Dear SAFER friends and family, 

Regretfully, the September SAFER Monthly meeting is being cancelled due to competing demands placed upon us and the Fire Service in general. COVID 19 remains persistent and restrictions remain firmly in place throughout the region; and, many others are committed to Administrative Overhead assignments and Strike Team deployments battling the massive and devastating wildland fires locally and throughout California and Oregon. 

I did want to share a few personal comments; these are unprecedented times, a conglomerate of ongoing natural and man-made emergencies, politically dividing events, the pandemic crisis, potentially polarizing social standings and the 9/11 anniversary. Just one these issues causes a level of stress and pressure in your normal life. If you are in a leadership role these are trying times; but your duty is to lead and keep your people safe. We all look for and admire good examples of those that handle these challenges with the right finesse and appropriateness.  This is suicide awareness and prevention month. Sadly, current affairs are exemplifying the need to heighten your awareness of those under your command for stress and behavioral needs. Be the help someone needs, listen, support and reach out! 

Lastly and most personally, the Creek Fire struck very close to home. The community of Shaver Lake and the western Sierra back country was a place where I had a home and would vacation, this was where I would reset. I was spared any significant loss while others lost everything. I am deeply empathic of the impact and sense of loss a wildfire has on a community. If you are currently deployed or just got off the line, never ever under estimate the value you bring to a community in need. My deepest appreciation and gratitude to all of you who continue to save lives, protect property and defend our ravaged environment!

National Resources for Depression and Suicide:

·       National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential assistance to ANYONE in crisis. They can be reached 24-hours a day 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or dial 911

·       National Helpline provides free referrals to individuals and families experiencing mental health and substance abuse problems. They can be reached at 1-800-622-HELP (4357). 

Local Resource:

·       Department of Mental Health offers mental health referrals and crisis support for ALL LA County citizens. Please call the HELPLINE at 1-800-854-7771. Press 1 for referrals and crisis support. Press 2 for emotional support. Press 3 for Veterans.

Be Safe, 

Scott P. Quinn
Battalion Chief Risk Management Section Los Angeles City Fire Department