Port Orchard, Wash. – South Kitsap Fire and Rescue reports call volumes increased 10.7% in 2021 compared to the year before. For the first time in its history, the agency broke 12,000 calls in one year, making it the busiest fire district in Kitsap County.
Calls for 2022 also are off to a heavy start. Emergency calls in the first month of the year were 20% higher than January of 2021. Even with higher call volumes, Fire Chief Jeff Faucett says that the agency can respond, but still needs more emergency personnel.
SKFR also is celebrating its 75th year of service to the South Kitsap community. Celebrations are planned for later this summer when the weather is better.
“We are extremely grateful for our community. We can’t say it enough – thank you,” said Chief Faucett. “The South Kitsap community has invested in and built a high-quality emergency service response. Their personal and financial support means that we can save lives and property.”
In 2021, the agency responded to 12,005 emergency calls, or approximately 33 calls a day. Emergency medical service accounted for 68% of all emergency responses for SKFR. Fires accounted for 208 calls, or 1.73% of emergencies in 2021.
“Fires are devastating, and the most-costly emergency service we provide,” said Chief Faucett. “Fighting a fire takes more personnel, apparatus, and equipment than anything else we do. While fires are small percentage of our calls, we must be prepared for when they happen to prevent loss of life and property.”
SKFR responds to all emergencies and hazards. Most of the agency’s resources go to fire and EMS responses. The agency provides the highest level of EMS care called “Advanced Life Support.” It also responds to explosions, hazardous material spills, technical rescues, motor vehicle accidents, and natural disasters.
“Special calls” also are on the list, which means someone believes there is an emergency, so the fire district is dispatched.
“We’ve had pets stuck in trees, water leaks, people unable to get off the floor, residents locked out of their house or car, kids stuck in playground equipment, house water pipe breaks, you name it,” said Chief Faucett.