By SDCN Staff
Escondido, CA–The Escondido Fire Department has announced the creation of a new Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Division, an initiative to address emergencies before they occur and enhance community resilience.
The new division will bring together the city’s Fire Prevention and Emergency Management programs under one umbrella. Officials say the move reflects a growing need to address a wide range of risks beyond traditional fire prevention.
“Today’s public safety challenges are more complex than ever,” Fire Chief John Tenger said in a statement. “Our community faces risks from structure fires, wildfires, hazardous materials, battery-related fires, and natural disasters. The CRR Division allows us to take a proactive, coordinated approach to prevention, education, and preparedness.”
The division’s responsibilities will include expanding inspections and code compliance, providing community safety programs, and leading public education on topics such as wildfire safety, home fire prevention, and disaster preparedness. It also aims to strengthen partnerships with schools, businesses, and community organizations to reduce risks across Escondido.
By combining prevention efforts with education and emergency planning, officials say the CRR Division marks a major step toward enhancing safety for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.