Grand Jury Report 2025 Full Report*

R-1: Bernardino The City of San The GJ recommends City Council Bernardino has that the City of San Bernardino use one one single central database (CRMS). single, central database Not all complaints only. go through that system causing confusion and inconsistencies among residents and city employees. 06/01/26 San F2: R2: Bernardino The City of SB The GJ recommends City Council does not currently that the City of San keep complainants Bernardino keep informed of the resident complainants progress of the apprised of the complaint. Thus, progress on every there is no logged complaint. The San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 41 consistent method city needs to report to of informing all all complainants every complainants of ten days 1) the receipt, receipt and 2) the progress, 3) the progress of the outcome or resolution complaint, leaving of the complaint and 4) residents with the an explanation of why it may be taking longer, thought that if applicable. nothing is being done. 06/01/26 San F3: R3: Bernardino The GJ recommends The City of San City Council Bernardino has no that ALL complaints consistent system from speakers at City for ensuring that Council meetings are every speaker at logged into the city's the city council one central database meetings is and assigned a tracking number for further contacted, with the complaint logged reference. into the centralized log, causing frustration among residents and the appearance that the city does not follow through on speakers' concerns. 06/01/26 San F4: R4: Bernardino The GJ recommends Many complaints City Council that all staff enter are reported 42 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report directly to a complaints directly into the CRMS. variety of individuals and may not be logged into CRMS leading to frustration among complainants. 06/01/26 San F5: R5: Bernardino The CRMS data is The GJ recommends City Council not available on that the city council direct the Call Center the city website, nor reported to the to publish the CRMS city council and monthly reports online and report it to the city the public at council quarterly at its meetings, causing a lack of meetings. transparency and frustration among some residents. 06/01/26 San F6: R6: Bernardino The GJ recommends As of the writing City Council of this report, the that the city council City of San authorize and Bernardino has implement a separate study to see if more not completed a study to determine employees are needed if the Call Center to work at the Call has an adequate Center. number of employees to consistently handle and process all the San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 43 complaints that are lodged which can cause uncertainty among some residents. 06/01/26 San F7: R7: Bernardino The GJ has found The GJ recommends City Council that a formal written that the city does not have a formal procedure manual be written policy produced to ensure that and/or procedure there is consistency manual for across departments for the handling of all handling complaints, complaints. causing inconsistency in the handling of residents' issues. BIBLIOGRAPHY Census.gov City of San Bernardino website Google.com Labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov National Civic League American City Award Past Winners 44 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report San Bernardino Sun, April 8, 2021 "San-bernardino-sets-date-to-begin-clearing- oxbow-site-of-broken-concrete" GLOSSARY Customer Relationship Management System (CRMS): a licensed computer information system into which complaints are entered, assigned a tracking number, delegated to the appropriate city department to handle and follow-up communications are made with the complainant. Call Center: refers to either the physical location where employees who handle complaint calls are located (Vanir Towers) or the phone number listed on the San Bernardino city website and flyers to use to make complaints. City Charter: a legal document that establishes municipalities and provides a framework for its local government and defines the organization, powers, functions and essential procedures of the government. City Council Member: an individual elected to the city council which has legislative power to enact ordinances, resolutions, policies, enforcement and funding actions to enhance the social and economic well-being of the city's residents. (sanbernardino.gov) San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 45 Departmental Open/Close Reports: weekly reports generated by the CRM System which include the complaints and dates received, the status of the complaint, to whom it was assigned and the expected closing date of the complaint. Reports are distributed to department heads and to individual city council members. GJ: 2025 San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury GOSBCity: the app provided by the City of San Bernardino to register complaints. Complaints are then entered into the CRMS. Manager-City Council Form of Government: a form of government characterized by a city council that oversees the general administration, makes policy, sets budgets and appoints a professional city manager to carry out day-to-day administrative operations. MCCUpdates: an intranet email account managed by personnel in the City Manager's office to report complaints received by the Mayor, City Council members or departments other than the Neighborhood Customer Services Operation Center. Neighborhood Customer Services Operations Center: located at Vanir Towers, 290 N. D St, San Bernardino, it is the physical location where Customer Service Employees work. They serve as initial contact for visitors to City Hall as there is a 46 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report front counter and it is also where they answer all complaint calls made to the city. Also known as the Call Center. Oxbow (Site): Concrete removed from a warehouse fire in Redlands in 2020 and transported to the North Verdemont District of San Bernardino which was to be used in a planned residential development. However the project faced numerous obstacles, the concrete remains at its location, and the project is still a subject of discussion within the community and city council. Pulling a complaint: downloading the information regarding a complaint. SBC: City of San Bernardino. Service Requests: formal request for service to be provided. Requests can be either external (such as city residents or visitors) or internal (such as one city department requesting assistance from another department). Transfer request: the City of San Bernardino's title for requests initiated by one department for services to be provided by another department. Ward: an administrative division of the city that elects and is represented by one city council member. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 47 APPENDIX Call Center Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday, 7:30 to 5:30, and Friday, 7:30 to 4:30. Its physical location is in the Vanir Towers, 290 N. D Street, 1st Floor, San Bernardino, CA 92401. Phone number is (909) 384-7272 for city services. www.sanbernardino.gov/236/CodeComplaints: San Bernardino About Contact Us Services How Do I Government Q 0 a n Search... 12 Steps Home > Government > Departments > Community Development & Housing > Code Enforcement Division > Code Complaints Code Complaints Code Complaints Crime Free Multi-Housing Program FAQs Please submit a service request and fill out the form as completely as possible. Missing information could result in an inability to confirm the existence of a violation, and therefore, we may not be able to assist you. Report Graffiti Upon receipt of the complaint, a code enforcement officer will issue a Notice of Complaint if there are no previous violations or will make a visit to the Single-Family Rental Property location. Once verified, a responsible party will receive a notice of the violation and be given a time frame to correct the problem. The time frame will vary Inspection Program with the type of violation. A failure to correct the problem will result in remedial or punitive action being taken. Actions could include abatement by the City or its agents, or criminal complaint, or the issuance of an administrative citation. Code Enforcement Newsletter Q ш Agendas & Minutes Employment Doing Business in Homeless Solutions Animal Services Parks and Recreation Opportunities San Bernardino Select Language ~ (Code Complaints from San Bernardino City Website) 48 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VID CHYC 0877 07 San Bernardino CEIS Official Zoning Map Map of San Bernardino City Wards San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 49 5 CHINGON EVER 48TH S 40TH ST PLONE DR 30TH ST EDMONT TATE ST A DR PILES WGHLAND AVE HLAND AV IDE AVE 6 OSA G AV BASELINE RD BASELINE BASELINE ST TE HTE ST 9ТН PTUS GREENSPOT RO 5TH ST TH ST RR FOOTHILL BLVD RIALTO ANE ALABAMA S LENG NO RIALTO AVE 1 ORANGE ST AD AV GST ST MILL STO MERRILL AVE CENTRAL AVE SAN BERNARDINO AVE ORANGE SHOW AD ICHO AV AN BERNARDINO AVE 3 VALLEY BLVD FAIRWAY DR REDLANDS BLVD SLOVER AVE SAN PARTIES HUNTSL CADENADR EN CITRUS AVE 34AMANSA RD BARTON RD SPATING ARION Map of Wards of San Bernardino City (Courtesy of San Bernardino City website) 50 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report San Bernardino 1 210 72 = 1st Council Ward District acilities Legend Gavenment Cert Lowy Pulco Facilities K-12 Public Schools bscitz s Snooping University Valley Cologe Shoregrau Ξ Scots Theate District Control of The AMERICA □ Tree 9 1 1 曲 Live - 40 a professiving - ~~~ Sañ Bernardino CEIS ( ••• MA wife 1 FORMEFORME - (i) _=0 _2 CHIC 10 - 15 1 - 8 W 1 - TR ST 90 1 ___ 511 San Bernardino 1 3rd Council Ward District Facilities Legend 2 Parks Police Facilitie Justice Library K-12 Public Sch Shoppin University talley College Theand 1 UCTORACE. 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A NORC'F SCATES & 30TH ST 1CAR 1 201 2511 XS COUNTRYCUM earries ALXWOOD. 28TH SPAN. HONOR ACKER ALDONOUS THST 277H COLFTEND ₹ 26TH 1611 WATERMAN 79719 2010 IRROW 22 BELL NOTECH n 247 овоне NT4 N. 2150 2365 HIGHLAND -= PRODUCTION OF THE PERSON. How to file a complaint in the City of San Bernardino (See flyer below) HOW DO I REQUESTCITY SERVICES? See a pothole that needs fixing? Graffiti, broken sprinkler, illegal dumping? (909) 384-7272 MOBILE APP HOURS 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM www.sbcity.org - 290 North D St., San Bernardino, CA 92401 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 57 This Page Left Intentionally Blank 58 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report Are They Ready? 0 (C) COUNTY SAN BERNARDINO RESCUE EMS FIRE An Investigation into the Readiness of the San Bernardino County Fire Protectction District San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 59 SUMMARY Wildfires devastated Los Angeles County during 2025. They destroyed neighborhoods, consumed homes and scorched the earth. Media criticized both the Los Angeles County Fire and Los Angeles City Fire Departments; they were not prepared to fight such conditions. After the review and initial investigation, it was determined that the wildfires were the result of a "perfect storm": low humidity, dried vegetation and gale-force winds. Neither LA County Fire nor any other responding agencies could have prevented the fires' spread or the destruction that ensued. San Bernardino took note, and the Civil Grand Jury wondered, is San Bernardino County prepared to fight not only devastating wildfires, but also the routine fires that occur every day? The San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury investigated and found that overall San Bernardino County Fire Protection District is well-prepared. It did uncover some deficiencies: San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (SBCFPD) maintains fire • apparatus and firefighting equipment. Its two maintenance shops and its parts warehouse are situated in three locations, approximately four miles from each other. To effect efficient repairs and maintenance, mechanics must travel among locations, often causing delays in returning vehicles to online service status. SBCFPD has introduced drones and robotics into its firefighting arsenal. Drones provide real-time data on the fire spread and on other developing problems, which helps coordinate firefighting efforts. SBCFPD has developed a drone and robotics program, and has offered off-site training 60 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report in operating, maintaining and monitoring the equipment. At the time of this writing, SBCFPD has one supervisor/operator, and three firefighters who are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) licensed operators. Such a minimal staff is insufficient to take advantage of this crucial new technology. The Occupational Safety and Health Agency (OSHA) requires that a minimum of two firefighters remain outside a burning structure while two other firefighters enter the building to fight the fire (the "two-in/two-out" policy). SBCFPD does not comply with the rule. Instead, it deploys only three firefighters per engine: one firefighter/paramedic, one engineer and one captain. The lack of an additional person creates delay in fire-fighting capability and victim rescue. SBCFPD trains its new recruits to meet the qualifications necessary for certification. Many complete their training and then leave SBCFPD for positions with other fire agencies. BACKGROUND San Bernardino County (SBC) is the largest county geographically in the contiguous United States. SBC has approximately 1,000 square miles of residential environments and approximately 19,000 square miles of desert environments that are managed by five different entities: SBC, the State of California, the Federal Government, Indigenous Peoples tribal lands and the United States military. Its sheer size, combined with a mix of densely populated cities, rural communities and vast wilderness, creates a unique set of challenges for San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (sbcfire.org/about). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 61 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 2025 National Risk Index and the 2024 Office of the California State Fire Marshal (osfm.fire.ca.gov/), created a set of maps showing the Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) which rate most of SBC as a very high fire risk. This high level of risk requires the SBCFPD to approach the fire district's work with humility and an unwavering commitment to innovative solutions, ensuring fire services provide the best possible service to our citizens and the countless visitors the protective district serve (sbcfire.org/about). The service area for the SBCFPD is bordered on the: North by the Kern, Inyo and Los Angeles Counties South by Riverside and Orange Counties • East by Nevada and Arizona state lines West by Los Angeles County (sbcfire.org/about). Canvon-Paras Las Vegas Pahrump National Monumen ia Henderson orest HUALAPAI Ridgecres Laughlin Kingman Mojave lational reserve 40 Lake Havasu City ta ngeles National Forest Joshua Tree Beach COLORADO RIVER National Park RESERVATION Map 1: SBCFPD service area (sbcfire.org/about) 62 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report SBCFPD protects a county with a population of over two million residents, and its goal is to serve the communities with the best in fire protection and offer a professional and dedicated response when citizens of SBC call for help. Over the course of a year, the fire district responds to tens of thousands of calls. OSECO Photo 1: Deluge Hose Company Number 2 circa 1894 (sanbernardino.gov/601) In December 1890, a second station was built in the north part of town at 9th and "F" Streets. Instead of just being called Station 2, it was called "Deluge Hose Company Number 2". It only consisted of the "Rumsey" hand-drawn hose cart that was previously "Pioneer Number 1". This company was in existence until May 1894 when it closed for unknown reasons. The history of SBCFPD is rooted in local fire departments, and joint ventures which began with the formation of individual fire departments. The first fire company in San Bernardino was organized on June 26, 1865, at a meeting of citizens at Pine's Hotel. The first fire station was located on Third San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 63 Street, at the foot of "C" Street (now known as Arrowhead Avenue) in San Bernardino. The company was in existence until 1871 when the property was sold. (sanbernardino. gov/884/Fire-Department). The present fire department was founded on October 3, 1878, when members of the old company formed a volunteer company. The funds from the sale of property and equipment in 1871 were used in the formation of the new company. The volunteer department was in operation until December 3, 1889. At that time, the department was reorganized under Chief D. H. Wixom and became a partly paid department (sanbernardino.gov/884/Fire-Department). Some of the key milestones in fire department's history: Time Period Milestones Formation of San Bernardino area's first fire company 1865 Formation of the present fire department as an all-volunteer 1878 station Volunteer department became a partly paid department 1889 Formation of Fontana Fire Department 1928 Muscoy and Bloomington join Fontana to form the Central Valley 1973 Fire Protection District. Chino joined the Central Valley Fire Protection District to form the 1982 West San Bernardino Valley Fire Agency. Chino became an independent department, and the San Bernardino 1985 County Fire Agency was formed. The Fire Reorganization Plan was finalized, merging 27 separate 2008 fire districts into the current SBCFPD. This created four regional service zones and unified administrative functions. The SBCFPD opened its first dedicated headquarters building 2022 marking a historic moment in its 94-year history. Chart 1: Created by SBC 2025 Civil Grand Jury (iafflocal935.org/history) 64 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The SBCFPD is an agency that has evolved into one of the most technologically advanced firefighting and emergency services organizations in the country. The fire district relies on cutting-edge technology, strategic resource deployment and highly trained personnel to keep its 2.2 million residents safe. The district employs over 1,060 people, of which 760 full-time suppression personnel staff the 51 fire stations across the county. Additionally, there are six paid-call stations that rely on part-time firefighters to provide emergency services. These paid-call stations are typically located in more remote or less-densely populated areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage and timely response throughout the county (sbcfire.org/about). SBCFPD is divided into five regional divisions: West Valley, East Valley, Mountains, South Desert and North Desert, each covering a different geographic and demographic area. These divisions ensure resources are strategically placed for optimized response, whether in high-density neighborhoods or remote rural communities (sbcfire.org/about). Due to the diversity of the areas that the fire protection district covers, fire personnel operate on a wide range of apparatuses, including but not limited to: engines, squads, trucks, ambulances, helicopters, snowcats and boats. What truly sets SBCFPD apart from other fire agencies is its innovative approach to using technology in firefighting, emergency medical services and disaster response (sbcfire.org/about). Technology has revolutionized modern firefighting and this fire district has been at the forefront of adopting and implementing advanced tools to enhance safety and efficiency. The SBCFPD's Technology Plan 2030 outlines a strategic roadmap to integrate current and emerging technologies aimed at enhancing hazard mitigation, risk reduction, life and property protection, firefighter safety, operational efficiency and service levels (sbcfire.org/Technology-Plan-2030.pdf). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 65 Offering services beyond fire suppression and protection, the county Office of Emergency Services (OES) provides disaster assistance to all 24 cities and towns in our county as well as support to the county. The OES staff has ensured the county is officially "Storm Ready" as well as organizing the county's participation in the multi-agency disaster response exercise "Golden Guardian." The OES also leads the county's participation in the "Great California Shake Out", the largest earthquake preparedness exercise in U.S. history, since its kickoff in 2008. Exercises like these are designed to better prepare the department, the county and the citizens for a major disaster. (oes.sbcounty.gov). The Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) includes not only the Fire Marshal, but also: fire prevention, fire investigations, public education, planning and engineering, hazardous materials emergency response, household hazardous waste and records retention (sbcfire.org/ofm). The Administration Division includes vehicle maintenance, warehouse services and facility maintenance (sbcfire.org). The Training Division provides a variety of training courses and includes an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) section which is staffed with two registered nurses and a paramedic as certified trainers. The Training Division is also responsible for the department safety programs. Located a mile to the west is the Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) training center which is where firefighters are all FAA trained of aircraft firefighting in approved aspects (sbcfire.org/emsspecialoperationsandtraining/). San Bernardino County firefighters are dedicated to protecting communities from a variety of threats, including wildfires, hazardous materials incidents and medical emergencies. 66 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report METHODOLOGY In 2025, Los Angeles County (LAC) and some of its population ere the victims of two 100 mph wind-driven fires, the Palisades and Eaton Fires. The television and print media reported on these fires, and in the process, a story emerged about the number of fire engines that were parked in a Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) parking lot. Running with this story, the press wanted to know, "Why are these fire engines not being used in the fighting of the two current fires?" The 2025 San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury (CGJ) gained knowledge of this story from both television and print media releases. This raised a question for the CGJ, "Is the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District prepared to fight a wind-driven fire of this magnitude?" The CGJ investigated the preparedness of SBCFPD to suppress fires. The methods used by CGJ to gather evidence were: • Obtained and reviewed official SBCFPD documents, statistics and reports Gathered information from the SBCFPD's and other websites • Interviewed several current SBCFPD employees and associates: • Fire Administrators 0 Maintenance personnel Fire Captains The CGJ used some of this data to create charts and graphs to clarify the interpretation of this data. DISCUSSION With the threat of wildfire within San Bernardino County, it takes more than the fire department to be ready to fight the threat, including individuals, community fire departments and political representatives. Everyone is involved and responsible. The CGJ will focus on the SBCFPD's readiness to fight such fires and the tools needed to mitigate loss. Workforce Breakdown OSHA revised its Respiratory Protection Standard issued on January 8, 1998. Now it contains a section requiring a minimum of two firefighters that must be available outside a structure while interior firefighting operations are conducted inside by at least two other firefighters (osha.gov/ laws-regs/regulations). OSHA's "two-in/two-out" policy for firefighting is a safety measure requiring a minimum of two firefighters equipped with Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) to enter an Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) atmosphere, while at least two other firefighters remain outside and ready to assist in case of an emergency. These outside firefighters are often able to perform other duties, but they must be able to readily assist or rescue those on the inside. The objective is to provide backup and rapid intervention in case of an emergency during interior firefighting operations (osha.gov/ laws-regs/ regulations). 68 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report Evidence shows that many of the county's fire stations have only three personnel assigned to each engine company: a captain, a firefighter/engineer and a firefighter/paramedic per shift. If, for instance, an IDLH occurs, this responding apparatus must wait for a second apparatus to arrive on the scene of the incident before firefighters can enter the burning structure. The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District responds to 12 different types of calls: Structure Fires, Vegetation Fires, Vehicular Fires, Medical Aid, Hazardous Traffic Collisions Rescues, Materials, with Extrication, Investigation/Alarms, Public Service, Other Fires and Miscellaneous. The San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury used data from the SBCFPD's county website and created the two following graphs. They represent only a portion of these calls, which are structure fires, vegetation fires, vehicular fires, rescues and medical aid, from the past six fiscal years, July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2024. The data on the remaining types can be found on the SBCFPD website (sbcfire.org). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 69 Number of Calls (Fiscal Years) 1,800 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 ■ Structure ■ Vegetation ■ Vehicle ■ Rescue Chart 2: Chart created by SBC Civil Grand Jury using data from sbcfire.org Medical Calls vs Totals Calls 140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 ■ Medical Aid ■ Total Calls Chart 3: Chart created by SBC Civil Grand Jury using data from sbcfire.org 70 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The Medical Aid calls refer to any call dealing with a health issue or concern. On average most SBCFPD calls are medical aid in nature. Once the call is received, the SBCFPD dispatcher will assign a severity level based on information from the caller and then notify the appropriate unit to respond. These are the categories: Alpha - Non-Life Threatening - Basic Life Support Bravo - Possibly Life Threatening - Basic Life Support • Charlie - Life Threatening - Advanced Life Support • Delta - Serious Life Threat - Advanced Life Support Echo - Imminent Life Threat - Closest available unit Employee Retention Employee retention refers to the methods agencies use to retain employees. It is important to maintain a high retention rate, as high turnover can be costly for the organization and impacts employee morale. Some of the incentives used for employee retention are competitive benefits, pleasurable and challenging work environment and opportunities for advancement within the department. Evidence shows the SBCFPD possesses many positive aspects which have aided in employee retention. Some examples are newer firefighting equipment, proactive ideas and resources to aid firefighting, the challenge of a variety of terrains within the county along with a positive attitude workforce. Training the employees in new techniques and updated regulations is also a valuable tool. The most prominent negative points that were discovered through investigation were employee salaries and demanding work schedules. The CGJ learned that the scheduling issues are being addressed. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 71 The CGJ learned that retention of trained and qualified firefighters and paramedics is an issue that the district must contend with, despite the attraction of technological advances available. The national average base salary for a firefighter is $59,606 annually (ziprecruiter.com). In California, the highest average base salary is $80,990. California is among the highest paid states for firefighters; however, it also has the most expensive cost of living (bls.gov/ocs). In SBC, the medium range of income for a firefighter/paramedic is $60,000 to $95,000 annually (glassdoor.com/salaries). A paramedic's average salary nationwide is $47,313 annually, whereas the average firefighter/paramedic salary in SBC is $60,706 dollars annually. Further research determined that the surrounding counties, i.e. Los Angeles and Riverside counties average base salaries are between $94,829 indeed.com/career/ and $107,920 (joinlafd.org/salary and paramedic/salaries). At the time of writing this report, SBCFPD is advertising open positions of a Firefighter/Paramedic at a salary (with benefits) of $90,000 with built-in overtime (OT) to start (governmentjobs.com/careers/sanbernardino/jobs). The CARE Program Evidence shows that firefighting is a dangerous and stressful profession. What most people do not realize is that firefighters don't just fight fires, they also assist in many medical emergencies. The data shows that four out of five emergency calls per day received are medical emergencies. Firefighters are exposed to many types of medical tragedies daily. SBCFPD utilizes the CARE Team Program to support and retain its valuable firefighters: 72 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The SBCFPD has developed the Crisis Accountability/Assessment Response Education Team and the SBC Fire Benevolent Foundation to address the mental, emotional and financial well-being of its personnel and their families. These initiatives reflect a proactive, organized effort to provide crisis intervention, peer support, education and financial assistance to employees in need. The CARE Team Mission The CARE Team's goal is to reduce stigma around mental health and ensure employees have access to timely support. Its programs focus on a Triad of Care which include Peer-to-Peer Support, Spiritual/Self-Care and Clinician/Physical Support. Peer-to-Peer Support - trained personnel providing confidential listening and crisis intervention. Spiritual/Self-Care - support through chaplains, wellness approaches and non-clinical resources. Clinician/Physician Support - access to professional medical and mental health services. Specialized Groups Under the CARE Team The team uses an Incident Management Team (IMT) approach to organize specialized groups. There are nine specialized groups that play a crucial role in meeting the overall mission of the CARE Team. Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD): provides immediate defusing and structured debriefs after traumatic events San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 73 Chaplains: offer emotional, mental and spiritual support (without proselytizing), available for rapid crisis response Canine Program: certified peer support dogs and handlers providing comfort in crisis situations Administration/Finance: handles budgets, grants, clerical work and funding for resources • Communication: maintains contact with injured or ill personnel, while protecting confidentiality • Education: ensures training, continuing education and dissemination of mental health resources • Events and Fundraising: organizes large-scale events and supports financial resources for the CARE mission • Retirement: provides guidance on workers' compensation, injury navigation and retirement planning Resources: researching and vetting therapies, treatments, rehabilitation centers and alternative care options Key Objectives of the CARE Team • Change the stigma around seeking mental health services. Encourage personnel to seek help early and make use of available education and prevention resources. Promote open communication, mutual support, and healthy lifestyle practices. The CARE Team also collaborates and provides the Cordico Wellness App for online resources. (Wellness App - Cordico) 74 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report San Bernardino County Fire Benevolent Foundation The Foundation was formed in 2017 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to provide financial assistance to employees and their families in crisis. Key Features: 100% donation-funded, no salaries paid to Board members • Managed by an internal board of fire service experienced • persons Committed to delivering maximum assistance directly to employees Eligibility: Active and Retired SBCPFD employees, both Management and Labor Immediate family members (spouses/partners, children, parents, • siblings) Forms of Assistance: • Housing (temporary or permanent) Transportation for medical/family emergencies • Medical or mental health expenses, including alternative • treatments Basic living expenses (utilities, food, childcare) • Funeral and related travel costs San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 75 The CARE Team and the San Bernardino County Fire Benevolent Foundation demonstrate a comprehensive, organized approach to crisis support for fire personnel. Together, they provide immediate peer and professional support, long-term educational and wellness initiatives and financial assistance in times of personal or family crisis. These programs reflect the department's commitment to caring for its own workforce while fostering a culture of resilience, accountability and compassion. Mutual Aid The CGJ learned that Mutual Aid is based upon the concept of "neighbor helping neighbor." It consists of agreements between Cal Fire (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection), and all fire agencies within California. (caloes.ca.gov). The California Government Code §8619.5 mandates that the Office of Emergency Services in consultation with relevant local and state governments develop and adopt a state fire services and rescue emergency Mutual Aid plan. The plan must include systematic mobilization, organization and operation of fire, rescue and hazardous material resources on a local area, regional and statewide basis to mitigate the effects of disasters among several other aspects (caloes.ca.gov). Under this code, Cal Fire was established to coordinate the state's fire protection program (fire.ca.gov). California requires a coordinated effort from multiple agencies to effectively respond to emergencies such as wildfires, structural fires, floods, earthquakes, hazardous material incidents and medical aid. This 76 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report program brings state, federal and local agencies together through contracts and agreements (law.justia.com/codes/california/2005/gov/8615-8619). Through these agreements, Cal Fire is named as the lead agency in providing fire, rescue, dispatch and paramedic services to cities and towns in California that are not designated as state responsibilities (fire.ca.gov/about). These agreements are renewed every five years and outline the responsibilities of Cal Fire and SBCFPD. The mutual agreement is extended with the express understanding that the Incident Commander (IC) shall remain in charge of such incident, including the direction of personnel and equipment provided through the operation of this mutual aid agreement (fema.gov/emergency-managers/nims). Financial assistance is provided under Government Code §8654.2 through a statewide program to communities for all hazards and support of a comprehensive mitigation reduce risks impacts of disasters strategy and and (california.public.law/codes/gov.code section 8654.2). Photo 2: SBCFPD Mobile Command Vehicle (Courtesy of SBC Civil Grand Jury) San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 77 A mobile command vehicle is designed to replicate an agency's emergency operation center with its advanced technology and communications capabilities. Maintenance SBCFPD's maintenance, called Fleet Maintenance, has approximately 30 employees: administrators, shop supervisor, and various classifications of mechanics, remote mechanics, parts chasers and parts servicers. The SBCFPD mechanics specifically inspect and diagnose mechanical, electrical and electronic issues. They also perform tasks like tune-ups, overhauls, adjustments, replacements and preventative maintenance on engines, transmissions, differentials and other components (cafiremech.com). All the mechanics, specifically those working with fire apparatus and equipment, are certified by a combination of organizations and departments. These include the California Fire Mechanics Academy (CFMA), the State Fire Training (SFT) (within the California Office of the State Fire Marshal) and potentially through Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) certifications (osfm.fire. ca.gov). The Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) Certification Commission, Inc. is the primary organization that certifies fire department mechanics. They offer various levels of certification, including the Fire Apparatus Technician Master Level III (evttcc.org). The National Fire Protection Association also plays a role developing standards and certifications relevant to fire service vehicles (nfpa.org). SBCFPD's Fleet Maintenance section maintains over 800 units of mobile equipment and vehicles. This number includes fire engines, trucks and specialty equipment. 78 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The following chart gives the designation type and a description for each type of fire engine: Description Type 1 The fire truck that typically responds to structural fires is the most common type of fire truck in use today. It has the capacity to carry four firefighters. Like Type 1 and are equipped with the same specs and tools. They are 2 also the most common truck seen in a suburban area responding to structural fires. It has the capacity to carry four firefighters. 3 These engines have four-wheel drive to make driving over rough terrains easier. The Type 3 must be able to transport at least three crew members. Type 3 and Type 4 often look like one another. However, the biggest difference is their minimum personnel and tank capacities. The Type 4 wildland engine is very similar to the Type 3 but has a few 4 distinct differences. Type 4 is used to drive over rough terrain and sacrifices a smaller pump and less hose for a larger 750-gallon water tank. The minimum number of personnel a Type 4 must carry is two. 5, 6, 7 Types 5, 6 and 7 are customized to meet the needs of each specific department. These vehicles are typically pick-up truck with four-wheel drive. These engines are often seen in both wildland and suburban settings. This classification is designed to hold a minimum of two firefighters and carry hose diameters ranging from 1 inch to 1-½ inch. Chart 4: Engine Types (bmefire.com/types-of-fire-trucks) San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 79 The following photos show the four most common pieces of apparatus in the SBCFPD fleet: A CONTRACTOR OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY O THE NORTH Photo 3: Type 1 engine (sbcfire.org) Type 1 Engine The fire truck that typically responds to structural fires is the most common type of fire truck in use today. Three or four firefighters are usually assigned to each of these vehicles (sbcfire.org). AVRIDING GOUNTRY FIRE MT 42 Photo 4: Aerial Ladder Truck (sbcfire.org). 80 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The Aerial Ladder Truck provides firefighters with a 100' of vertical and 90' of horizontal reach and provides high-reach fire suppression and rescue operations (sbcfire.org). Gara Photo 5: Med Squads (en.wikipedia.org) Med squads, based upon a pick-up truck frame, differ from ambulances in that they do not transport patients to medical facilities. (en.wikipedia.org) San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 81 Photo 6: Type 3 Engine (sbcfire.org). Type 3 Engine (Bush Patrol) These engines have four-wheel drive to make traveling over rough terrains easier. The Type 3 must be able to transport at least three crew members and has a pump and water tank (sbcfire.org). SBCFPD's Fleet Maintenance sections utilize two types of computer software: Faster and Firenet. Faster is a fleet management software package that SBCFPD has been using for 15 years. The software is designed to maximize the fleet's return on investment with predictive maintenance, repair parts acquisition and vehicle optimization. Every vehicle owned by the SBCFPD is entered into the software when it is purchased and remains in software until the vehicle is scrapped. All the maintenance performed on this vehicle is reflected in this program (fasterasset. com). Firenet is a software package that shows all the preventive maintenance schedules for each of the department's vehicles. It can automatically produce a report on each vehicle when either scheduled or requested (inspect. com) 82 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report SBCFPD's Fleet Maintenance section has five full-time mechanics stationed in the remote divisions of the upper desert area. Each of these mechanics is assigned individual pick-up based Remote Service Trucks (RST) and moves from station-to- station performing routine preventative maintenance, such as oil changes, tire changes, filter changes, etc. These mechanics also respond to minor emergency repairs. If there is a more serious problem, a reserve engine is dispatched as replacement to the out-of-service vehicle. These mechanics take their RSTs home with them at night so that the mechanic does not need to return to the maintenance yards between work orders. The only time the mechanic must return to the maintenance yards is for resupply and in cases of an emergency (firstdue.com/). The CGJ learned that the two maintenance shops and the parts warehouse are in three different locations. One maintenance shop is located on "D" Street and the other is on Lena Road. Both locations are within the San Bernardino City limits and are about four miles apart. The parts warehouse is located on Caroline Street. This current situation presents several problems for Fleet Maintenance. Mechanics, especially the supervisors and mechanical staff, must travel from one shop to the other, several times during the workday. Consolidating these locations could be cost- effective and timesaving. The CGJ also learned that today's fire vehicles are more electronically- controlled than mechanically controlled. Some of the mechanics within the department are able to manufacture several of the needed parts when orders are delayed. But the department must order electronics. In addition, the quality of these parts is often substandard. Evidence showed that a brand-new electronic part was installed and immediately failed. This is a common occurrence when dealing with electronics that must be imported from other parts of the world. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 83 Not only parts, but new replacement fire equipment may take as long as 27 months to get replaced. Evidence shows, when the SBCFPD orders a new Type 1 or 2 engine, they order it bare and equip it within the maintenance shops upon its arrival. Pick-up trucks are also difficult to obtain in a timely manner, taking up to eight months for delivery. Technology Photo 7: SBCFPD drone and chase vehicle (courtesy of SBCFPD) One of the popular changes to the firefighting field is the introduction of drones and robotics. The concept of using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) also 84 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report called drones in firefighting was first presented to the public at the 2011 Fire Department Instructors Conference International conference (FDICI) (fdic.com). Initially, drone use was limited, with fire departments primarily using drones only for aerial photography and videography. The first use to assist with a fire incident was by the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACFD) in a 2017 wildfire, using two drones to gain crucial real-time data on fire spread to help coordinate firefighting efforts. According to several fire fighter trade publications, it has been estimated that in 2023 over 500 U.S. fire departments have now integrated drone technology. (lafra.org/lafd-drones-and-pilots) San Bernardino County Fire Protection District is also included in this statistic and has started their own drone and robotics program known as BDC Fire Robotics (BDCFR) (the BDC is a designator assigned by the State of California). The goal is to take full advantage of the growing technology in both the drone and robotic fields. With the addition of these unmanned resources, the BDCFR can design a protection plan that will be able to support and improve the capabilities of the SBCFPD by air, land and water (sbcfire.org). The growth of this program will require an increase in trained personnel to operate, maintain and monitor this equipment. Drone operators must become a Federal Aviation Administration licensed drone pilot/operator by completing and passing a certified testing course (faa.gov/uas/commercial operators). As for the land and aquatic robotic units, they do not require any state or federal licenses. The CGJ encourages the SBCFPD to establish its own training and certification program for these resources. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 85 At the time of writing this report, the BDCFR department is only staffed by one full-time manager/pilot and three other firefighters who hold FAA drone licenses (sbcfire.org). The CGJ recommends a staffing increase in trained drone and robotic operators. A well-trained support staff is paramount. The option of using non- firefighting personnel (i.e. civilians) in some of the roles of trained certified drone and robot operators could help increase the workforce and keep the trained firefighters where they are needed most. The BDC Fire Robotics department's lineup of robotics and drones is making SBC one of the leading fire departments in the country with its new and diverse resources. The following photos and descriptions show the types and capabilities of these aerial, land and aquatic robots: Photo 8: DJI Matrice 30T - M30T (courtesy of SBCFPD) 86 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The CGJ learned about the DJI Matrice 30T (M30T), which can fly for about 25 minutes and can reach an altitude above 10,000 feet, but it is planned to operate closer to the ground. M30T is equipped with both wide angle and zoom cameras, a thermal imaging camera and a laser range finder. The M30T drone can also be equipped with a spotlight and loudspeaker to assist with ground communications. Recently SBCFPD received two new Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) models from Dunlevy Consulting Inc. These winged drones designated as Angel- 1BPEs are designed to travel farther and faster than the smaller M30T models. With its 10-foot wingspan, it can reach altitudes of 11,000 feet with a flight speed over 53 mph with a duration time estimated at two hours. These features will be key in any district surveying, area monitoring and also may contribute with search and rescue incidents. Photo 9: Dunley's Angel -1BPE drone (Courtesy of 2025 SBC Civil Grand Jury) The BDCFR will soon receive the Oceanbotics SRV-8, a submersible remotely operated vehicle which will be utilized in the waterways of SBC, from the lakes in the mountains to the Colorado River. The SRV-8 is attached to a control San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 87 tether and can reach depths up to 1,000 feet. It includes eight thrusters, two lights, a multi-tilt camera and a manipulator arm. Its operating time is between six and eight hours. Its mission will be to survey waterways, assist search and rescue teams and help with recovery efforts (go.oceanbotics.com). Photo 10: SRV-8 submersible (go.oceanbotics.com) SBCFPD has also obtained a ground-based robot from Icor Technology, the Mini Caliber tractor rover. It is equipped with a robotic arm, an articulating camera, a thermal infrared camera as well as two-way communications. With its rubber treads, it can climb stairs and maneuver around small obstacles. Its main job will be searching in and around structures and confined areas which are hard to reach could pose a hazard to the fire crews and other personnel or (icortechnology.com/robots/mini-caliber). 88 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report Photo 11: Mini Caliber tractor (icortechnology.com/robots) Drone First Responder (DFR) Drones have been used by fire departments for almost a decade. The first DFR was originally tested in 2018, when the Chula Vista Police department used a drone to respond to a 911 call (chulavistaca.gov). The program involves strategically stationed drones that can be quickly deployed to an emergency before traditional first responders arrive. The program is being utilized in other counties and states as well as in many countries (flocksafety.com). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 89 Photo 12: Drone view on laptop and controller (Courtesy of SBCFPD) BDCFR's plan is to utilize the M30T (or similar) model drones with their multi-functional platform. These drones would be spread out atop different stations within the fire district and be housed in a self-sustaining enclosure. The plan for these drones is to be remotely dispatched first to the reported incident and obtain real time video and data from an aerial view. This information can be sent to the responding units which would be equipped with tablets so the responding crews can see in real time what type of call to which they are responding. This serves a multitude of benefits because the approaching units can start to assess the situation and see if additional units are needed (or, in some cases, not needed and may stand down) and start to map out a plan of action (flocksafety.com). 90 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report Once the drone is on the scene, the drone operator (pilot) can position the drone above the incident at an altitude which will show all sides of the location. It can zoom in to any possible trouble spots or other unseen or hidden situations. These features were proven valuable in January 2025, during a Fire-type Unknown exercise, when an unknown fire at G Street and Congress Street in the City of San Bernardino was reported. A DJI M30T drone controller, while at the top of the Caltrans building, was able to fly the drone to that location before the responding units were able to arrive minutes later. Photo 13: Drone readout on three different devices (courtesy of SBCFPD) The onboard thermal sensors were used to detect any hidden fire conditions inside the building before the responding units. This illustrates the immense amount San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 91 of valuable information which is critical to the responding units that would still be minutes away from the scene. The Future The drone and robotic technology field is growing, as is the further development of Artificial Intelligence (AI). There are numerous published reports and articles that discuss the growing integration of AI into the field of firefighting. The possible areas are in wildfire detection which could use images from satellites to detect smoke in remote areas. The area of Fire Behavior Modeling could predict how a fire will spread and its potential hazards. AI could also assist in predictive analysis to help identify risk areas through historical data. AI could also be integrated into the tools the fire departments use, for instance, enhanced communications systems and self-driving vehicles. AI devices could be integrated into the Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) that the firefighters wear (i.e. helmets) (qwake.tech). Fire helmets with Heads-Up Displays (HUDs) are an emerging technology in the suppression of fires. Systems like Qwake Technologies' C-Thru Navigator are being developed or tested. The C-Thru system uses a helmet-mounted thermal camera and AI to provide firefighters with enhanced, smoke-penetrating vision, navigation guidance and real-time communication (qwake.tech). MSA Safety Incorporated, another company developing firefighting safety technologies, has the Nightfighter. The Nightfighter system displays crucial information like air cylinder contents directly onto the SCBA mask's facepiece. (us.msasafety.com/Supplied-Air-Respirators). 92 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report If SBCFPD had additional resources, it could cover the largest county in the country and help monitor its diverse geographical makeup. With the use of its VTOL drone and future AI mapping software, the BDCFR can survey the county's landscape for possible trouble spots, and assist in the task of Fuel Management, which refers to the removal of vegetation and other possible sources of fire. In July 2025, a company that manufactures ultralight aircraft approached SBCFPD to demonstrate a possible addition to their BDCFR inventory. The Pivotal Aero company demonstrated a VTOL, the Helix, an ultralight that could either be flown remotely or be piloted by an onboard operator. Photo 14: Pivotal Aero Helix (pivotal.aero.com) This ultralight Personal Aerial Vehicle (PAV) is just under 14 feet wide and 13.5 feet long. It has fixed rotors and tandem wings and has the capability of carrying a payload of 250 pounds onboard with a range of 20 or more miles at 65mph. The San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 93 Helix vehicle complies with the FAA Part 103 Ultralight category, so it does not require a pilot's license to operate. The proposed purchase is to utilize the Pivotal Helix as a rapid response vehicle to fly out an equipped paramedic to a situation to administer immediate medical aid and support. This demonstration was also broadcast on a local Southern California news channel (cbsnews.com). Evidence shows that with all the ongoing developments in AI software and drones and robotics, the BDCFR program will benefit SBCFPD, by reducing response time and avoid sending redundant resources to answer incident calls. The SBCFPD drone/robotic program shows a bright future. Its endless growth can provide additional support for the dedicated men and women who serve as our first responders. Water Resources The CGJ members viewed the January 2025 wildfire events in Los Angeles County (LAC) and the resulting concerns of many Los Angeles residents. According to some news reports, some residents expressed concern that water hydrants were inoperable in that they could not be connected to firefighting equipment. Another reported concern was that no water flowed from some of the public water hydrants when opened. Further concerns of residents centered around news reports that a billionaire mall developer was utilizing private fire protection services in an effort to save the mall, and thereby drained the limited public water source while residential homes were ablaze (calmatters.org/housing/2025/01/private-firefighters-insurers). 94 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The CGJ set out to assess the level of preparedness in San Bernardino County as to the availability and utilization of water resources such as hydrants and public water sources in the event of similar fire disasters. Water Hydrants In LAC, the public water hydrants are maintained and serviced by the Department of Public Works, a county department. After the January 2025 fires in Los Angeles County, it was reported that 1,350 fire hydrants were in need of repair at the time of the fires. Consequently, there were disagreements between the Department of Public Works and the Fire Department as to accountability and responsibility for hydrant operability. (Majority of Faulty Los Angeles Hydrants Repaired or Replaced | Firehouse) In contrast, in San Bernardino County the public water hydrants are maintained, repaired and monitored by a multitude of separate private water district entities throughout various jurisdictions in this large county. On March 24, 2025, Cal Fire's maps of Estimated Wildfire Risk for Southern California (Updated from 2011) was reviewed ("Inland Empire faces significantly higher wildfire risk," Cal Fire says - Riverside Press Enterprise). A random sampling of water districts within the SBC areas with the most significant increases in fire risk were reviewed regarding hydrant readiness. The hydrant maintenance and repair records for the last six to twelve months, including outside vendor contracts, if any, for hydrant service and repair were reviewed. The CGJ reviewed detailed water district records, which indicated where precisely each hydrant is located, the hydrant connection specifications, the testing San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 95 methods, the flow capacity, paint or rust notations, the test operator, the readiness status and the date. In some instances, there were reports of damage, vehicle stricken or leaking water hydrants, calls by the fire department to assist with a leaking hydrant and the resulting work orders for repair. The following data was noted from the Riverside Press Enterprise: • City of Hesperia - Fire zone risk increased from 715 acres to 15,359 acres (an increase of 14,644 acres) • Cucamonga Valley Water District (Rancho Cucamonga) - Fire zone risk increased from 5,553 acres to 8,871 acres (an increase of 3,318 acres) City of Chino Hills - Fire zone risk increased from 3,666 acres to 20,923 acres (an increase of 17,257 acres) Unincorporated San Bernardino County - Fire zone risk increased from 5,715 acres to 26,862 acres (an increase of 21,147 acres) o West Valley Water District, Rialto, CA 92376 - which serves 100,000 residents. East Valley Water District, Highland, CA 92346 - which serves 108,000 0 residents. According to evidence, the water districts have complete control regarding the state of readiness of the public water hydrants in their respective areas. There is officially no county oversight or formal reporting to exchange hydrant information between the County Department of Public Works-Special Districts, the SBCFPD or the water districts. Evidence indicated that out-of-service hydrants are reported informally via email or telephone from the local water districts to SBCFPD for input into the digital dashboard displayed in every fire station. If the water district calls dispatch on the weekend, after hours or for a major issue, dispatch will send out an alert to those 96 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report impacted by the outage. The display page listing the hydrants affected is real time in nature and any updates will be seen on the digital dashboards within a few minutes. Any issues with hydrant tampering are typically reported to dispatch. SBCFPD has been conducting a trial on tamper proof hydrant caps, and, through collaboration, special tools are provided which are necessary to open hydrants in those areas with large homeless populations. There are redundancies built in for alternative water source access if a fire hydrant is inoperable or damaged. A nearby body of water or pool can be accessed, or a Water Tender (see glossary) may be utilized. In any event, the expectation is that the inoperable hydrant is generally reported via an Incident Report or After-Action Report so that it may be repaired. There are also hydrants that are not maintained by a water district, as well as private hydrants. While San Bernardino County Department of Public Works (DPW) - Special Districts does not maintain fire hydrants located along the over 2,500 miles of roadways in the County Maintained Road System (CMRS), DPW - Special Districts is responsible for managing, operating and administering certain County Service Areas (CSAs) that provide water and sanitation services. As part of those services, Special Districts maintains fire hydrants located within the boundaries of those CSA water districts. The City of Ontario Fire Department, located within SBC, issued a procedure on January 7, 2025, notably during the LA fires. Fire Protection Standard #D008, Private Hydrant Maintenance, specifies requirements that apply to all privately owned fire hydrants within the City of Ontario. This comprehensive standard addresses the proper functioning, inspection, connections, servicing, repair and San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 97 reporting to Ontario Fire Department of private hydrants to ensure they are ready for emergency use. There is no similar policy at SBCFPD regarding standards for private hydrants that municipal firefighters may need to access during a fire event. Neighboring counties provide ultimate governmental responsibility for the repair or maintenance of public fire hydrants. In Orange County, there is shared responsibility between the Fire Division and the Water and Sewage Division of the County, with the various water districts conducting flow testing and routine maintenance. In Riverside County, public hydrants are maintained by the City of Riverside or County of Riverside, following specific guidelines by the Riverside County Fire Department (Guidelines, Policies, and Standards - Riverside County Fire Department). According to Riverside County Fire Department Policy (Guideline OFM- 01B), the Office of the Fire Marshal retains final authority to determine compliance with facilities to which emergency response may be necessary. It also has authority to ensure that both privately owned water-based fire protection systems, and public fire hydrants necessary for emergency response purposes will always be available for use. The OFM retains final authority to determine compliance (RVC Access and Water Guideline). In contrast, there is no SBC official or department with ultimate authority and responsibility to ensure that the public water hydrants are kept in a ready state of operation and that statutorily mandated standards as to distance, flow and connection capabilities are followed. There are a multitude of private water districts that operate under their own authority and rules. Yet they also have responsibility for the public water hydrants. 98 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The CGJ recommends that the Board of Supervisors request all water districts provide regular reports to SBCFPD showing compliance with federal guidelines and standards. The report should cover compliance with standards of hydrants including those previously called in to SBCFPD dispatch as inoperable. This will increase accountability and ensure compliance with statutorily mandated standards. Evidence was received that there is a lack of certainty that standards and guidelines are followed to ensure functionality and operability of water hydrants in the county. The Office of Emergency Services, SBCFPD and the Department of Public Works-Special Districts operate on trust that the many privately controlled water districts are fulfilling their obligation to maintain and service the public hydrants which are utilized by all firefighters. Riverside County oversees hydrant regulations to ensure compliance with California Fire Building Codes and local ordinances. This includes guidelines for hydrant quantity and placement to enhance fire safety and response capabilities. Additionally, Riverside County has enacted strict regulations for both residential and commercial properties to promote conservation and efficiency (RVC Access and Water Guideline). The CGJ recommends that the Board of Supervisors make SBCFPD aware of any existing formal agreements for hydrant services or consider initiating agreements with the water districts in the county which address maintenance, operability, functionality and communication standards. Formal agreements of which all parties are aware will increase communication, expectations, certainty and consistency between the partners. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 99 Private Fire Protection Companies There is growing concern throughout California over limited water resources. The water intended for public use and for public good should not be usurped by private entities with special interests. There should be regulations governing when and how public water sources may be accessed by others. Certainly, the public has a reasonable expectation of water availability and accessibility, especially during a disaster event. With the increase in wildfire events and the resulting devastation, there is an increase in homeowners' and corporations' desire to enhance their own chances for the survival of their homes, buildings and resources. Some have turned to private firefighting entities to prioritize their interests rather than depend upon the local government fire departments which serve the public at large. Further, homeowners' insurance corporations, which seek to limit their liability during a disaster, seek an advantage in fighting the elements by providing private firefighters for the homes and buildings that they insure ("Los Angeles residents hire private firefighters to save their homes. Here's what they cost." - CBS News) (calmatters.org/housing/2025/01/private-firefighters-insurers) (npr.org/2025/01/18/nx-s1-5265301/california-wildfires-private-firefighters) Evidence shows that there is little knowledge of private firefighting entities in our county, although they may exist. With climate change affecting the severity and regularity of intense wildfires, it is largely anticipated that there will be a growing demand for private fire protection services. In fact, of those known to exist in California, many employ retired municipal firefighters. 100 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report (youtube.com/watch?v=LHgBz11455E) (calmatters.org/housing/2025/01/private- firefighters-insurers/) (npr.org/2025/01/18/nx-s1-5265301/california-wildfires- private-firefighters). The Office of Emergency Services in Sacramento has regulatory authority over private firefighters in California. Introduced out of Los Angeles County, there is proposed legislation, Assembly Bill 1075, to prevent private firefighting entities throughout the state from using public water hydrants (cbsnews.com/ sacramento/news/proposed-california-law-would-prohibit-private-firefighters- from-using-public-hydrants). The current expectation is that the government firefighting entity leads the disaster response and communications. The Incident Commander may deny access on scene to private firefighters due to safety or other concerns. The potential for conflict is increasing due to the competing desires for the resources to protect their own interest, for the public good or for the private company or wealthy homeowner who employs them. (calmatters.org/housing/2025/01/private-firefighters-insurers) (youtube.com/watch?v=LHgBz11455E) Napa Valley area vintners are particularly concerned with increased fire dangers. They are having difficulty getting fire insurance due to the liability and costs. Therefore, they are installing private water storage and hiring private firefighting forces (sfchronicle.com/food/wine/article/napa-vineyard-winery-fire- 20319743.php). One statewide concern is the decrease in federal funding for fire mitigation efforts, and the belief is that statewide there will be a resultant increase in private firefighting companies. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 101 The private fire protection services industry is increasing, yet there is slight to no acknowledgment by San Bernardino County, geographically the largest in the country, that these entities even exist. The potential for others to access water sources and use public hydrants, if not regulated, is setting the stage for conflict over access and costs. The pending legislation, if passed, will prohibit water access that the private sector now has, which is likely to be a source of contention. There are no guidelines establishing an amenable working relationship. There is potential for significant issues if private firefighters are denied access and claim they were prohibited by an Incident Commander. Lithium Batteries Concerns Throughout this investigation the CGJ has learned that for the SBCFPD to maintain its state of preparedness, it can and will face a variety of fires. It takes three elements: fuel, heat and oxygen to cause a fire to ignite. This is called the fire triangle (sc.edu/ehs/training/Fire/01 triangle). FUEL Photo 15: Fire Triangle (blazequel.com) Once a fire starts it falls into one of the five classes listed below. 102 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report FIRE EXTINGUISHER SYMBOLS, CLASSIFICATIONS & AGENTS CLASS A fires involve ABC Dry Chemical (Multipurpose) common combustibles such Halotron Water as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, Foam trash and plastics. ABC Dry Chemical (Multipurpose) CLASS B fires involve BC Dry Chemical (Regular) flammable liquids, solvents, oil, Purple K gasoline, paints, lacquers and Carbon Dioxide other oil-based products. Halotron Foam CLASS C fires involve energized electrical ABC Dry Chemical (Multipurpose) equipment such as wiring, BC Dry Chemical (Regular) controls, motors, machinery or Purple K appliances. Carbon Dioxide Halotron CLASS D fires involve combustible metals such as magnesium, lithium Dry Powder and titanium. CLASS K fires involve combustible cooking Wet Chemical media such as oils and grease commonly found in commercial kitchens. Chart 5: Fire Classes (fireextinguisherdepot.com) With growing advancements in technology, we are now faced with one of the most challenging elements to deal with Lithium-ion fires, which is a Class D fire. The element Lithium is found in the Lithium-ion Battery (LiB), which is rechargeable. These types of batteries are used in large numbers with a wide range of uses, such as our cell phones, computers, electric scooters and E-bikes. They also help supply solar backup power to our homes, businesses, and even to a city's power grid. One of the more popular uses of LiBs is electric vehicles (EV). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 103 Percentage of Total US EV Registrations Arizona: 3.4% Colorado: 3.5% Georgia: 3.5% Illinois: 3.8% California: New York: 48.3% 5.0% New Jersey: 5.2% Washington: 5.8% Texas: 8.8% Florida: 9.8% Chart 6: DOE E-vehicles registrations (https://www.recurrentauto.com/research/states-leading-the-ev-revolution) The US Department of Energy's September 2024 inquiry into Electric Vehicle (EV) registration. It shows that California has an estimated 48.3% of EV cars on the road, which breaks down to an estimated 1,256,646 vehicles. To bring this data closer to home, SBC is fifth in light duty EV sales behind the other counties (Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside). However, the county experienced the fastest rate of growth, from 8% of sales in 2021 to 19% of sales in 2024, which equates to 136% growth in four years. SBC is second behind Los Angeles County in total non-residential system output capacity. Non-residential solar installations include the sectors of commercial, educational, industrial, military, non-profit, other government and unknown. In terms of residential solar generation capacity, San Bernardino County's 104 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report total solar output of 35.0 kilowatts per 100 residents, which is behind San Diego (57.1) and Riverside (46.2) counties, but ahead of Orange (24.3) and Los Angeles (10.1) counties. (https://indicators.sbcounty.gov/environment/green-innovation/) The CGJ found that along with the positive advantages these power supplies give us, there is also a serious negative side. The fire they produce is a situation which has proved very difficult to extinguish due to the chemical makeup of the Lithium element itself. This was very apparent to some in SBC on Friday July 26, 2024, at 5:57 am, when an overturned semi-truck transporting lithium batteries caught fire causing the shutdown of Interstate 15 (I-15) in both directions. In a Caltrans news release on July 28, 2024, about 80 motorists were stranded for hours, causing the authorities to send in essential supplies and medical aid, including 100 gallons of diesel and 60 gallons of gasoline to stranded motorists. The I-15 freeway was finally reopened at 3:00 am Sunday July 28, 2024 (dot.ca.gov/ news-releases/news-release-2024-027). Fire usually requires heat, oxygen, and fuel. Unfortunately, when a LiB catches fire, the self-sustaining chain reaction generates excessive heat. The characteristic of a LiB fire becomes a major concern when it causes a "thermal runaway", which is a rapid, uncontrolled increase in temperature and energy. This often leads to ignition and possible explosion because as it burns (estimated range of 1,472°F to 2,192°F) it creates its own renewing heat source as well as producing its own oxygen source, making it very difficult to break the triangle of the fire (gasmet.com/blog). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 105 Due to this characteristic, there is no simple method to extinguish this type of fire. The CGJ has found that the standard operation procedure to fight these types of fires is the use of a very large amount of water. In addition to the use of water, the possible use of a large specially designed heavy duty fire blanket which covers the E-vehicle is to try to limit the amount of oxygen, and to manage the smoke and toxic gases that emanate from the batteries (gasmet.com/blog). One popular electric vehicle's maintenance manual state that it could take from 3,000 to 8,000 gallons of water to extinguish and cool the battery which could take up to 24 hours. In an April 2021 article on the Popular Science.com website, it was reported in Houston, Texas, that one EV fire took up to four hours and nearly 30,000 gallons of water to extinguish (popsci.com/story/technology/electric-vehicle-battery-tesla- fire). There are new possibilities being developed, such as specialized extinguishing agents, innovative fire-retardant materials and a high-pressure water delivery system (fireapparatusmagazine.com/fire-technology-innovation). The CGJ acknowledges that the lithium-ion battery hazards are not only a county issue, or state, or even a federal one. This is a global concern, and it will be resolved through continual research and innovative thinking. COMMENDATION The San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury commends the Board of Supervisors. During this investigation the CGJ found the board has continually supported the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District in its ongoing efforts 106 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report to protect the county. This support has been crucial and has led to some new and promising technological advances. CONCLUSION San Bernardino County is a tinderbox. Its mountains, deserts, scrublands, urban and suburban neighborhoods render it particularly susceptible to wildfires and structure blazes. FEMA's Fire Risk Analysis rates San Bernardino County as the third most hazardous county in the country. The rating is not unusual, or unexpected. FEMA rates many California counties as high-fire risks; several are in the top ten. FEMA isn't assigning blame, though; its ratings merely acknowledge that California's locations and climates, Southern California especially and San Bernardino in particular, contribute to elevated fire risks. Although San Bernardino County rates high in risk, it also rates high in resilience: it recovers from disasters, learns from them and journeys to the future with confidence in its abilities to provide effective, efficient and timely responses to fire-related crises, and thus to protect its people, property and the environment. San Bernardino County also has quality and dedicated personnel, an innovative technological approach to firefighting and a Board of Supervisors that supports the county's Fire Protection District. San Bernardino is prepared to respond to events and to confront and overcome the risks. They Are Ready! San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 107 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Findings: Recommendations: Implementation Required Date: Responses: 07/01/26 SBC Board of

R2: Bernardino The City of SB The GJ recommends City Council does not currently that the City of San keep complainants Bernardino keep informed of the resident complainants progress of the apprised of the complaint. Thus, progress on every there is no logged complaint. The San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 41 consistent method city needs to report to of informing all all complainants every complainants of ten days 1) the receipt, receipt and 2) the progress, 3) the progress of the outcome or resolution complaint, leaving of the complaint and 4) residents with the an explanation of why it may be taking longer, thought that if applicable. nothing is being done. 06/01/26 San

R3: Bernardino The GJ recommends The City of San City Council Bernardino has no that ALL complaints consistent system from speakers at City for ensuring that Council meetings are every speaker at logged into the city's the city council one central database meetings is and assigned a tracking number for further contacted, with the complaint logged reference. into the centralized log, causing frustration among residents and the appearance that the city does not follow through on speakers' concerns. 06/01/26 San

R4: Bernardino The GJ recommends Many complaints City Council that all staff enter are reported 42 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report directly to a complaints directly into the CRMS. variety of individuals and may not be logged into CRMS leading to frustration among complainants. 06/01/26 San

R5: Bernardino The CRMS data is The GJ recommends City Council not available on that the city council direct the Call Center the city website, nor reported to the to publish the CRMS city council and monthly reports online and report it to the city the public at council quarterly at its meetings, causing a lack of meetings. transparency and frustration among some residents. 06/01/26 San

R6: Bernardino The GJ recommends As of the writing City Council of this report, the that the city council City of San authorize and Bernardino has implement a separate study to see if more not completed a study to determine employees are needed if the Call Center to work at the Call has an adequate Center. number of employees to consistently handle and process all the San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 43 complaints that are lodged which can cause uncertainty among some residents. 06/01/26 San

R7: Bernardino The GJ has found The GJ recommends City Council that a formal written that the city does not have a formal procedure manual be written policy produced to ensure that and/or procedure there is consistency manual for across departments for the handling of all handling complaints, complaints. causing inconsistency in the handling of residents' issues. BIBLIOGRAPHY Census.gov City of San Bernardino website Google.com Labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov National Civic League American City Award Past Winners 44 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report San Bernardino Sun, April 8, 2021 "San-bernardino-sets-date-to-begin-clearing- oxbow-site-of-broken-concrete" GLOSSARY Customer Relationship Management System (CRMS): a licensed computer information system into which complaints are entered, assigned a tracking number, delegated to the appropriate city department to handle and follow-up communications are made with the complainant. Call Center: refers to either the physical location where employees who handle complaint calls are located (Vanir Towers) or the phone number listed on the San Bernardino city website and flyers to use to make complaints. City Charter: a legal document that establishes municipalities and provides a framework for its local government and defines the organization, powers, functions and essential procedures of the government. City Council Member: an individual elected to the city council which has legislative power to enact ordinances, resolutions, policies, enforcement and funding actions to enhance the social and economic well-being of the city's residents. (sanbernardino.gov) San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 45 Departmental Open/Close Reports: weekly reports generated by the CRM System which include the complaints and dates received, the status of the complaint, to whom it was assigned and the expected closing date of the complaint. Reports are distributed to department heads and to individual city council members. GJ: 2025 San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury GOSBCity: the app provided by the City of San Bernardino to register complaints. Complaints are then entered into the CRMS. Manager-City Council Form of Government: a form of government characterized by a city council that oversees the general administration, makes policy, sets budgets and appoints a professional city manager to carry out day-to-day administrative operations. MCCUpdates: an intranet email account managed by personnel in the City Manager's office to report complaints received by the Mayor, City Council members or departments other than the Neighborhood Customer Services Operation Center. Neighborhood Customer Services Operations Center: located at Vanir Towers, 290 N. D St, San Bernardino, it is the physical location where Customer Service Employees work. They serve as initial contact for visitors to City Hall as there is a 46 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report front counter and it is also where they answer all complaint calls made to the city. Also known as the Call Center. Oxbow (Site): Concrete removed from a warehouse fire in Redlands in 2020 and transported to the North Verdemont District of San Bernardino which was to be used in a planned residential development. However the project faced numerous obstacles, the concrete remains at its location, and the project is still a subject of discussion within the community and city council. Pulling a complaint: downloading the information regarding a complaint. SBC: City of San Bernardino. Service Requests: formal request for service to be provided. Requests can be either external (such as city residents or visitors) or internal (such as one city department requesting assistance from another department). Transfer request: the City of San Bernardino's title for requests initiated by one department for services to be provided by another department. Ward: an administrative division of the city that elects and is represented by one city council member. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 47 APPENDIX Call Center Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday, 7:30 to 5:30, and Friday, 7:30 to 4:30. Its physical location is in the Vanir Towers, 290 N. D Street, 1st Floor, San Bernardino, CA 92401. Phone number is (909) 384-7272 for city services. www.sanbernardino.gov/236/CodeComplaints: San Bernardino About Contact Us Services How Do I Government Q 0 a n Search... 12 Steps Home > Government > Departments > Community Development & Housing > Code Enforcement Division > Code Complaints Code Complaints Code Complaints Crime Free Multi-Housing Program FAQs Please submit a service request and fill out the form as completely as possible. Missing information could result in an inability to confirm the existence of a violation, and therefore, we may not be able to assist you. Report Graffiti Upon receipt of the complaint, a code enforcement officer will issue a Notice of Complaint if there are no previous violations or will make a visit to the Single-Family Rental Property location. Once verified, a responsible party will receive a notice of the violation and be given a time frame to correct the problem. The time frame will vary Inspection Program with the type of violation. A failure to correct the problem will result in remedial or punitive action being taken. Actions could include abatement by the City or its agents, or criminal complaint, or the issuance of an administrative citation. Code Enforcement Newsletter Q ш Agendas & Minutes Employment Doing Business in Homeless Solutions Animal Services Parks and Recreation Opportunities San Bernardino Select Language ~ (Code Complaints from San Bernardino City Website) 48 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VIDE HO VID CHYC 0877 07 San Bernardino CEIS Official Zoning Map Map of San Bernardino City Wards San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 49 5 CHINGON EVER 48TH S 40TH ST PLONE DR 30TH ST EDMONT TATE ST A DR PILES WGHLAND AVE HLAND AV IDE AVE 6 OSA G AV BASELINE RD BASELINE BASELINE ST TE HTE ST 9ТН PTUS GREENSPOT RO 5TH ST TH ST RR FOOTHILL BLVD RIALTO ANE ALABAMA S LENG NO RIALTO AVE 1 ORANGE ST AD AV GST ST MILL STO MERRILL AVE CENTRAL AVE SAN BERNARDINO AVE ORANGE SHOW AD ICHO AV AN BERNARDINO AVE 3 VALLEY BLVD FAIRWAY DR REDLANDS BLVD SLOVER AVE SAN PARTIES HUNTSL CADENADR EN CITRUS AVE 34AMANSA RD BARTON RD SPATING ARION Map of Wards of San Bernardino City (Courtesy of San Bernardino City website) 50 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report San Bernardino 1 210 72 = 1st Council Ward District acilities Legend Gavenment Cert Lowy Pulco Facilities K-12 Public Schools bscitz s Snooping University Valley Cologe Shoregrau Ξ Scots Theate District Control of The AMERICA □ Tree 9 1 1 曲 Live - 40 a professiving - ~~~ Sañ Bernardino CEIS ( ••• MA wife 1 FORMEFORME - (i) _=0 _2 CHIC 10 - 15 1 - 8 W 1 - TR ST 90 1 ___ 511 San Bernardino 1 3rd Council Ward District Facilities Legend 2 Parks Police Facilitie Justice Library K-12 Public Sch Shoppin University talley College Theand 1 UCTORACE. 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A NORC'F SCATES & 30TH ST 1CAR 1 201 2511 XS COUNTRYCUM earries ALXWOOD. 28TH SPAN. HONOR ACKER ALDONOUS THST 277H COLFTEND ₹ 26TH 1611 WATERMAN 79719 2010 IRROW 22 BELL NOTECH n 247 овоне NT4 N. 2150 2365 HIGHLAND -= PRODUCTION OF THE PERSON. How to file a complaint in the City of San Bernardino (See flyer below) HOW DO I REQUESTCITY SERVICES? See a pothole that needs fixing? Graffiti, broken sprinkler, illegal dumping? (909) 384-7272 MOBILE APP HOURS 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM www.sbcity.org - 290 North D St., San Bernardino, CA 92401 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 57 This Page Left Intentionally Blank 58 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report Are They Ready? 0 (C) COUNTY SAN BERNARDINO RESCUE EMS FIRE An Investigation into the Readiness of the San Bernardino County Fire Protectction District San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 59 SUMMARY Wildfires devastated Los Angeles County during 2025. They destroyed neighborhoods, consumed homes and scorched the earth. Media criticized both the Los Angeles County Fire and Los Angeles City Fire Departments; they were not prepared to fight such conditions. After the review and initial investigation, it was determined that the wildfires were the result of a "perfect storm": low humidity, dried vegetation and gale-force winds. Neither LA County Fire nor any other responding agencies could have prevented the fires' spread or the destruction that ensued. San Bernardino took note, and the Civil Grand Jury wondered, is San Bernardino County prepared to fight not only devastating wildfires, but also the routine fires that occur every day? The San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury investigated and found that overall San Bernardino County Fire Protection District is well-prepared. It did uncover some deficiencies: San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (SBCFPD) maintains fire • apparatus and firefighting equipment. Its two maintenance shops and its parts warehouse are situated in three locations, approximately four miles from each other. To effect efficient repairs and maintenance, mechanics must travel among locations, often causing delays in returning vehicles to online service status. SBCFPD has introduced drones and robotics into its firefighting arsenal. Drones provide real-time data on the fire spread and on other developing problems, which helps coordinate firefighting efforts. SBCFPD has developed a drone and robotics program, and has offered off-site training 60 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report in operating, maintaining and monitoring the equipment. At the time of this writing, SBCFPD has one supervisor/operator, and three firefighters who are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) licensed operators. Such a minimal staff is insufficient to take advantage of this crucial new technology. The Occupational Safety and Health Agency (OSHA) requires that a minimum of two firefighters remain outside a burning structure while two other firefighters enter the building to fight the fire (the "two-in/two-out" policy). SBCFPD does not comply with the rule. Instead, it deploys only three firefighters per engine: one firefighter/paramedic, one engineer and one captain. The lack of an additional person creates delay in fire-fighting capability and victim rescue. SBCFPD trains its new recruits to meet the qualifications necessary for certification. Many complete their training and then leave SBCFPD for positions with other fire agencies. BACKGROUND San Bernardino County (SBC) is the largest county geographically in the contiguous United States. SBC has approximately 1,000 square miles of residential environments and approximately 19,000 square miles of desert environments that are managed by five different entities: SBC, the State of California, the Federal Government, Indigenous Peoples tribal lands and the United States military. Its sheer size, combined with a mix of densely populated cities, rural communities and vast wilderness, creates a unique set of challenges for San Bernardino County Fire Protection District (sbcfire.org/about). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 61 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 2025 National Risk Index and the 2024 Office of the California State Fire Marshal (osfm.fire.ca.gov/), created a set of maps showing the Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) which rate most of SBC as a very high fire risk. This high level of risk requires the SBCFPD to approach the fire district's work with humility and an unwavering commitment to innovative solutions, ensuring fire services provide the best possible service to our citizens and the countless visitors the protective district serve (sbcfire.org/about). The service area for the SBCFPD is bordered on the: North by the Kern, Inyo and Los Angeles Counties South by Riverside and Orange Counties • East by Nevada and Arizona state lines West by Los Angeles County (sbcfire.org/about). Canvon-Paras Las Vegas Pahrump National Monumen ia Henderson orest HUALAPAI Ridgecres Laughlin Kingman Mojave lational reserve 40 Lake Havasu City ta ngeles National Forest Joshua Tree Beach COLORADO RIVER National Park RESERVATION Map 1: SBCFPD service area (sbcfire.org/about) 62 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report SBCFPD protects a county with a population of over two million residents, and its goal is to serve the communities with the best in fire protection and offer a professional and dedicated response when citizens of SBC call for help. Over the course of a year, the fire district responds to tens of thousands of calls. OSECO Photo 1: Deluge Hose Company Number 2 circa 1894 (sanbernardino.gov/601) In December 1890, a second station was built in the north part of town at 9th and "F" Streets. Instead of just being called Station 2, it was called "Deluge Hose Company Number 2". It only consisted of the "Rumsey" hand-drawn hose cart that was previously "Pioneer Number 1". This company was in existence until May 1894 when it closed for unknown reasons. The history of SBCFPD is rooted in local fire departments, and joint ventures which began with the formation of individual fire departments. The first fire company in San Bernardino was organized on June 26, 1865, at a meeting of citizens at Pine's Hotel. The first fire station was located on Third San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 63 Street, at the foot of "C" Street (now known as Arrowhead Avenue) in San Bernardino. The company was in existence until 1871 when the property was sold. (sanbernardino. gov/884/Fire-Department). The present fire department was founded on October 3, 1878, when members of the old company formed a volunteer company. The funds from the sale of property and equipment in 1871 were used in the formation of the new company. The volunteer department was in operation until December 3, 1889. At that time, the department was reorganized under Chief D. H. Wixom and became a partly paid department (sanbernardino.gov/884/Fire-Department). Some of the key milestones in fire department's history: Time Period Milestones Formation of San Bernardino area's first fire company 1865 Formation of the present fire department as an all-volunteer 1878 station Volunteer department became a partly paid department 1889 Formation of Fontana Fire Department 1928 Muscoy and Bloomington join Fontana to form the Central Valley 1973 Fire Protection District. Chino joined the Central Valley Fire Protection District to form the 1982 West San Bernardino Valley Fire Agency. Chino became an independent department, and the San Bernardino 1985 County Fire Agency was formed. The Fire Reorganization Plan was finalized, merging 27 separate 2008 fire districts into the current SBCFPD. This created four regional service zones and unified administrative functions. The SBCFPD opened its first dedicated headquarters building 2022 marking a historic moment in its 94-year history. Chart 1: Created by SBC 2025 Civil Grand Jury (iafflocal935.org/history) 64 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The SBCFPD is an agency that has evolved into one of the most technologically advanced firefighting and emergency services organizations in the country. The fire district relies on cutting-edge technology, strategic resource deployment and highly trained personnel to keep its 2.2 million residents safe. The district employs over 1,060 people, of which 760 full-time suppression personnel staff the 51 fire stations across the county. Additionally, there are six paid-call stations that rely on part-time firefighters to provide emergency services. These paid-call stations are typically located in more remote or less-densely populated areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage and timely response throughout the county (sbcfire.org/about). SBCFPD is divided into five regional divisions: West Valley, East Valley, Mountains, South Desert and North Desert, each covering a different geographic and demographic area. These divisions ensure resources are strategically placed for optimized response, whether in high-density neighborhoods or remote rural communities (sbcfire.org/about). Due to the diversity of the areas that the fire protection district covers, fire personnel operate on a wide range of apparatuses, including but not limited to: engines, squads, trucks, ambulances, helicopters, snowcats and boats. What truly sets SBCFPD apart from other fire agencies is its innovative approach to using technology in firefighting, emergency medical services and disaster response (sbcfire.org/about). Technology has revolutionized modern firefighting and this fire district has been at the forefront of adopting and implementing advanced tools to enhance safety and efficiency. The SBCFPD's Technology Plan 2030 outlines a strategic roadmap to integrate current and emerging technologies aimed at enhancing hazard mitigation, risk reduction, life and property protection, firefighter safety, operational efficiency and service levels (sbcfire.org/Technology-Plan-2030.pdf). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 65 Offering services beyond fire suppression and protection, the county Office of Emergency Services (OES) provides disaster assistance to all 24 cities and towns in our county as well as support to the county. The OES staff has ensured the county is officially "Storm Ready" as well as organizing the county's participation in the multi-agency disaster response exercise "Golden Guardian." The OES also leads the county's participation in the "Great California Shake Out", the largest earthquake preparedness exercise in U.S. history, since its kickoff in 2008. Exercises like these are designed to better prepare the department, the county and the citizens for a major disaster. (oes.sbcounty.gov). The Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) includes not only the Fire Marshal, but also: fire prevention, fire investigations, public education, planning and engineering, hazardous materials emergency response, household hazardous waste and records retention (sbcfire.org/ofm). The Administration Division includes vehicle maintenance, warehouse services and facility maintenance (sbcfire.org). The Training Division provides a variety of training courses and includes an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) section which is staffed with two registered nurses and a paramedic as certified trainers. The Training Division is also responsible for the department safety programs. Located a mile to the west is the Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) training center which is where firefighters are all FAA trained of aircraft firefighting in approved aspects (sbcfire.org/emsspecialoperationsandtraining/). San Bernardino County firefighters are dedicated to protecting communities from a variety of threats, including wildfires, hazardous materials incidents and medical emergencies. 66 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report METHODOLOGY In 2025, Los Angeles County (LAC) and some of its population ere the victims of two 100 mph wind-driven fires, the Palisades and Eaton Fires. The television and print media reported on these fires, and in the process, a story emerged about the number of fire engines that were parked in a Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) parking lot. Running with this story, the press wanted to know, "Why are these fire engines not being used in the fighting of the two current fires?" The 2025 San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury (CGJ) gained knowledge of this story from both television and print media releases. This raised a question for the CGJ, "Is the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District prepared to fight a wind-driven fire of this magnitude?" The CGJ investigated the preparedness of SBCFPD to suppress fires. The methods used by CGJ to gather evidence were: • Obtained and reviewed official SBCFPD documents, statistics and reports Gathered information from the SBCFPD's and other websites • Interviewed several current SBCFPD employees and associates: • Fire Administrators 0 Maintenance personnel Fire Captains The CGJ used some of this data to create charts and graphs to clarify the interpretation of this data. DISCUSSION With the threat of wildfire within San Bernardino County, it takes more than the fire department to be ready to fight the threat, including individuals, community fire departments and political representatives. Everyone is involved and responsible. The CGJ will focus on the SBCFPD's readiness to fight such fires and the tools needed to mitigate loss. Workforce Breakdown OSHA revised its Respiratory Protection Standard issued on January 8, 1998. Now it contains a section requiring a minimum of two firefighters that must be available outside a structure while interior firefighting operations are conducted inside by at least two other firefighters (osha.gov/ laws-regs/regulations). OSHA's "two-in/two-out" policy for firefighting is a safety measure requiring a minimum of two firefighters equipped with Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) to enter an Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) atmosphere, while at least two other firefighters remain outside and ready to assist in case of an emergency. These outside firefighters are often able to perform other duties, but they must be able to readily assist or rescue those on the inside. The objective is to provide backup and rapid intervention in case of an emergency during interior firefighting operations (osha.gov/ laws-regs/ regulations). 68 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report Evidence shows that many of the county's fire stations have only three personnel assigned to each engine company: a captain, a firefighter/engineer and a firefighter/paramedic per shift. If, for instance, an IDLH occurs, this responding apparatus must wait for a second apparatus to arrive on the scene of the incident before firefighters can enter the burning structure. The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District responds to 12 different types of calls: Structure Fires, Vegetation Fires, Vehicular Fires, Medical Aid, Hazardous Traffic Collisions Rescues, Materials, with Extrication, Investigation/Alarms, Public Service, Other Fires and Miscellaneous. The San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury used data from the SBCFPD's county website and created the two following graphs. They represent only a portion of these calls, which are structure fires, vegetation fires, vehicular fires, rescues and medical aid, from the past six fiscal years, July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2024. The data on the remaining types can be found on the SBCFPD website (sbcfire.org). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 69 Number of Calls (Fiscal Years) 1,800 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 ■ Structure ■ Vegetation ■ Vehicle ■ Rescue Chart 2: Chart created by SBC Civil Grand Jury using data from sbcfire.org Medical Calls vs Totals Calls 140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 ■ Medical Aid ■ Total Calls Chart 3: Chart created by SBC Civil Grand Jury using data from sbcfire.org 70 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The Medical Aid calls refer to any call dealing with a health issue or concern. On average most SBCFPD calls are medical aid in nature. Once the call is received, the SBCFPD dispatcher will assign a severity level based on information from the caller and then notify the appropriate unit to respond. These are the categories: Alpha - Non-Life Threatening - Basic Life Support Bravo - Possibly Life Threatening - Basic Life Support • Charlie - Life Threatening - Advanced Life Support • Delta - Serious Life Threat - Advanced Life Support Echo - Imminent Life Threat - Closest available unit Employee Retention Employee retention refers to the methods agencies use to retain employees. It is important to maintain a high retention rate, as high turnover can be costly for the organization and impacts employee morale. Some of the incentives used for employee retention are competitive benefits, pleasurable and challenging work environment and opportunities for advancement within the department. Evidence shows the SBCFPD possesses many positive aspects which have aided in employee retention. Some examples are newer firefighting equipment, proactive ideas and resources to aid firefighting, the challenge of a variety of terrains within the county along with a positive attitude workforce. Training the employees in new techniques and updated regulations is also a valuable tool. The most prominent negative points that were discovered through investigation were employee salaries and demanding work schedules. The CGJ learned that the scheduling issues are being addressed. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 71 The CGJ learned that retention of trained and qualified firefighters and paramedics is an issue that the district must contend with, despite the attraction of technological advances available. The national average base salary for a firefighter is $59,606 annually (ziprecruiter.com). In California, the highest average base salary is $80,990. California is among the highest paid states for firefighters; however, it also has the most expensive cost of living (bls.gov/ocs). In SBC, the medium range of income for a firefighter/paramedic is $60,000 to $95,000 annually (glassdoor.com/salaries). A paramedic's average salary nationwide is $47,313 annually, whereas the average firefighter/paramedic salary in SBC is $60,706 dollars annually. Further research determined that the surrounding counties, i.e. Los Angeles and Riverside counties average base salaries are between $94,829 indeed.com/career/ and $107,920 (joinlafd.org/salary and paramedic/salaries). At the time of writing this report, SBCFPD is advertising open positions of a Firefighter/Paramedic at a salary (with benefits) of $90,000 with built-in overtime (OT) to start (governmentjobs.com/careers/sanbernardino/jobs). The CARE Program Evidence shows that firefighting is a dangerous and stressful profession. What most people do not realize is that firefighters don't just fight fires, they also assist in many medical emergencies. The data shows that four out of five emergency calls per day received are medical emergencies. Firefighters are exposed to many types of medical tragedies daily. SBCFPD utilizes the CARE Team Program to support and retain its valuable firefighters: 72 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The SBCFPD has developed the Crisis Accountability/Assessment Response Education Team and the SBC Fire Benevolent Foundation to address the mental, emotional and financial well-being of its personnel and their families. These initiatives reflect a proactive, organized effort to provide crisis intervention, peer support, education and financial assistance to employees in need. The CARE Team Mission The CARE Team's goal is to reduce stigma around mental health and ensure employees have access to timely support. Its programs focus on a Triad of Care which include Peer-to-Peer Support, Spiritual/Self-Care and Clinician/Physical Support. Peer-to-Peer Support - trained personnel providing confidential listening and crisis intervention. Spiritual/Self-Care - support through chaplains, wellness approaches and non-clinical resources. Clinician/Physician Support - access to professional medical and mental health services. Specialized Groups Under the CARE Team The team uses an Incident Management Team (IMT) approach to organize specialized groups. There are nine specialized groups that play a crucial role in meeting the overall mission of the CARE Team. Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD): provides immediate defusing and structured debriefs after traumatic events San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 73 Chaplains: offer emotional, mental and spiritual support (without proselytizing), available for rapid crisis response Canine Program: certified peer support dogs and handlers providing comfort in crisis situations Administration/Finance: handles budgets, grants, clerical work and funding for resources • Communication: maintains contact with injured or ill personnel, while protecting confidentiality • Education: ensures training, continuing education and dissemination of mental health resources • Events and Fundraising: organizes large-scale events and supports financial resources for the CARE mission • Retirement: provides guidance on workers' compensation, injury navigation and retirement planning Resources: researching and vetting therapies, treatments, rehabilitation centers and alternative care options Key Objectives of the CARE Team • Change the stigma around seeking mental health services. Encourage personnel to seek help early and make use of available education and prevention resources. Promote open communication, mutual support, and healthy lifestyle practices. The CARE Team also collaborates and provides the Cordico Wellness App for online resources. (Wellness App - Cordico) 74 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report San Bernardino County Fire Benevolent Foundation The Foundation was formed in 2017 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to provide financial assistance to employees and their families in crisis. Key Features: 100% donation-funded, no salaries paid to Board members • Managed by an internal board of fire service experienced • persons Committed to delivering maximum assistance directly to employees Eligibility: Active and Retired SBCPFD employees, both Management and Labor Immediate family members (spouses/partners, children, parents, • siblings) Forms of Assistance: • Housing (temporary or permanent) Transportation for medical/family emergencies • Medical or mental health expenses, including alternative • treatments Basic living expenses (utilities, food, childcare) • Funeral and related travel costs San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 75 The CARE Team and the San Bernardino County Fire Benevolent Foundation demonstrate a comprehensive, organized approach to crisis support for fire personnel. Together, they provide immediate peer and professional support, long-term educational and wellness initiatives and financial assistance in times of personal or family crisis. These programs reflect the department's commitment to caring for its own workforce while fostering a culture of resilience, accountability and compassion. Mutual Aid The CGJ learned that Mutual Aid is based upon the concept of "neighbor helping neighbor." It consists of agreements between Cal Fire (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection), and all fire agencies within California. (caloes.ca.gov). The California Government Code §8619.5 mandates that the Office of Emergency Services in consultation with relevant local and state governments develop and adopt a state fire services and rescue emergency Mutual Aid plan. The plan must include systematic mobilization, organization and operation of fire, rescue and hazardous material resources on a local area, regional and statewide basis to mitigate the effects of disasters among several other aspects (caloes.ca.gov). Under this code, Cal Fire was established to coordinate the state's fire protection program (fire.ca.gov). California requires a coordinated effort from multiple agencies to effectively respond to emergencies such as wildfires, structural fires, floods, earthquakes, hazardous material incidents and medical aid. This 76 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report program brings state, federal and local agencies together through contracts and agreements (law.justia.com/codes/california/2005/gov/8615-8619). Through these agreements, Cal Fire is named as the lead agency in providing fire, rescue, dispatch and paramedic services to cities and towns in California that are not designated as state responsibilities (fire.ca.gov/about). These agreements are renewed every five years and outline the responsibilities of Cal Fire and SBCFPD. The mutual agreement is extended with the express understanding that the Incident Commander (IC) shall remain in charge of such incident, including the direction of personnel and equipment provided through the operation of this mutual aid agreement (fema.gov/emergency-managers/nims). Financial assistance is provided under Government Code §8654.2 through a statewide program to communities for all hazards and support of a comprehensive mitigation reduce risks impacts of disasters strategy and and (california.public.law/codes/gov.code section 8654.2). Photo 2: SBCFPD Mobile Command Vehicle (Courtesy of SBC Civil Grand Jury) San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 77 A mobile command vehicle is designed to replicate an agency's emergency operation center with its advanced technology and communications capabilities. Maintenance SBCFPD's maintenance, called Fleet Maintenance, has approximately 30 employees: administrators, shop supervisor, and various classifications of mechanics, remote mechanics, parts chasers and parts servicers. The SBCFPD mechanics specifically inspect and diagnose mechanical, electrical and electronic issues. They also perform tasks like tune-ups, overhauls, adjustments, replacements and preventative maintenance on engines, transmissions, differentials and other components (cafiremech.com). All the mechanics, specifically those working with fire apparatus and equipment, are certified by a combination of organizations and departments. These include the California Fire Mechanics Academy (CFMA), the State Fire Training (SFT) (within the California Office of the State Fire Marshal) and potentially through Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) certifications (osfm.fire. ca.gov). The Emergency Vehicle Technician (EVT) Certification Commission, Inc. is the primary organization that certifies fire department mechanics. They offer various levels of certification, including the Fire Apparatus Technician Master Level III (evttcc.org). The National Fire Protection Association also plays a role developing standards and certifications relevant to fire service vehicles (nfpa.org). SBCFPD's Fleet Maintenance section maintains over 800 units of mobile equipment and vehicles. This number includes fire engines, trucks and specialty equipment. 78 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The following chart gives the designation type and a description for each type of fire engine: Description Type 1 The fire truck that typically responds to structural fires is the most common type of fire truck in use today. It has the capacity to carry four firefighters. Like Type 1 and are equipped with the same specs and tools. They are 2 also the most common truck seen in a suburban area responding to structural fires. It has the capacity to carry four firefighters. 3 These engines have four-wheel drive to make driving over rough terrains easier. The Type 3 must be able to transport at least three crew members. Type 3 and Type 4 often look like one another. However, the biggest difference is their minimum personnel and tank capacities. The Type 4 wildland engine is very similar to the Type 3 but has a few 4 distinct differences. Type 4 is used to drive over rough terrain and sacrifices a smaller pump and less hose for a larger 750-gallon water tank. The minimum number of personnel a Type 4 must carry is two. 5, 6, 7 Types 5, 6 and 7 are customized to meet the needs of each specific department. These vehicles are typically pick-up truck with four-wheel drive. These engines are often seen in both wildland and suburban settings. This classification is designed to hold a minimum of two firefighters and carry hose diameters ranging from 1 inch to 1-½ inch. Chart 4: Engine Types (bmefire.com/types-of-fire-trucks) San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 79 The following photos show the four most common pieces of apparatus in the SBCFPD fleet: A CONTRACTOR OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY OF THE PARTY O THE NORTH Photo 3: Type 1 engine (sbcfire.org) Type 1 Engine The fire truck that typically responds to structural fires is the most common type of fire truck in use today. Three or four firefighters are usually assigned to each of these vehicles (sbcfire.org). AVRIDING GOUNTRY FIRE MT 42 Photo 4: Aerial Ladder Truck (sbcfire.org). 80 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The Aerial Ladder Truck provides firefighters with a 100' of vertical and 90' of horizontal reach and provides high-reach fire suppression and rescue operations (sbcfire.org). Gara Photo 5: Med Squads (en.wikipedia.org) Med squads, based upon a pick-up truck frame, differ from ambulances in that they do not transport patients to medical facilities. (en.wikipedia.org) San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 81 Photo 6: Type 3 Engine (sbcfire.org). Type 3 Engine (Bush Patrol) These engines have four-wheel drive to make traveling over rough terrains easier. The Type 3 must be able to transport at least three crew members and has a pump and water tank (sbcfire.org). SBCFPD's Fleet Maintenance sections utilize two types of computer software: Faster and Firenet. Faster is a fleet management software package that SBCFPD has been using for 15 years. The software is designed to maximize the fleet's return on investment with predictive maintenance, repair parts acquisition and vehicle optimization. Every vehicle owned by the SBCFPD is entered into the software when it is purchased and remains in software until the vehicle is scrapped. All the maintenance performed on this vehicle is reflected in this program (fasterasset. com). Firenet is a software package that shows all the preventive maintenance schedules for each of the department's vehicles. It can automatically produce a report on each vehicle when either scheduled or requested (inspect. com) 82 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report SBCFPD's Fleet Maintenance section has five full-time mechanics stationed in the remote divisions of the upper desert area. Each of these mechanics is assigned individual pick-up based Remote Service Trucks (RST) and moves from station-to- station performing routine preventative maintenance, such as oil changes, tire changes, filter changes, etc. These mechanics also respond to minor emergency repairs. If there is a more serious problem, a reserve engine is dispatched as replacement to the out-of-service vehicle. These mechanics take their RSTs home with them at night so that the mechanic does not need to return to the maintenance yards between work orders. The only time the mechanic must return to the maintenance yards is for resupply and in cases of an emergency (firstdue.com/). The CGJ learned that the two maintenance shops and the parts warehouse are in three different locations. One maintenance shop is located on "D" Street and the other is on Lena Road. Both locations are within the San Bernardino City limits and are about four miles apart. The parts warehouse is located on Caroline Street. This current situation presents several problems for Fleet Maintenance. Mechanics, especially the supervisors and mechanical staff, must travel from one shop to the other, several times during the workday. Consolidating these locations could be cost- effective and timesaving. The CGJ also learned that today's fire vehicles are more electronically- controlled than mechanically controlled. Some of the mechanics within the department are able to manufacture several of the needed parts when orders are delayed. But the department must order electronics. In addition, the quality of these parts is often substandard. Evidence showed that a brand-new electronic part was installed and immediately failed. This is a common occurrence when dealing with electronics that must be imported from other parts of the world. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 83 Not only parts, but new replacement fire equipment may take as long as 27 months to get replaced. Evidence shows, when the SBCFPD orders a new Type 1 or 2 engine, they order it bare and equip it within the maintenance shops upon its arrival. Pick-up trucks are also difficult to obtain in a timely manner, taking up to eight months for delivery. Technology Photo 7: SBCFPD drone and chase vehicle (courtesy of SBCFPD) One of the popular changes to the firefighting field is the introduction of drones and robotics. The concept of using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) also 84 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report called drones in firefighting was first presented to the public at the 2011 Fire Department Instructors Conference International conference (FDICI) (fdic.com). Initially, drone use was limited, with fire departments primarily using drones only for aerial photography and videography. The first use to assist with a fire incident was by the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACFD) in a 2017 wildfire, using two drones to gain crucial real-time data on fire spread to help coordinate firefighting efforts. According to several fire fighter trade publications, it has been estimated that in 2023 over 500 U.S. fire departments have now integrated drone technology. (lafra.org/lafd-drones-and-pilots) San Bernardino County Fire Protection District is also included in this statistic and has started their own drone and robotics program known as BDC Fire Robotics (BDCFR) (the BDC is a designator assigned by the State of California). The goal is to take full advantage of the growing technology in both the drone and robotic fields. With the addition of these unmanned resources, the BDCFR can design a protection plan that will be able to support and improve the capabilities of the SBCFPD by air, land and water (sbcfire.org). The growth of this program will require an increase in trained personnel to operate, maintain and monitor this equipment. Drone operators must become a Federal Aviation Administration licensed drone pilot/operator by completing and passing a certified testing course (faa.gov/uas/commercial operators). As for the land and aquatic robotic units, they do not require any state or federal licenses. The CGJ encourages the SBCFPD to establish its own training and certification program for these resources. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 85 At the time of writing this report, the BDCFR department is only staffed by one full-time manager/pilot and three other firefighters who hold FAA drone licenses (sbcfire.org). The CGJ recommends a staffing increase in trained drone and robotic operators. A well-trained support staff is paramount. The option of using non- firefighting personnel (i.e. civilians) in some of the roles of trained certified drone and robot operators could help increase the workforce and keep the trained firefighters where they are needed most. The BDC Fire Robotics department's lineup of robotics and drones is making SBC one of the leading fire departments in the country with its new and diverse resources. The following photos and descriptions show the types and capabilities of these aerial, land and aquatic robots: Photo 8: DJI Matrice 30T - M30T (courtesy of SBCFPD) 86 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The CGJ learned about the DJI Matrice 30T (M30T), which can fly for about 25 minutes and can reach an altitude above 10,000 feet, but it is planned to operate closer to the ground. M30T is equipped with both wide angle and zoom cameras, a thermal imaging camera and a laser range finder. The M30T drone can also be equipped with a spotlight and loudspeaker to assist with ground communications. Recently SBCFPD received two new Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) models from Dunlevy Consulting Inc. These winged drones designated as Angel- 1BPEs are designed to travel farther and faster than the smaller M30T models. With its 10-foot wingspan, it can reach altitudes of 11,000 feet with a flight speed over 53 mph with a duration time estimated at two hours. These features will be key in any district surveying, area monitoring and also may contribute with search and rescue incidents. Photo 9: Dunley's Angel -1BPE drone (Courtesy of 2025 SBC Civil Grand Jury) The BDCFR will soon receive the Oceanbotics SRV-8, a submersible remotely operated vehicle which will be utilized in the waterways of SBC, from the lakes in the mountains to the Colorado River. The SRV-8 is attached to a control San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 87 tether and can reach depths up to 1,000 feet. It includes eight thrusters, two lights, a multi-tilt camera and a manipulator arm. Its operating time is between six and eight hours. Its mission will be to survey waterways, assist search and rescue teams and help with recovery efforts (go.oceanbotics.com). Photo 10: SRV-8 submersible (go.oceanbotics.com) SBCFPD has also obtained a ground-based robot from Icor Technology, the Mini Caliber tractor rover. It is equipped with a robotic arm, an articulating camera, a thermal infrared camera as well as two-way communications. With its rubber treads, it can climb stairs and maneuver around small obstacles. Its main job will be searching in and around structures and confined areas which are hard to reach could pose a hazard to the fire crews and other personnel or (icortechnology.com/robots/mini-caliber). 88 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report Photo 11: Mini Caliber tractor (icortechnology.com/robots) Drone First Responder (DFR) Drones have been used by fire departments for almost a decade. The first DFR was originally tested in 2018, when the Chula Vista Police department used a drone to respond to a 911 call (chulavistaca.gov). The program involves strategically stationed drones that can be quickly deployed to an emergency before traditional first responders arrive. The program is being utilized in other counties and states as well as in many countries (flocksafety.com). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 89 Photo 12: Drone view on laptop and controller (Courtesy of SBCFPD) BDCFR's plan is to utilize the M30T (or similar) model drones with their multi-functional platform. These drones would be spread out atop different stations within the fire district and be housed in a self-sustaining enclosure. The plan for these drones is to be remotely dispatched first to the reported incident and obtain real time video and data from an aerial view. This information can be sent to the responding units which would be equipped with tablets so the responding crews can see in real time what type of call to which they are responding. This serves a multitude of benefits because the approaching units can start to assess the situation and see if additional units are needed (or, in some cases, not needed and may stand down) and start to map out a plan of action (flocksafety.com). 90 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report Once the drone is on the scene, the drone operator (pilot) can position the drone above the incident at an altitude which will show all sides of the location. It can zoom in to any possible trouble spots or other unseen or hidden situations. These features were proven valuable in January 2025, during a Fire-type Unknown exercise, when an unknown fire at G Street and Congress Street in the City of San Bernardino was reported. A DJI M30T drone controller, while at the top of the Caltrans building, was able to fly the drone to that location before the responding units were able to arrive minutes later. Photo 13: Drone readout on three different devices (courtesy of SBCFPD) The onboard thermal sensors were used to detect any hidden fire conditions inside the building before the responding units. This illustrates the immense amount San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 91 of valuable information which is critical to the responding units that would still be minutes away from the scene. The Future The drone and robotic technology field is growing, as is the further development of Artificial Intelligence (AI). There are numerous published reports and articles that discuss the growing integration of AI into the field of firefighting. The possible areas are in wildfire detection which could use images from satellites to detect smoke in remote areas. The area of Fire Behavior Modeling could predict how a fire will spread and its potential hazards. AI could also assist in predictive analysis to help identify risk areas through historical data. AI could also be integrated into the tools the fire departments use, for instance, enhanced communications systems and self-driving vehicles. AI devices could be integrated into the Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) that the firefighters wear (i.e. helmets) (qwake.tech). Fire helmets with Heads-Up Displays (HUDs) are an emerging technology in the suppression of fires. Systems like Qwake Technologies' C-Thru Navigator are being developed or tested. The C-Thru system uses a helmet-mounted thermal camera and AI to provide firefighters with enhanced, smoke-penetrating vision, navigation guidance and real-time communication (qwake.tech). MSA Safety Incorporated, another company developing firefighting safety technologies, has the Nightfighter. The Nightfighter system displays crucial information like air cylinder contents directly onto the SCBA mask's facepiece. (us.msasafety.com/Supplied-Air-Respirators). 92 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report If SBCFPD had additional resources, it could cover the largest county in the country and help monitor its diverse geographical makeup. With the use of its VTOL drone and future AI mapping software, the BDCFR can survey the county's landscape for possible trouble spots, and assist in the task of Fuel Management, which refers to the removal of vegetation and other possible sources of fire. In July 2025, a company that manufactures ultralight aircraft approached SBCFPD to demonstrate a possible addition to their BDCFR inventory. The Pivotal Aero company demonstrated a VTOL, the Helix, an ultralight that could either be flown remotely or be piloted by an onboard operator. Photo 14: Pivotal Aero Helix (pivotal.aero.com) This ultralight Personal Aerial Vehicle (PAV) is just under 14 feet wide and 13.5 feet long. It has fixed rotors and tandem wings and has the capability of carrying a payload of 250 pounds onboard with a range of 20 or more miles at 65mph. The San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 93 Helix vehicle complies with the FAA Part 103 Ultralight category, so it does not require a pilot's license to operate. The proposed purchase is to utilize the Pivotal Helix as a rapid response vehicle to fly out an equipped paramedic to a situation to administer immediate medical aid and support. This demonstration was also broadcast on a local Southern California news channel (cbsnews.com). Evidence shows that with all the ongoing developments in AI software and drones and robotics, the BDCFR program will benefit SBCFPD, by reducing response time and avoid sending redundant resources to answer incident calls. The SBCFPD drone/robotic program shows a bright future. Its endless growth can provide additional support for the dedicated men and women who serve as our first responders. Water Resources The CGJ members viewed the January 2025 wildfire events in Los Angeles County (LAC) and the resulting concerns of many Los Angeles residents. According to some news reports, some residents expressed concern that water hydrants were inoperable in that they could not be connected to firefighting equipment. Another reported concern was that no water flowed from some of the public water hydrants when opened. Further concerns of residents centered around news reports that a billionaire mall developer was utilizing private fire protection services in an effort to save the mall, and thereby drained the limited public water source while residential homes were ablaze (calmatters.org/housing/2025/01/private-firefighters-insurers). 94 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The CGJ set out to assess the level of preparedness in San Bernardino County as to the availability and utilization of water resources such as hydrants and public water sources in the event of similar fire disasters. Water Hydrants In LAC, the public water hydrants are maintained and serviced by the Department of Public Works, a county department. After the January 2025 fires in Los Angeles County, it was reported that 1,350 fire hydrants were in need of repair at the time of the fires. Consequently, there were disagreements between the Department of Public Works and the Fire Department as to accountability and responsibility for hydrant operability. (Majority of Faulty Los Angeles Hydrants Repaired or Replaced | Firehouse) In contrast, in San Bernardino County the public water hydrants are maintained, repaired and monitored by a multitude of separate private water district entities throughout various jurisdictions in this large county. On March 24, 2025, Cal Fire's maps of Estimated Wildfire Risk for Southern California (Updated from 2011) was reviewed ("Inland Empire faces significantly higher wildfire risk," Cal Fire says - Riverside Press Enterprise). A random sampling of water districts within the SBC areas with the most significant increases in fire risk were reviewed regarding hydrant readiness. The hydrant maintenance and repair records for the last six to twelve months, including outside vendor contracts, if any, for hydrant service and repair were reviewed. The CGJ reviewed detailed water district records, which indicated where precisely each hydrant is located, the hydrant connection specifications, the testing San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 95 methods, the flow capacity, paint or rust notations, the test operator, the readiness status and the date. In some instances, there were reports of damage, vehicle stricken or leaking water hydrants, calls by the fire department to assist with a leaking hydrant and the resulting work orders for repair. The following data was noted from the Riverside Press Enterprise: • City of Hesperia - Fire zone risk increased from 715 acres to 15,359 acres (an increase of 14,644 acres) • Cucamonga Valley Water District (Rancho Cucamonga) - Fire zone risk increased from 5,553 acres to 8,871 acres (an increase of 3,318 acres) City of Chino Hills - Fire zone risk increased from 3,666 acres to 20,923 acres (an increase of 17,257 acres) Unincorporated San Bernardino County - Fire zone risk increased from 5,715 acres to 26,862 acres (an increase of 21,147 acres) o West Valley Water District, Rialto, CA 92376 - which serves 100,000 residents. East Valley Water District, Highland, CA 92346 - which serves 108,000 0 residents. According to evidence, the water districts have complete control regarding the state of readiness of the public water hydrants in their respective areas. There is officially no county oversight or formal reporting to exchange hydrant information between the County Department of Public Works-Special Districts, the SBCFPD or the water districts. Evidence indicated that out-of-service hydrants are reported informally via email or telephone from the local water districts to SBCFPD for input into the digital dashboard displayed in every fire station. If the water district calls dispatch on the weekend, after hours or for a major issue, dispatch will send out an alert to those 96 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report impacted by the outage. The display page listing the hydrants affected is real time in nature and any updates will be seen on the digital dashboards within a few minutes. Any issues with hydrant tampering are typically reported to dispatch. SBCFPD has been conducting a trial on tamper proof hydrant caps, and, through collaboration, special tools are provided which are necessary to open hydrants in those areas with large homeless populations. There are redundancies built in for alternative water source access if a fire hydrant is inoperable or damaged. A nearby body of water or pool can be accessed, or a Water Tender (see glossary) may be utilized. In any event, the expectation is that the inoperable hydrant is generally reported via an Incident Report or After-Action Report so that it may be repaired. There are also hydrants that are not maintained by a water district, as well as private hydrants. While San Bernardino County Department of Public Works (DPW) - Special Districts does not maintain fire hydrants located along the over 2,500 miles of roadways in the County Maintained Road System (CMRS), DPW - Special Districts is responsible for managing, operating and administering certain County Service Areas (CSAs) that provide water and sanitation services. As part of those services, Special Districts maintains fire hydrants located within the boundaries of those CSA water districts. The City of Ontario Fire Department, located within SBC, issued a procedure on January 7, 2025, notably during the LA fires. Fire Protection Standard #D008, Private Hydrant Maintenance, specifies requirements that apply to all privately owned fire hydrants within the City of Ontario. This comprehensive standard addresses the proper functioning, inspection, connections, servicing, repair and San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 97 reporting to Ontario Fire Department of private hydrants to ensure they are ready for emergency use. There is no similar policy at SBCFPD regarding standards for private hydrants that municipal firefighters may need to access during a fire event. Neighboring counties provide ultimate governmental responsibility for the repair or maintenance of public fire hydrants. In Orange County, there is shared responsibility between the Fire Division and the Water and Sewage Division of the County, with the various water districts conducting flow testing and routine maintenance. In Riverside County, public hydrants are maintained by the City of Riverside or County of Riverside, following specific guidelines by the Riverside County Fire Department (Guidelines, Policies, and Standards - Riverside County Fire Department). According to Riverside County Fire Department Policy (Guideline OFM- 01B), the Office of the Fire Marshal retains final authority to determine compliance with facilities to which emergency response may be necessary. It also has authority to ensure that both privately owned water-based fire protection systems, and public fire hydrants necessary for emergency response purposes will always be available for use. The OFM retains final authority to determine compliance (RVC Access and Water Guideline). In contrast, there is no SBC official or department with ultimate authority and responsibility to ensure that the public water hydrants are kept in a ready state of operation and that statutorily mandated standards as to distance, flow and connection capabilities are followed. There are a multitude of private water districts that operate under their own authority and rules. Yet they also have responsibility for the public water hydrants. 98 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report The CGJ recommends that the Board of Supervisors request all water districts provide regular reports to SBCFPD showing compliance with federal guidelines and standards. The report should cover compliance with standards of hydrants including those previously called in to SBCFPD dispatch as inoperable. This will increase accountability and ensure compliance with statutorily mandated standards. Evidence was received that there is a lack of certainty that standards and guidelines are followed to ensure functionality and operability of water hydrants in the county. The Office of Emergency Services, SBCFPD and the Department of Public Works-Special Districts operate on trust that the many privately controlled water districts are fulfilling their obligation to maintain and service the public hydrants which are utilized by all firefighters. Riverside County oversees hydrant regulations to ensure compliance with California Fire Building Codes and local ordinances. This includes guidelines for hydrant quantity and placement to enhance fire safety and response capabilities. Additionally, Riverside County has enacted strict regulations for both residential and commercial properties to promote conservation and efficiency (RVC Access and Water Guideline). The CGJ recommends that the Board of Supervisors make SBCFPD aware of any existing formal agreements for hydrant services or consider initiating agreements with the water districts in the county which address maintenance, operability, functionality and communication standards. Formal agreements of which all parties are aware will increase communication, expectations, certainty and consistency between the partners. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 99 Private Fire Protection Companies There is growing concern throughout California over limited water resources. The water intended for public use and for public good should not be usurped by private entities with special interests. There should be regulations governing when and how public water sources may be accessed by others. Certainly, the public has a reasonable expectation of water availability and accessibility, especially during a disaster event. With the increase in wildfire events and the resulting devastation, there is an increase in homeowners' and corporations' desire to enhance their own chances for the survival of their homes, buildings and resources. Some have turned to private firefighting entities to prioritize their interests rather than depend upon the local government fire departments which serve the public at large. Further, homeowners' insurance corporations, which seek to limit their liability during a disaster, seek an advantage in fighting the elements by providing private firefighters for the homes and buildings that they insure ("Los Angeles residents hire private firefighters to save their homes. Here's what they cost." - CBS News) (calmatters.org/housing/2025/01/private-firefighters-insurers) (npr.org/2025/01/18/nx-s1-5265301/california-wildfires-private-firefighters) Evidence shows that there is little knowledge of private firefighting entities in our county, although they may exist. With climate change affecting the severity and regularity of intense wildfires, it is largely anticipated that there will be a growing demand for private fire protection services. In fact, of those known to exist in California, many employ retired municipal firefighters. 100 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report (youtube.com/watch?v=LHgBz11455E) (calmatters.org/housing/2025/01/private- firefighters-insurers/) (npr.org/2025/01/18/nx-s1-5265301/california-wildfires- private-firefighters). The Office of Emergency Services in Sacramento has regulatory authority over private firefighters in California. Introduced out of Los Angeles County, there is proposed legislation, Assembly Bill 1075, to prevent private firefighting entities throughout the state from using public water hydrants (cbsnews.com/ sacramento/news/proposed-california-law-would-prohibit-private-firefighters- from-using-public-hydrants). The current expectation is that the government firefighting entity leads the disaster response and communications. The Incident Commander may deny access on scene to private firefighters due to safety or other concerns. The potential for conflict is increasing due to the competing desires for the resources to protect their own interest, for the public good or for the private company or wealthy homeowner who employs them. (calmatters.org/housing/2025/01/private-firefighters-insurers) (youtube.com/watch?v=LHgBz11455E) Napa Valley area vintners are particularly concerned with increased fire dangers. They are having difficulty getting fire insurance due to the liability and costs. Therefore, they are installing private water storage and hiring private firefighting forces (sfchronicle.com/food/wine/article/napa-vineyard-winery-fire- 20319743.php). One statewide concern is the decrease in federal funding for fire mitigation efforts, and the belief is that statewide there will be a resultant increase in private firefighting companies. San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 101 The private fire protection services industry is increasing, yet there is slight to no acknowledgment by San Bernardino County, geographically the largest in the country, that these entities even exist. The potential for others to access water sources and use public hydrants, if not regulated, is setting the stage for conflict over access and costs. The pending legislation, if passed, will prohibit water access that the private sector now has, which is likely to be a source of contention. There are no guidelines establishing an amenable working relationship. There is potential for significant issues if private firefighters are denied access and claim they were prohibited by an Incident Commander. Lithium Batteries Concerns Throughout this investigation the CGJ has learned that for the SBCFPD to maintain its state of preparedness, it can and will face a variety of fires. It takes three elements: fuel, heat and oxygen to cause a fire to ignite. This is called the fire triangle (sc.edu/ehs/training/Fire/01 triangle). FUEL Photo 15: Fire Triangle (blazequel.com) Once a fire starts it falls into one of the five classes listed below. 102 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report FIRE EXTINGUISHER SYMBOLS, CLASSIFICATIONS & AGENTS CLASS A fires involve ABC Dry Chemical (Multipurpose) common combustibles such Halotron Water as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, Foam trash and plastics. ABC Dry Chemical (Multipurpose) CLASS B fires involve BC Dry Chemical (Regular) flammable liquids, solvents, oil, Purple K gasoline, paints, lacquers and Carbon Dioxide other oil-based products. Halotron Foam CLASS C fires involve energized electrical ABC Dry Chemical (Multipurpose) equipment such as wiring, BC Dry Chemical (Regular) controls, motors, machinery or Purple K appliances. Carbon Dioxide Halotron CLASS D fires involve combustible metals such as magnesium, lithium Dry Powder and titanium. CLASS K fires involve combustible cooking Wet Chemical media such as oils and grease commonly found in commercial kitchens. Chart 5: Fire Classes (fireextinguisherdepot.com) With growing advancements in technology, we are now faced with one of the most challenging elements to deal with Lithium-ion fires, which is a Class D fire. The element Lithium is found in the Lithium-ion Battery (LiB), which is rechargeable. These types of batteries are used in large numbers with a wide range of uses, such as our cell phones, computers, electric scooters and E-bikes. They also help supply solar backup power to our homes, businesses, and even to a city's power grid. One of the more popular uses of LiBs is electric vehicles (EV). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report 103 Percentage of Total US EV Registrations Arizona: 3.4% Colorado: 3.5% Georgia: 3.5% Illinois: 3.8% California: New York: 48.3% 5.0% New Jersey: 5.2% Washington: 5.8% Texas: 8.8% Florida: 9.8% Chart 6: DOE E-vehicles registrations (https://www.recurrentauto.com/research/states-leading-the-ev-revolution) The US Department of Energy's September 2024 inquiry into Electric Vehicle (EV) registration. It shows that California has an estimated 48.3% of EV cars on the road, which breaks down to an estimated 1,256,646 vehicles. To bring this data closer to home, SBC is fifth in light duty EV sales behind the other counties (Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside). However, the county experienced the fastest rate of growth, from 8% of sales in 2021 to 19% of sales in 2024, which equates to 136% growth in four years. SBC is second behind Los Angeles County in total non-residential system output capacity. Non-residential solar installations include the sectors of commercial, educational, industrial, military, non-profit, other government and unknown. In terms of residential solar generation capacity, San Bernardino County's 104 | San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report total solar output of 35.0 kilowatts per 100 residents, which is behind San Diego (57.1) and Riverside (46.2) counties, but ahead of Orange (24.3) and Los Angeles (10.1) counties. (https://indicators.sbcounty.gov/environment/green-innovation/) The CGJ found that along with the positive advantages these power supplies give us, there is also a serious negative side. The fire they produce is a situation which has proved very difficult to extinguish due to the chemical makeup of the Lithium element itself. This was very apparent to some in SBC on Friday July 26, 2024, at 5:57 am, when an overturned semi-truck transporting lithium batteries caught fire causing the shutdown of Interstate 15 (I-15) in both directions. In a Caltrans news release on July 28, 2024, about 80 motorists were stranded for hours, causing the authorities to send in essential supplies and medical aid, including 100 gallons of diesel and 60 gallons of gasoline to stranded motorists. The I-15 freeway was finally reopened at 3:00 am Sunday July 28, 2024 (dot.ca.gov/ news-releases/news-release-2024-027). Fire usually requires heat, oxygen, and fuel. Unfortunately, when a LiB catches fire, the self-sustaining chain reaction generates excessive heat. The characteristic of a LiB fire becomes a major concern when it causes a "thermal runaway", which is a rapid, uncontrolled increase in temperature and energy. This often leads to ignition and possible explosion because as it burns (estimated range of 1,472°F to 2,192°F) it creates its own renewing heat source as well as producing its own oxygen source, making it very difficult to break the triangle of the fire (gasmet.com/blog). San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 105 Due to this characteristic, there is no simple method to extinguish this type of fire. The CGJ has found that the standard operation procedure to fight these types of fires is the use of a very large amount of water. In addition to the use of water, the possible use of a large specially designed heavy duty fire blanket which covers the E-vehicle is to try to limit the amount of oxygen, and to manage the smoke and toxic gases that emanate from the batteries (gasmet.com/blog). One popular electric vehicle's maintenance manual state that it could take from 3,000 to 8,000 gallons of water to extinguish and cool the battery which could take up to 24 hours. In an April 2021 article on the Popular Science.com website, it was reported in Houston, Texas, that one EV fire took up to four hours and nearly 30,000 gallons of water to extinguish (popsci.com/story/technology/electric-vehicle-battery-tesla- fire). There are new possibilities being developed, such as specialized extinguishing agents, innovative fire-retardant materials and a high-pressure water delivery system (fireapparatusmagazine.com/fire-technology-innovation). The CGJ acknowledges that the lithium-ion battery hazards are not only a county issue, or state, or even a federal one. This is a global concern, and it will be resolved through continual research and innovative thinking. COMMENDATION The San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury commends the Board of Supervisors. During this investigation the CGJ found the board has continually supported the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District in its ongoing efforts 106 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report to protect the county. This support has been crucial and has led to some new and promising technological advances. CONCLUSION San Bernardino County is a tinderbox. Its mountains, deserts, scrublands, urban and suburban neighborhoods render it particularly susceptible to wildfires and structure blazes. FEMA's Fire Risk Analysis rates San Bernardino County as the third most hazardous county in the country. The rating is not unusual, or unexpected. FEMA rates many California counties as high-fire risks; several are in the top ten. FEMA isn't assigning blame, though; its ratings merely acknowledge that California's locations and climates, Southern California especially and San Bernardino in particular, contribute to elevated fire risks. Although San Bernardino County rates high in risk, it also rates high in resilience: it recovers from disasters, learns from them and journeys to the future with confidence in its abilities to provide effective, efficient and timely responses to fire-related crises, and thus to protect its people, property and the environment. San Bernardino County also has quality and dedicated personnel, an innovative technological approach to firefighting and a Board of Supervisors that supports the county's Fire Protection District. San Bernardino is prepared to respond to events and to confront and overcome the risks. They Are Ready! San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 107 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Findings:

the progress, 3) the progress of the outcome or resolution complaint, leaving of the complaint and 4) residents with the an explanation of why it may be taking longer, thought that if applicable. nothing is being done. 06/01/26 San F3: R3: Bernardino The GJ recommends The City of San City Council Bernardino has no that ALL complaints consistent system from speakers at City for ensuring that Council meetings are every speaker at logged into the city's the city council one central database meetings is and assigned a tracking number for further contacted, with the complaint logged reference. into the centralized log, causing frustration among residents and the appearance that the city does not follow through on speakers' concerns. 06/01/26 San F4: R4: Bernardino The GJ recommends Many complaints City Council that all staff enter are reported 42 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report directly to a complaints directly into the CRMS. variety of individuals and may not be logged into CRMS leading to frustration among complainants. 06/01/26 San F5: R5: Bernardino The CRMS data is The GJ recommends City Council not available on that the city council direct the Call Center the city website, nor reported to the to publish the CRMS city council and monthly reports online and report it to the city the public at council quarterly at its meetings, causing a lack of meetings. transparency and frustration among some residents. 06/01/26 San F6: R6: Bernardino The GJ recommends As of the writing City Council of this report, the that the city council City of San authorize and Bernardino has implement a separate study to see if more not completed a study to determine employees are needed if the Call Center to work at the Call has an adequate Center. number of employees to consistently handle and process all the San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 43 complaints that are lodged which can cause uncertainty among some residents. 06/01/26 San F7: R7: Bernardino The GJ has found The GJ recommends City Council that a formal written that the city does not have a formal procedure manual be written policy produced to ensure that and/or procedure there is consistency manual for across departments for the handling of all handling complaints, complaints. causing inconsistency in the handling of residents' issues. BIBLIOGRAPHY Census.gov City of San Bernardino website Google.com Labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov National Civic League American City Award Past Winners 44 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report San Bernardino Sun, April 8, 2021 "San-bernardino-sets-date-to-begin-clearing- oxbow-site-of-broken-concrete"

San Bernardino County is a tinderbox. Its mountains, deserts, scrublands, urban and suburban neighborhoods render it particularly susceptible to wildfires and structure blazes. FEMA's Fire Risk Analysis rates San Bernardino County as the third most hazardous county in the country. The rating is not unusual, or unexpected. FEMA rates many California counties as high-fire risks; several are in the top ten. FEMA isn't assigning blame, though; its ratings merely acknowledge that California's locations and climates, Southern California especially and San Bernardino in particular, contribute to elevated fire risks. Although San Bernardino County rates high in risk, it also rates high in resilience: it recovers from disasters, learns from them and journeys to the future with confidence in its abilities to provide effective, efficient and timely responses to fire-related crises, and thus to protect its people, property and the environment. San Bernardino County also has quality and dedicated personnel, an innovative technological approach to firefighting and a Board of Supervisors that supports the county's Fire Protection District. San Bernardino is prepared to respond to events and to confront and overcome the risks. They Are Ready! San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 107 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Findings: Recommendations: Implementation Required Date: Responses: 07/01/26 SBC Board of F-1: R-1: Supervisors The SBCFPD's That the SBCFPD consolidates these three maintenance locations. personnel must go back and forth between the two maintenance yards and department's parts warehouse, which is in a third location. This causes delays in the repair of out-of- service fire apparatuses. SBC Board of 07/01/26 F-2: R-2: SBCFPD has Supervisors That the SBC Board of introduced drones Supervisors provide and robotics into its funding for resources firefighting arsenal and personnel so that but has insufficient the SBCFPD can fully resources and implement their DFR qualified personnel program. to take advantage of this new technology. As a result, the district cannot fully implement its Drone First Response program. 07/01/26 SBC Board of R-3: F-3: Supervisors SBCFPD trains That SBCFPD increase new recruits the incentives to retain through its fire firefighters. 108 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report academy to meet the qualifications necessary for firefighting certification. The district, though, does not provide competitive incentives to retain many of these recruits. As a result, after completing their academy training, many recruits leave SBCFPD to seek employment with other fire agencies, leaving the district with insufficient certified firefighters. 07/01/26 SBC Board of F-4: R-4: Supervisors That the SBC Board of OSHA requires compliance with its Supervisors increase the "2-in/2-out" rule of number of firefighters four firefighters for per engine available to SBCFPD. each deployed fire engine, but SBCFPD does not comply, instead deploying only three per engine. As a result, this lack of a fourth (and required) firefighter creates delay when that fourth is needed and reduces San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 109 the district's capacity to fight fires and rescue victims. 07/01/26 SBC Board of F-5: R-5: Supervisors There is no official That the SBC Board of routine Supervisors provide any documentation current agreements with SBCFPD and create a provided by independent water procedure to obtain districts to regular reports from all SBCFPD about the SBC water districts readiness of public providing SBCFPD with reports indicating water hydrants to deliver sufficient compliance with all water to combat guidelines and standards. fires. As a result, SBCFPD is unaware of the readiness status of these hydrants and is unsure of the district's capacity to hook up and extinguish the fires. 110 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report

In conclusion, the study of the Apple Valley Animal Shelter has been a very interesting and informative one. Apple Valley is a unique town, and its shelter has unique problems. The community is very rural and spread out. Parcels are large and animals are not used to leashes or kennels. There is a lot of wildlife in desert areas which spread disease. Many stray cats tend to have traits belonging to feral San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report | 157 cats. Dogs come to the shelter with diseases common to desert rural areas. The community is just beginning to learn the benefits of an active and robust TNVR program for cats. While the Grand Jury commends the people working diligently for the animals, and the citizens speaking out for the animals, it also recommends that the Apple Valley Town Council and the Apple Valley Animal Shelter seriously consider the recommendations at the end of this report. Working together for the animals is a road map to improvement. The ending verse of the song, Bless the Beasts and the Children (De Vorzon and Batkin) is: Bless the Beasts and the Children, Give them shelter from the storm, Keep them safe, keep them warm. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Implementation Required Recommendations:

The 2025 San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury thanks and appreciates the participants from the City of San Bernardino for coming in promptly for interviews and answering requests for documents. Officials, staff, and residents do love the city in which they live and/or work and are supportive of improvements. The GJ appreciates the many residents who speak at city council meetings. The grand jury commends the residents' willingness to comment about problems in the city and ask for needed changes.

The San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury commends the Board of Supervisors. During this investigation the CGJ found the board has continually supported the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District in its ongoing efforts 106 San Bernardino County Grand Jury Final Report to protect the county. This support has been crucial and has led to some new and promising technological advances.

The 2025 San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury appreciates the Town of Apple Valley, the shelter employees, the rescue group members (who speak out at meetings for the animals) and the San Bernardino County staff for complying quickly with requests for information. Interviewees were very helpful and informative, and showed passion for animals. Multiple shelters welcomed the GJ members while visiting. The GJ also appreciates employees of AVAS who truly and obviously have the best interests of the animals at heart. The GJ commends the employees of the Town of Apple Valley who work at the shelter. AVAS staff continue to work hard and care for the animals and have done so under less than ideal conditions.