Updates to Fire Hazard Severity Map
The state updated its fire hazard severity map. Your property’s hazard severity zone may have changed. Learn more.
Overview
County Fire provides fire and emergency medical services to 1.73 million acres of unincorporated San Diego County. We have staff from both the County and CAL FIRE working together.
County Fire includes the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Office, which oversees and coordinates the way ambulances, paramedics, and hospitals work together to help people in emergencies.
Our services
- Fire protection and prevention service to structures and wildland areas
- Respond to medical emergencies and perform rescues
- Review building plans and inspect businesses and homes for fire safety
- Provide medical direction to EMS agencies
- Ensure compliance with State statutes and regulations
Communities we serve
Borrego Springs, Boulevard, Campo, Deerhorn Valley, De Luz, Descanso, Dulzura, Harbison Canyon, Intermountain, Jacumba, Jamul, Julian, Lake Morena, Mount Laguna, Ocotillo Wells, Otay Mesa, Palomar Mountain, Pine Valley, Potrero, Ramona, Ranchita, San Pasqual, Shelter Valley, Sunshine Summit, and Warner Springs. We also provide cooperative fire protection to Deer Springs Fire Protection District.
The Emergency Medical Services Office has regulatory oversight of the entire San Diego county region prehospital system.
Background
The Board of Supervisors formed County Fire in 2008 to unify rural fire agencies in the unincorporated area. The partnership with CAL FIRE provides a coordinated, professional approach to protecting the backcountry.
In 2021, the EMS Office transitioned to the County Fire team to improve public safety coordination throughout the region.
Leadership
County Fire has staff from CAL FIRE and the County of San Diego working as a single organization. It is led by:
- Director Jeff Collins
- Fire Chief Tony Mecham
Strategy
Strategic Plan
Our Mission
Provide coordinated, sustainable, and equitable fire protection and emergency medical services to save lives, protect property, and promote the highest quality of living.
Our Vision
San Diego County will have the finest system of fire protection and emergency medical care through regional leadership, collaboration, and innovation.
Values
Integrity: We are committed to honest and ethical behavior and will lead through an ability to be trusted.
Competency: We strive for excellence and demonstrate a high level of professionalism, with training and education as our foundation.
Customer Focused: We will effectively and thoughtfully respond to the needs of internal and external customers.
Accountability: We hold ourselves and others to the highest standards through evaluation, transparency, and responsibility.
Well Being: We will place the highest priority on protecting the health and safety of our team and those we serve.
