about 30 minutes after the first company arrived, and crews remained for extensive overhaul and mop-up.
Emergency scenes can change in seconds. This response illustrates why firefighters continuously reassess conditions and adjust tactics as unforeseen hazards develop, protecting the public, patients and one another while continuing to move the incident toward control.
Firefighters rescued the occupant’s dog from the home. The resident was treated for injuries sustained before fire and law-enforcement personnel arrived, then transported by helicopter to a regional trauma center. No firefighters were injured. Two BLM engines and a battalion chief assisted.
This archival incident is not a current fire alert. It demonstrates why dependable staffing, reliable apparatus and strong coordination with cooperating agencies matter across the South Desert, where long travel distances and limited resources can quickly affect response capability.
STRUCTURE FIRE SAFETY: Install working smoke alarms on every level and inside sleeping areas. Practice two ways out, get out and stay out, and report pets or occupants who may still be inside. Never re-enter a burning building.
SERVICE • PROFESSIONALISM • DEDICATION
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VIDEO VAULT | JULY 19, 2025 | HIGHWAY 18 BELOW CRESTLINE
This archival incident package combines the Fire District's three original video clips and scene photograph from a technical rescue on Highway 18 below Crestline. It documents a past response and is not a current incident alert.
At approximately 7:45 p.m., a passenger vehicle left the roadway at a turnout and plunged about 100 feet down steep mountain terrain. The vehicle came to rest on its side beneath dense tree cover, making it difficult to see from the highway. A passerby witnessed the collision and called 911.
Local 935 members located and assessed the sole occupant while operating in darkness and rugged terrain. Crews built a technical rope-rescue system and used a stokes basket to safely move the patient to another section of Highway 18, where a paramedic ambulance was waiting. The patient sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital. No firefighter injuries were reported.
The response included two engines, one rescue unit, one paramedic ambulance, one battalion chief and one public information officer. One traffic lane was closed to protect rescue rigging, apparatus and personnel. CAL FIRE, the California Highway Patrol and the Twin Peaks Sheriff's Station assisted.
This operation shows why an all-risk fire service needs trained personnel, technical rescue equipment, reliable apparatus and adequate staffing. Patient care, rope operations, traffic protection and command functions must happen together while coverage is maintained for surrounding communities.
SAFETY MESSAGE: Slow down on mountain roads, remain alert near turnouts and never approach a vehicle over an embankment. Call 911, provide the best location possible and let trained responders evaluate unstable terrain. Slow down and move over for emergency vehicles.
Video, photograph and incident information: San Bernardino County Fire
Cooperating agencies: CAL FIRE, California Highway Patrol and Twin Peaks Sheriff's Station
SERVICE • PROFESSIONALISM • DEDICATION
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RECENT INCIDENT | OCTOBER 19, 2026 | CRESTMORE
Firefighters responded to the 18000 block of 10th Street on October 19 after a large travel trailer, a detached garage and several vehicles became heavily involved in fire. Explosions from contents within the fire could be heard in the neighborhood, with nearby structures and vehicles threatened.
Local 935 members worked from multiple positions to contain the flames, protect the main residence and neighboring properties, and limit the fire's spread in challenging nighttime conditions. The response included four engines, one ladder truck, a paramedic squad and a battalion chief, with a public information officer and two fire investigators also responding.
No injuries to residents, their animals or firefighters were reported.
A fire like this is not one task at a time. Crews must manage the burning contents while protecting surrounding buildings and keeping access open for incoming apparatus. The teamwork in this video is a look at the work our firefighters carry out for their communities, often while most people are home for the night.
You can help before crews reach the address. Keep streets clear, leave room for fire engines to maneuver, and avoid driving toward an emergency to record it. Stopping or parking near the scene can block the very crews trying to get in.
This video documents the October 19 response, not an active incident alert.
Video: San Bernardino County Fire. Additional footage: @kgalindo_.
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VIDEO VAULT | JULY 21, 2025 | INTERSTATE 15, CAJON PASS
This archival helmet-camera footage documents how quickly an emergency can change.
Over the weekend preceding July 21, 2025, San Bernardino County Fire crews responded after a pickup towing another pickup traveled approximately 30 feet down an embankment along Interstate 15 entering the Cajon Pass. Both trucks and the trailer caught fire, and the flames extended into surrounding vegetation.
Members arrived prepared for a traffic collision, recognized the changing conditions and transitioned into a wildland operation. County Fire, CAL FIRE and the U.S. Forest Service coordinated suppression efforts, holding the vegetation fire to approximately one-half acre and preventing it from reaching nearby homes.
This response demonstrates the value of an all-risk fire service. A single call can require vehicle stabilization, emergency medical care, fire attack, wildland tactics, traffic control and coordination across multiple jurisdictions. Adequate staffing, dependable apparatus, training and regional resource depth allow our members to adapt quickly while maintaining coverage for other communities.
This footage documents the July 2025 response and is not a current incident alert.
SAFETY MESSAGE: Maintain your vehicle and trailer, secure safety chains so they cannot drag and create sparks, verify towing equipment before travel, slow down through the Cajon Pass and move over when emergency personnel are working near the freeway.
Video and incident information: San Bernardino County Fire
Cooperating agencies: CAL FIRE and U.S. Forest Service
SERVICE • PROFESSIONALISM • DEDICATION
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NEW ENGINE IN SERVICE | OCTOBER 16, 2026 | DEVORE
A new KME K-180 Panther entered service at Fire Station 2 on October 16, serving Devore and the Cajon Pass. Fire Company 232 helped outfit the engine with new hose.
A new engine is more than a new paint job. It is dependable transportation for firefighters, hose and equipment, and a resource that needs to be ready for the next call.
Some fire apparatus orders now take three years or longer. That makes replacement planning a public-safety priority, not something that can wait until an aging engine breaks down. In 2025, County Fire announced an order for 10 K-180 pumpers using a pre-engineered modular design to shorten delivery compared with fully customized builds. These are purpose-built fire engines, not off-the-shelf commercial trucks. Preconfigured designs can help bridge the wait for longer-lead apparatus.
The broader industry also faces legal scrutiny. In February 2026, Los Angeles County filed an antitrust lawsuit against fire apparatus manufacturers and private-equity firm American Industrial Partners, alleging anticompetitive consolidation and inflated prices. Those are allegations, not court findings. Manufacturers including REV Group and Pierce have denied wrongdoing and pointed to labor and supply-chain challenges.
The IAFF has pushed for accountability and endorsed a bipartisan resolution introduced in July 2026 seeking an FTC investigation and report. Practical purchasing strategies and efforts to restore competition address different parts of the same problem: getting reliable equipment to firefighters at a fair cost to the public.
Replacing aging apparatus also supports the people who work in it. Mechanical problems can take a unit out of service. Working air conditioning provides a cooler place to rest, alongside hydration and other rehabilitation measures, for crews doing demanding work in the heat.
Video: Captain Cavada.
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APPARATUS SPOTLIGHT | BRUSH PATROL 44 | TWENTYNINE PALMS
Photo credit: @ietoocfirephotos
Why does a wildfire response include more than one kind of fire apparatus? Different assignments call for different resources. Brush patrols can be part of that mix alongside engine companies and water tenders.
This week's spotlight is Brush Patrol 44 in Twentynine Palms. It gives us a chance to introduce a type of rig that may be less familiar than the engines and ladder trucks you see in our posts.
The variety matters because a response is a team effort. An apparatus photograph shows one piece of that team. The firefighters working together are what connect the pieces.
Local 935 wants you to recognize more of the vehicles, and the people, behind your fire service.
Which type of wildland firefighting apparatus would you like us to explain next?
Photos: @ietoocfirephotos. Thank you for showcasing County Fire apparatus.
SERVICE • PROFESSIONALISM • DEDICATION
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