Napa, CA – The Napa Fire Department plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of the Napa Valley community. Known for its unique mix of residential, commercial, and tourist areas, the department serves a diverse 18.5-square-mile region, which also includes major highways and navigable waterways. Through a recent Ride-Along series, Patch and T-Mobile teamed up to shed light on the everyday work of first responders, and to highlight the dedication of those who risk their lives to protect others.
In a candid interview with Battalion Chief Ty Becerra, Patch was able to gain valuable insights into what life is like for Napa’s firefighters, the challenges they face, and the impact they have on the community they serve.
A Typical Day at the Napa Fire Department
For firefighters in Napa, no two days are exactly the same. Chief Becerra explained that each shift begins with a thorough check of the apparatus and gear to ensure that everything is in working order. Firefighters then attend to other daily tasks, including shopping for supplies and engaging in physical training from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Afternoon hours are typically dedicated to training exercises, which span across various disciplines to maintain readiness for any situation.
Although the schedule may seem structured, emergency calls can come at any time, requiring flexibility and quick adaptation. According to Chief Becerra, the shift structure is set up as a 48/96 schedule—48 hours of work followed by 96 hours off, allowing personnel ample downtime to rest and recharge for the next shift.
The Call to Serve: A Family Tradition
For Chief Becerra, the decision to join the fire service was inspired by his sister, who also became a firefighter after high school. “We currently hold the same rank in our respective agencies,” he shared, noting that his sister’s career path sparked his own interest in pursuing firefighting.
This sense of family pride and mutual support runs deep in the Napa Fire Department, where teamwork is vital. “The bond between firefighters is strong,” Chief Becerra said, emphasizing the importance of working together to face the unpredictable challenges that come with the job.
Community Support: The Heart of Napa Firefighters’ Work
One of the aspects Chief Becerra enjoys most about his role is the strong support the Napa community shows toward their first responders. “The community really supports our efforts here,” he explained. This mutual respect between the fire department and local residents creates a positive and cooperative environment, which is crucial in moments of crisis.
In particular, Chief Becerra recalled his experience during the 2014 Napa Earthquake. As one of the most significant natural disasters to hit the region in recent years, the earthquake, measuring a magnitude of 6.0, caused extensive damage throughout the city. For more than 12 hours, Napa firefighters responded to nonstop emergency calls, a challenge that tested the department’s response system and the resilience of its personnel.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Firefighters
After spending 23 years in the fire service, Chief Becerra has seen the evolution of the profession, and he encourages others who are considering a career in firefighting to pursue it wholeheartedly. “It is a great career, and it has been very rewarding for me,” he said. The opportunity to be part of a team that makes a tangible difference in the community is what draws many individuals to the profession, and Chief Becerra’s advice remains simple: “Do it!”
Opportunities to Get Involved
For those interested in joining the fire service or learning more about the work Napa firefighters do, the Napa Fire Department offers several ways to get involved. Career opportunities are available for prospective applicants, and the department provides station tours, giving the public a firsthand look at how first responders work in action. Additionally, fire education content is accessible online, helping the Napa Valley community stay informed and prepared in emergency situations.
The Napa Fire Department continues to stand as a pillar of safety and support for the community it serves, and the dedication of Chief Becerra and his team serves as a reminder of the tireless work of first responders everywhere.
For more information on how to get involved or to learn more about the Napa Fire Department’s services, visit their official website.