Berkeley Fire Department

National EMS Week is here (May 17–23)
2026 Theme: Improving Outcomes, Together

EMS professionals play a critical role in community health, bringing clinical expertise, focus, and coordination to every call. Each response reflects a broader system working together, including dispatch, fire, law enforcement, and healthcare partners, all aligned to support the best possible patient outcomes.

This week, we recognize the dedication, teamwork, and professionalism required to do this work every day. Thank you to all EMS professionals for your continued commitment to serving the community and improving outcomes.

Today, we say thank you.

On International Firefighters’ Day, we honor the dedication of firefighters here in Berkeley and around the world. We also remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Saturday, May 2 is Wildfire Community Preparedness Day.

This national campaign, led by the National Fire Protection Association, is a reminder that wildfire preparedness starts at home, but it does not stop there.

Think of May 2 as your starting point, not the finish line. It is a chance to get involved, make a plan, and take the first step.

In Berkeley, we are all in this together. Each home that reduces wildfire risk helps protect the entire community.

✔ Start at home with small, practical steps, such as removing yard debris and replacing mulch with rocks
✔ Use the Berkeley Fire Self-Inspection Checklist to identify steps needed to achieve a FireSafe property
✔ Visit BerkeleyFireSafe.org to learn more and schedule your defensible space inspection
✔ Check in with your local FireWise or neighborhood group
✔ Assist a neighbor who may need support
✔ Join a cleanup or volunteer effort if you can

👉 Start here: bit.ly/self-inspection_checklist

Want to take it a step further?
Join an upcoming City of Berkeley preparedness training:
Sign up: https://berkeleyca.gov/safety-health/disaster-preparedness/trainings

Want to spend your summer doing something that matters?

The Berkeley Fire Department is now recruiting for the 2026 Wildland Urban Interface Division Defensible Space Inspector Internship.

Train to be a defensible space inspector, learn about wildfire mitigation, and train with firefighters.

💰 $19.18/hour
📅 Applications open March 1–31
👤 Ages 18–25

Tag someone who should apply.

For all the details and to apply: berkeleyfire.com/internship