C.D.F. Emergency Command Center Enjoying Upgrades

San Andreas, CA — The California Department of Forestry Emergency Command Center is enjoying its multi-million dollar upgrades.

Battalion Chief Chris Jensen says the center acts as the central dispatch for all 911 fire calls in Tuolumne and Calaveras Counties. This includes all calls that involve local, non-C.D.F fire districts and departments.

The E.C.C. is currently utilizing a $26 million Alteras Cad dispatching computer system. In addition the 2004-2005 upgrade included a new 911 system and computerized radio equipment. All the upgrades are designated for faster response times and more efficient use of personnel and resources.

In the Tuolumne-Calaveras C.D.F. Unit, there are 21 engines, two dozers and 10 fire crews along with the Columbia Air Attack Base which has an attack ship, two air tankers and one helicopter.

It is C.D.F. policy that all dispatchers are company officer personnel … no civilians serve as dispatchers during the 24/7 operation.

Written by Bill Johnson