As the legislative season kicked into gear, California Professional Firefighters hosted Fire Ops 101—a hands-on event designed to immerse lawmakers and policymakers in the daily experiences of firefighters. Held right outside the State Capitol, Fire Ops 101 offered participants a rare opportunity to face the physical challenges, high-stakes scenarios, and split-second decisions that define the fire service.
On the morning of the event, 10th Street buzzed with activity as Fire Ops 101 took over the block. Legislators, constitutional officers, and legislative staff members checked in and were escorted to the outfitting trailer following a fit-test for those participating in live fire simulation. There, they were suited up in full turnout gear, including Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA), replicating the full weight and restriction firefighters experience in the field.
Once outfitted, participants cycled through a series of intensive scenarios: Aerial ladder climb, CPR administration, fire ground survival, search and rescue, door breach, hose drag, live fire simulation, and more. Each station was facilitated by professional firefighters who guided the participants through the techniques and stressors of real-world emergency response.
Among the legislators who stepped up to the challenge was Assembly Member Esmeralda Soria, who tackled the course with full enthusiasm. Her hands-on approach set the tone for the day, and she was soon followed by Assembly Members Joe Patterson, Stephanie Nguyen, Tasha Boerner, and others. Each brought their own perspective, but all walked away with a new understanding of the physical demands shouldered by the fire service.
This deeper insight is exactly what Fire Ops 101 aims to provide. When lawmakers understand the realities of the job, their decisions on legislation impacting firefighter health, safety, and retirement are better informed and more grounded in lived experience. That impact was felt during the first hearing on Assembly Bill 1383, CPF’s sponsored bill on retirement reform. “I had the opportunity to have a glimpse into what our fire corps do,” said Assembly Member Boerner, reflecting on her experience at Fire Ops 101. She voiced her support for the bill and shared how participating in the training helped shape her view. “I am 52, I am super fit... I can probably leg press more weight than most people in this room, and doing what they do at 52 is really hard... We cannot expect people to physically work themselves into the grave.” Her testimony underscored how firsthand experience can transform abstract policy into a personal and urgent call to action.
Behind the success of Fire Ops 101 were the dedicated firefighters from across the region who volunteered their time to make the event possible. CPF extends its gratitude to Sacramento City Fire Department, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, Cosumnes Fire Department, West Sacramento Fire Department, Folsom Fire Department, and Alameda County Fire Department for their partnership and professionalism. This collaboration was enabled by the Sacramento Area Firefighters, Local 522, and Alameda County Firefighters, Local 55, demonstrating the success that can come from strong labor-management partnerships and a united fire service.
Events like Fire Ops 101 are more than public engagement – they are a crucial step in building meaningful partnerships between decision-makers and those they serve. By stepping into the boots of a firefighter, legislators leave with more than sore muscles; they carry with them a deeper appreciation for the profession and a renewed commitment to supporting the brave individuals who run toward danger when others run away.