American Canyon Fire Protection District 2025 Annual Report

A YEAR OF SERVICE

A MESSAGE FROM CHIEF BELYEA

As Fire Chief, I am pleased to present the American Canyon Fire Protection District’s 2025 Annual Report. This year reflects our continued focus on strengthening readiness and building resilience in response to an evolving emergency service environment.

In 2025, the District responded to a total of 2,250 incidents, including 2,065 incidents within the District and 185 mutual aid responses in support of regional partners. This represents a 3% increase over the prior year and a 39% increase over the past decade, reinforcing the growing demand placed on the District’s resources and personnel.

Emergency medical services continued to comprise the majority of our responses. Rescue and EMS incidents accounted for 1,493 calls, reflecting the essential role our firefighters play as first responders to medical emergencies. In addition, the District responded to a wide range of incidents, including fires, hazardous conditions, service calls, and special incidents, requiring a flexible and well-prepared response capability.

As call volume and complexity increase, the District remains committed to ensuring operational readiness. During the year, we added two new fire engines to our fleet, improving reliability, response capability, and firefighter safety. The District also completed its first full year of a private–government agreement with REACH Air Medical Services, expanding access to advanced medical transport through Copter 11.

During 2025, Copter 11 supported the District with 52 scene responses and 289 interfacility transports, with 258 scene requests and 258 interfacility transport requests recorded during the first full year of the strategic partnership.

Wildfire preparedness continued to be a priority in 2025. Fire Hazard Severity Zones were formally established to better identify areas of elevated risk and guide prevention, planning, and mitigation efforts. The Board of Directors was also introduced to Napa Firewise, initiating a collaborative effort toward the development of a Community Wildfire Protection Plan that will support long-term wildfire resilience.

In addition to local and regional efforts, the Fire Chief played a leadership role at the state level through involvement with the Fire Districts Association of California (FDAC). In February 2025, FDAC released a white paper titled Fighting Fire with Funding: The Urgent Need for Adequate Fire Service Resources in California, which was formally presented to the Governor and the Legislature. The paper outlines the funding challenges facing fire protection districts statewide and emphasizes the need for collaborative, long-term solutions to support fire service readiness.

These efforts would not be possible without the dedication and professionalism of our firefighters, staff, volunteers, and community partners. Their commitment to service, training, and collaboration ensures that the District remains prepared to meet the needs of the community today and into the future.

As we look ahead, the District will continue to rely on data-driven decision-making, regional partnerships, and strategic investments to maintain a high level of service while adapting to increasing demands. I am confident that the actions taken in 2025 have positioned the District well for the challenges ahead.

Sincerely,

Chief Belyea

Strengthening Readiness BUILDING RESILIENCE

2025 YEAR AT A GLANCE

STRENGHTENING EMERGENCY RESPONSE FRONTLINE READINESS ADVANCING WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS LEADERSHIP AND COLLABORATION

Contributing

STRENGTHENING READINESS AND BUILDING RESILENCE

A snapshot of progress, partnerships, and preparednessinvestigations, and fire and life safety education.

Presented

Strengthening Readiness BUILDING RESILIENCE

OUR CULTURE

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to provide reliable and progressive emergency response while seeking opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of the people and the community we serve.

VISION STATEMENT

Our 2020 vision is to be an exceptional organization delivering high quality services utilizing sustainable best practices. We will continuously improve and grow with the community as a positive, healthy and cohesive team.

OUR LEADERSHIP

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are pleased to present the American Canyon Fire Protection District’s 2025 Annual Report. This report reflects a year of thoughtful decision-making, strategic investment, and continued commitment to the safety and well-being of the community we serve.

Throughout 2025, the Board worked closely with the Fire Chief and District staff to provide policy direction, fiscal oversight, and long-term governance. As emergency response demands continue to grow in both volume and complexity, the Board remains focused on ensuring that the District is equipped, prepared, and positioned to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Key initiatives highlighted in this report including investments in new fire apparatus, the first full year of the air medical services agreement, establishment of Fire Hazard Severity Zones, and advancement of wildfire preparedness efforts all reflect the Board’s responsibility to balance operational readiness with prudent financial stewardship. These actions were taken with careful consideration of risk, sustainability, and long-term community resilience.

The Board is proud of the professionalism, dedication, and adaptability demonstrated by the District’s firefighters, staff, and community partners. Their commitment to service is evident not only in emergency response, but also in training, prevention, outreach, and regional collaboration.

As we look ahead, the Board remains committed to transparent governance, data-informed decision-making, and continued investment in the people and resources that support the District’s mission. We appreciate the trust placed in us by the community and remain dedicated to serving with integrity, accountability, and foresight.

Respectfully,

Board of Directors

CANYON FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT

FIRE DISTRICT GOVERNING AUTHORITY

The American Canyon Fire Protection District was established on January 31, 1955, by the Napa County Board of Supervisors. On November 6, 1957, the State of California, Office of the Secretary of State, formally certified the Fire District’s existence pursuant to the provisions of the Local Fire District Law.

In 1992, following the incorporation of the City of American Canyon, the Fire District was preserved as a subsidiary special district of the City. As part of this structure, the elected City Council members serve as the ex-officio Board of Directors for the District.

The Board of Directors is responsible for adopting policies and programs that govern the District. The implementation of these policies and day-to-day operations is delegated to the Fire Chief, who serves as the District’s executive leader. To ensure accountability and operational efficiency, the Board establishes clear, specific, and measurable expectations for the Fire Chief’s performance.

Basis of Authority:

As the legislative governing body of the District, the Board of Directors holds the following key responsibilities:

• Develop, evaluate, and update District policies to ensure effective governance and operational efficiency.

• Appoint, evaluate, and, if necessary, dismiss the Fire Chief to maintain strong leadership.

• Oversee the District’s financial management, ensuring responsible fiscal stewardship.

• Adopt or amend ordinances, resolutions, and policies that support the District’s mission and strategic objectives.

Additionally, the Board is responsible for:

• Formulating and reviewing District policies to align with community needs and industry standards.

• Ensuring compliance with federal and state laws, as well as local regulations.

• Adopting the annual budget prior to October 1st each year to support the District’s financial planning and operational needs.

Through these responsibilities, the Board of Directors ensures that the American Canyon Fire Protection District remains a progressive, well-managed, and communityfocused organization dedicated to public safety.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the purpose of the strategic partnership with REACH Air Medical Services?

The District’s agreement with REACH Air Medical Services represents a strategic partnership designed to enhance emergency medical response capabilities. Through this partnership, the District collaborates with Copter 11 to ensure access to advanced air medical transport when clinically appropriate, particularly in situations where ground transport may be limited by distance, traffic, or the severity of the incident.

How do Fire Hazard Severity Zones affect residents and development?

Fire Hazard Severity Zones identify areas with elevated wildfire risk based on factors such as vegetation, terrain, and weather conditions. These zones help inform fire prevention strategies, building and planning standards, and community awareness efforts. While the designation does not change property ownership, it supports responsible development and risk-reduction measures designed to improve safety for residents and first responders.

As wildfire risk continues to evolve, the District is working collaboratively with community partners to align planning and mitigation efforts with these identified risk areas.

How does Copter 11 collaborate with local fire and EMS response?

Copter 11 collaborates with the District as a supporting resource within the existing emergency response system. Air medical services are requested through established dispatch and incident command protocols. Local fire and EMS personnel remain in command of the incident and coordinate patient care, landing zone operations, and patient transfer as part of a coordinated response.

What can residents do to reduce wildfire risk in their community?

Residents play an important role in reducing wildfire risk. Simple, proactive steps can help improve safety for homes, neighborhoods, and first responders, including:

• Maintaining defensible space by reducing vegetation and combustible materials around structures

• Following local building and fire safety requirements, particularly in areas identified as higher wildfire risk

• Staying informed about wildfire preparedness efforts and community resources

• Participating in neighborhood and community-based wildfire prevention programs

• Preparing evacuation plans and emergency supply kits

The District encourages residents to stay engaged and informed as wildfire preparedness efforts continue to evolve in coordination with community and regional partners.

What is Napa Firewise and why is the District involved?

Napa Firewise is a countywide collaborative focused on reducing wildfire risk through education, planning, and community engagement. The District’s involvement supports a coordinated approach to wildfire preparedness that aligns local efforts with regional strategies. Participation in Napa Firewise allows the District to collaborate with neighboring agencies, community groups, and partners to strengthen wildfire resilience and preparedness across the region.

What does “Fighting Fire with Funding” mean?

Fighting Fire with Funding is a collaborative effort involving fire service organizations at the local, regional, and statewide levels. The District participates in these discussions through professional associations, including the Fire Districts Association of California, in collaboration with the California Fire Chiefs Association and the California Volunteer and Combination Chiefs Association.

This collaboration helps ensure that the perspectives and needs of local fire protection agencies are represented as funding challenges and service demands continue to evolve.

Why is funding important to wildfire preparedness and emergency response?

Wildfire mitigation, emergency response, and community risk reduction efforts often require investments beyond routine operating budgets. Strategic funding supports essential resources such as staffing, training, apparatus, planning, and prevention.

What is a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)?

A Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) is a strategic planning document that identifies wildfire risks and prioritizes actions to reduce those risks. CWPPs are developed through collaboration between fire agencies, local governments, and community stakeholders. They help guide wildfire mitigation efforts, support eligibility for state and federal funding, and inform long-term planning decisions.

The District is currently working with community partners to develop a CWPP that reflects local conditions, risk factors, and community input.

Does Fighting Fire with Funding change how the District is funded today?

No. Fighting Fire with Funding does not change the District’s current funding structure. It reflects ongoing collaboration, planning, and participation in broader discussions about long-term fire service funding needs. Any future funding changes would occur through separate legislative or budgetary processes.

ADMINISTRATION

BATTALION CHIEFS

A-SHIFT

OUR TEAM

OUR TEAM AMERICAN CANYON CERT

“Each milestone reflects the dedication, professionalism, and commitment our personnel bring to serving the American Canyon community. I am proud to recognize their achievements.”

—Chief Belyea

COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM

Prepared Neighbors. Stronger Community.

The American Canyon CERT (Community Emergency RThe American Canyon Community Emergency Response Team (ACCERT) is a trained, all-volunteer group that assists first responders during large-scale emergencies and disasters. CERT members are equipped to support incident operations through disaster assessment, basic medical care, search and rescue, evacuation support, traffic control, and coordination with animal response teams when needed. Their role strengthens overall community resilience and expands response capacity when emergencies exceed routine resources.

In 2025, ACCERT remained focused on recruitment, training, and regional partnership development. Members regularly trained alongside other Napa County CERT teams and Napa CART to ensure seamless coordination during multi-agency incidents. Participation in community events such as the Napa Valley ALS Ride, Walk & Roll and Yountville Sip & Stroll provided opportunities to refine communication and logistics skills while engaging prospective volunteers.

ACCERT also took part in scenario-based trainings throughout the year, including mass casualty and search and rescue exercises. In August, the team was activated to support Calistoga CERT during the Pickett Fire, staffing roadblocks and assisting Napa CART with large animal shelter operations.

Clinical Coordinator Todd Pelletier has been an integral part of the American Canyon Fire Protection District since 2017, bringing exceptional expertise and leadership to our EMS and Paramedic programs. Through his dedication to clinical standards, policy development, and quality assurance—particularly during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic—Todd has strengthened patient care and operational readiness across the District. His commitment to excellence continues to have a lasting impact on the health and safety of our community.

Through continued training, collaboration, and volunteer service, ACCERT remains a critical component of American Canyon’s emergency preparedness network.

Join ACCERT

Be part of the team that strengthens our community before disaster strikes.

The American Canyon Community Emergency Response Team (ACCERT) is made up entirely of dedicated volunteers who receive specialized training to assist during large-scale emergencies.

As an ACCERT member, you will learn:

• Disaster preparedness and response

• Basic medical operations

• Light search and rescue

• Fire suppression fundamentals

• Disaster organization and communication

• Evacuation and traffic control support

• Coordination with animal response teams

No prior experience is required — just a commitment to serve your community.

If you are interested in becoming part of American Canyon’s emergency preparedness network, visit americancanyoncert.org to learn more about upcoming training opportunities.

Strengthening Readiness BUILDING RESILIENCE

A FIRE-FOCUSED PATH FORWARD:

WILDFIRE RISK REDUCTION THROUGH PARTNERSHIP

A Fire-Focused Path Forward: Wildfire Risk Reduction Through Partnership

In American Canyon, protecting life, property, and the environment requires a coordinated, regional approach.

Over the past year, wildfire risk reduction remained a top priority for American Canyon Fire Protection District, achieved through strong partnerships with Napa County Fire, The Napa County Firewise Foundation, Napa Pasture Protein, and the City of American Canyon.

Together, these agencies advanced a comprehensive vegetation management strategy designed to reduce hazardous fuels, improve defensible space, and enhance community resilience against wildfire.

Innovative Vegetation Management

A key component of this collaborative program has been the use of targeted grazing. A locally managed flock of sheep grazed more than 1,000 acres to date — including 212 acres in 2025 alone — strategically reducing fine fuels and ladder fuels in open spaces, hillsides, and sensitive riparian corridors.

From a fire protection standpoint, this approach delivers measurable benefits:

Fuel Load Reduction: Grazing decreases combustible vegetation, lowering fire intensity and rate of spread potential.

Access to Challenging Terrain: Sheep safely operate on steep slopes and environmentally sensitive areas where mechanical equipment is unsafe, inefficient, or prohibited.

Environmental Stewardship: By thinning overgrowth without heavy machinery or chemical treatments, grazing preserves soil integrity and supports long-term ecological balance.

This method aligns directly with Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) objectives and regional fuel

mitigation goals, demonstrating how environmentally responsible practices can also strengthen operational readiness.

Strength Through Partnership

Wildfire preparedness is not achieved by a single agency. It is built through sustained collaboration, shared expertise, and coordinated execution. By working alongside our regional partners, the District continues to implement proactive, science-based strategies that reduce risk before fire season intensifies.

This collective effort reflects a shared commitment: safeguarding the American Canyon community through innovation, stewardship, and partnership.

EXPLORERS

The American Canyon Fire Protection District proudly operates a Fire Explorer Program designed to provide motivated individuals ages 14–21 with meaningful exposure to the fire service. The program delivers structured, hands-on training twice monthly, focusing on the core competencies required of professional firefighters. Explorers train in emergency medical assessments, vehicle extrication, ground ladder operations, forcible entry, hydrant operations, structural fire suppression, wildland firefighting techniques, public education outreach and professional development skills such as interview and résumé preparation.

Beyond drill nights, Explorers participate in ridealongs, gaining real-world insight into station life and emergency response operations. This immersive experience builds foundational knowledge, discipline, and leadership skills essential for success in the fire service.

In 2025, the program reached a significant milestone as American Canyon Fire Explorers attended the California Fire Exploring Academy for the first time in over a decade. Hosted by the North Las Vegas Fire Department, the intensive week-long academy provided advanced, high-caliber training — including

live structure fire evolutions — alongside Explorers from across California and Nevada. Participants also served in leadership roles throughout the academy, further developing accountability and command presence.

Interest in the program continues to grow, resulting in the most applications received since its relaunch in 2023 and the addition of five new Explorers in 2025.

As we move into 2026, the District remains committed to delivering high-level training that prepares our Explorers for careers in the fire service — whether here in American Canyon or in departments beyond our community.

“Cadet Araceli, a current American Canyon Fire Explorer and recent graduate of the Solano College Fire Academy, demonstrated a strong foundation in work ethic, technical skill, and commitment — qualities developed through his experience in the American Canyon Fire Protection District Explorer Program.”

COPTER 11

“Copter 11 elevates more than patients — they elevate our entire system. Through joint training and shared expertise, we are continuously raising the standard of care in American Canyon.”

— Chief Geoff Belyea

Copter 11 – 2025 Fast Facts

Interfacility Transports (IFTs)

• 289 completed transports

• 258 IFT requests

Emergency Scene Responses

• 52 completed scene calls

• 258 scene requests

Capabilities Include:

• Advanced neonatal and pediatric transport

• Critical care–level interventions in the field

• Highly trained flight nurses and paramedics

• Specialized aviation and critical care response teams

Copter 11: Advanced Care in Critical Moments

Through our partnership with REACH Air Medical Services’ Copter 11, the American Canyon community has access to hospital-level critical care when every second counts. Staffed by highly trained pilots, flight nurses, and flight paramedics, Copter 11 delivers advanced life-saving interventions directly at

emergency scenes and during complex interfacility transports.

From high-acuity trauma incidents to and life-threatening medical events, Copter 11 provides the highest level of care possible outside of a hospital setting. Their team is specially trained in advanced neonatal and pediatric transport, ensuring that even the most vulnerable patients receive expert, specialized attention during rapid transfer to definitive care.

In addition to emergency scene responses, Copter 11 conducts interfacility transports (IFTs), moving critically ill patients between hospitals when a higher level of specialty treatment is required.

This partnership also strengthens American Canyon Fire Protection District operations through joint landing

zone training and advanced medical education. These cross-training opportunities build seamless coordination, strengthen relationships between crews, and ultimately enhance patient outcomes for our community.

Together, Copter 11 and AmCanFire continue to elevate emergency medical service delivery — bringing advanced skill, rapid access, and lifesaving capability to American Canyon.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

The fire service is built on trust. Our community trusts that when they call for help — often on one of the most difficult days of their lives — we will respond with competence, professionalism, and compassion. That trust is not established in a single moment; it is built over time through meaningful connection, consistent presence, and unwavering commitment.

Community outreach is a vital extension of our mission. By engaging directly with residents, businesses, schools, and community partners, we strengthen relationships that form the foundation of effective emergency response. These efforts reinforce our commitment to continuous training and service, while also providing education that empowers our community to be safer and more prepared.

Through outreach, we demonstrate who we are long before an emergency occurs. We show our dedication to preparedness, our professionalism in action, and our compassion for those we serve. By building relationships today, we are helping create a safer, stronger American Canyon for tomorrow.

“AmCanFire consistently shows up for our kids with energy, positivity, and genuine care. They don’t just educate — they build relationships. Those early connections help our students see the Fire District as trusted partners in their community.”

— Mindy Stevens, Principal, Calvery Baptist Christian Academy

In 2025, the American Canyon Fire Protection District strengthened regional partnerships through a meaningful collaboration with the Vallejo Fire Department.

This year, the District hired Manuel Conde, an experienced paramedic who had not previously attended a traditional fire academy. Through a cooperative agreement with Vallejo Fire Department, Manuel was enrolled in and successfully completed the Vallejo Fire Academy from February through July.

Upon graduation, Manuel transitioned from Firefighter/ Paramedic Trainee to a sworn probationary Firefighter/ Paramedic with the District. His successful completion of the academy reflects both his dedication and the strength of our regional partnerships.

We are grateful for the continued collaboration with Vallejo Fire Department, which enhances training opportunities, builds regional readiness, and strengthens the fire service across our communities.

TRAINING HIGHLIGHTS

Why Training Matters

In the fire service, there is no such thing as a routine emergency. At any given moment, our personnel may be called to respond to a structure fire, cardiac arrest, hazardous materials incident, technical rescue, flood event, or complex multi-casualty scene. The diversity and unpredictability of these incidents demand a workforce that is highly trained, adaptable, and prepared to perform at the highest level — immediately.

In 2025, American Canyon Fire Protection District personnel completed over 8247 hours of training. This investment reflects our commitment to operational excellence and the safety of the community we serve.

Training spans far beyond fire suppression. Our firefighters continually refine core competencies such as fire attack, ventilation, ladder operations, and pump theory, ensuring precision and efficiency on the fireground. Advanced rescue disciplines — including auto extrication, confined space rescue, trench rescue, high-angle rope systems, and water rescue — prepare our crews for technically complex emergencies where specialized skills directly impact survival.

As technology evolves, so must we. Training in electrical vehicle emergencies, solar photovoltaic systems, and tablet-based incident command systems ensures we remain proficient in addressing modern hazards safely and effectively. Area familiarization through map testing strengthens response times and situational awareness throughout our jurisdiction.

Medical training remains a cornerstone of our readiness. In 2025, we hosted ACLS, PALS, and ITLS recertification courses, strengthening advanced cardiac, pediatric, and trauma care capabilities. Additional focused instruction — including airway management and trauma review provided during Continuous Quality Improvement sessions, as well as emergency childbirth training — ensures our paramedics and EMTs are prepared to deliver high-level care in critical moments.

Wildland preparedness through RT-130 refresher training, hazardous materials operations training, firefighter survival drills, SCBA proficiency, helicopter operations coordination, and incident command development further reinforce the breadth of knowledge required of today’s fire service professional.

This level of comprehensive training reflects the dedication, professionalism, and discipline of American Canyon Fire personnel. Their commitment to continuous improvement ensures that when the community calls for help, they respond with confidence, competence, and a depth of knowledge built through relentless preparation.

INCIDENTS

FIRE PREVENTION

The Fire Prevention Division is led by the Fire Chief, who serves as Fire Marshal, and is supported by Fire Company Inspectors and professional services provided through CSG Consultants.

Since contracting with CSG Consultants in 2019, the District has strengthened its fire prevention program through experienced CSFM and ICC-certified inspectors. The Fire Marshal oversees fire code enforcement, plan review, and community fire and life safety education — ensuring new and existing developments meet required safety standards and helping reduce risk throughout the community.

In collaboration with the City of American Canyon, the District also updated its plan submission and Permit Center process, improving efficiency, transparency, and customer service for residents, developers, and business owners.

2026 STRATEGIC FOCUS

STRENGTHENING WHAT WE HAVE BUILT. PREPARING FOR WHAT IS NEXT.

Advancing implementation and stakeholder coordination

Strengthening community education and shared responsibility

Coordinating preparedness efforts with regional and state partners

Ongoing training to

Our focus is not only managing today— but preparing for tomorrow