News-Ladder
M A Y 2 0 2 6
As we move into the warmer months, our focus sharpens on wildfire preparedness and risk reduction across American Canyon. Weed abatement notices have been distributed, and we want to remind our community that compliance is enforceable beginning June 1. These mitigation efforts are not just seasonal tasks—they are critical actions that directly reduce the risk of wildfire spread and protect lives, homes, and our shared environment.
You may have noticed some of our hardest-working partners already out in the field. Through an ongoing collaboration with the City of American Canyon, Napa County, and CAL Fire, targeted grazing continues to play an important role in reducing fire fuels throughout the district. Simply put, the goats have been doing their part one bite at a time. This sustainable approach to vegetation management has proven to be both effective and environmentally responsible, and we are proud to support and expand these efforts.
May is recognized as Wildfire Awareness Month, and here in American Canyon, that means taking personal and collective responsibility for preparedness. We encourage every household to take a few simple but essential steps:
Build or update a go-bag with critical supplies and documents
Ensure fire extinguishers are accessible and fully charged
Develop and practice a family evacuation plan, including multiple routes
Maintain defensible space, especially within the first 0–5 feet around your home
Preparedness is not a one-time effort—it is an ongoing commitment that strengthens our resilience as a community.
This month, we also pause to reflect on a profound loss. American Canyon recently said goodbye to a truly foundational figure, Fran Lemos. Often referred to as the “mother of American Canyon,” Fran’s influence, dedication, and belief in this community helped shape what we know today. While words fall short in capturing the depth of this loss, I encourage you to turn to page 6 for a tribute honoring her legacy and lasting impact.
As always, thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to keeping American Canyon safe.
CliffCampbell
Acting Fire Chief
American Canyon Fire Protection District
MONTHLY TRAINING HOURS
441
YEAR TO DATE TRAINING HOURS
2,428
Probationary Firefighter Modules
Emergency Vehicle Operatins
USAR: Confined Space
Advanced Airway Training
Honoring a LEGEND
Tuesday evening at the American Canyon Fire Protection District Board meeting, the American Canyon community came together to honor the life and legacy of Fran Lemos a woman whose impact is woven into the very foundation of our city.
Often known as the “Mother of American Canyon,” Fran believed deeply in the strength, potential, and spirit of this community. Her service as a member of the American Canyon Fire Protection District Board reflected that commitment, as she remained a steady and supportive presence at meetings, always championing our mission and the people behind it.
Fran’s passion for youth left a lasting mark. In 1992, she supported the purchase of an educational fire engine to inspire and educate the next generation. Decades later, that very engine was rediscovered and thoughtfully renamed “Franny the Fire Engine” in her honor a tribute that continues her legacy of connection, learning, and community pride. Her influence cannot be measured, only felt—in the lives she touched, the programs she supported, and the enduring sense of community she helped build.
We extend our deepest gratitude for her service and our heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved her Fran’s legacy will continue to move forward just like “Franny” carrying her spirit with every interaction, every lesson, and every young life inspired.
ACCERT, American Canyon Community Response Team, is a program that educates volunteers about disaster preparedness for the hazards that may occur where they live.
ACCERT would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Fran Lemos and the residents of American Canyon Fran was a strong supporter of ACCERT and will be greatly missed.
ACCERT will be providing traffic and pedestrian management services for the Town of Yountville’s annual Art, Sip & Stroll event on May 16.
We are also pleased to share that ACCERT will be assisting the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce this year with the “Meet Me In The Streets” event.
For those interested in becoming an ACCERT team member, the first step is to complete the Basic CERT Training Course. The upcoming class is scheduled for May 9, 16, and 17. To register or learn more, please visit https://www.napacounty.gov/362/Community-Emergency-Response-TeamCERT
Next General Membership Meeting
Monday, May 11th @ 6:30 pm
225 James Rd, Station 211
To learn more about the 'Basic CERT Class' scan the QR Code
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American Canyon Fire Protection District is pleased to participate in the Free Senior Resource Fair hosted by the American Canyon Soroptimist. Join us on Wednesday, May 20 from 10 am to 1 pm at the American Canyon Community Church to gain valuable insight for Senior resources. th,
