At Monday’s City Council meeting, the department received a city proclamation honoring them for their efforts to promote community safety during fire prevention week. State fire officials, council members, and fire board members gathered in council chambers to thank firefighters for their hard work and eat cake with firefighters.

Mike Chrisman, Secretary of the California Resources Agency read a statement from Gov. Schwarzenegger’s office praising the district.

“Whether it’s a fire, car accident or other emergency, firefighers are often the first on the scene, and their actions often save lives,” he said.

As he was reading the statement a radio crackled, and firefighters shared a familiar look in recognition of the tell-tall beeping sound advising them of an emergency call.

Three firefighters grinned and walked out of the room to respond to a medical aid call. They didn’t seem to mind missing out on the cake.

Jason Smith — staff writer

Staff photo by Jason Smith
City council member Julie Hackbarth-McIntyre reads a proclamation in honor of the Barstow Fire Protection District’s efforts during National Fire Prevention Week. Four members of the fire department left midway through the ceremony to respond to a medical emergency.