Welcome to Spokane County Fire District 8
Spokane County Fire District 8 provides a full range of services that include fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention, education and investigation, and associated support and maintenance services to our 23,917 citizens in a 110 square mile area in south Spokane County.
SCFD8 members responded to 4,186 calls for service in 2021 from the District's four fire stations located in the Moran, Valleyford, Ponderosa, and Saltese areas. Each station is staffed twenty-four hours a day with a combination of career, part-time, and volunteer personnel.
Spokane County Fire District 8 operates under the State of Washington laws and codes governing fire departments by direction of a three-person Board of Fire Commissioners: Andy Rorie; Lee Boling, and Greg Hesse.
Fire Danger Burn Restrictions are in Place
Effective July 22nd and until further notice, outdoor and open burning, and recreational fires in Spokane County are restricted.
All recreational outdoor fire without a chimney, such as a backyard fire pit or campfire using chopped firewood or charcoal, is not allowed.
Manufactured portable outdoor devices such as chimineas, barbeques, and patio warmers that are used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions are allowed. Designated campfires in parks and campgrounds may be allowed as approved and determined by agencies with jurisdiction.
For a list of what type of devices are allowed and what types are restricted read this Notice from Spokane County.
DNR Burn Restrictions
Effective July 1, 2022, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has directed that all debris burning on DNR protected land is prohibited. This includes rule and permited burns. Campfires are allowed in approved, designated campgrounds only.
For the most current information on burning in your area, visit www.dnr.wa.gov/burn-restrictions.
Those times when burn restrictions are not in place, the type of natural vegetation you wish to burn and where you live determines whether or not you can burn and what rules apply. The only material that may be burned in Washington state is natural vegetation, and only under specific program requirements. Three types of outdoor burning are allowed: (1) residental yard and garden debris, (2) silvicultural (forest) debris, and (3) recreational fires. SCFD8, together with our partners at Spokane Regional Clear Air Agency, and Washington Department of Natural Resource, have created this informative Can I Burn video to help you determine if and what you may burn.
Fall Prevention Tips
Spokane County Fire District 8 responds to numerous fall emergencies every year. Age, physical fitness, health, and medications can all contribute to an increased risk for falls. Being proactive and making a plan is key to successfully reducing a fall. You can significantly reduce your risk of a fall by staying fit, making sure your home environment is hazard free, and asking your physician to review your medications on a regular basis.
Maintain clear pathways in your home: Maintaining clear walkways in your home is critical in preventing trip hazards. Debris, rugs, boxes, and clutter can all contribute to hazardous areas.
Speak with your doctor: Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss developing a fall prevention plan. Be prepared to discuss your fall concerns and how your medical illnesses, medications, and mobility limitations could contribute to an increase in falls. Understanding the side effects of medications can help decrease the potential for falls. Additionally, your doctor may want to change, alter or remove any medications contributing to an increase in falls.
Stay active after speaking with your doctor: Set goals to increase or maintain your physical fitness. Staying active, increasing your strength, and increasing your mobility can significantly reduce your chances of falling. Strength, balance, and mobility can lower your chances of injury if a fall does occur. If you have concerns or feel like you need assistance, speak with your doctor about physical therapy. Install grab bars and handrail.
Install grab bars and handrails: Set yourself up for success by installing grab bars and handrails in areas where falls are frequent. Having handrails on both sides of stairs and ramps will assist with changes in elevation or slopes. Grab bars near the toilet or bed can assist with standing from the sitting position. Grab bars are also helpful in and around showers to help with balance and stability.
Utilize assistive equipment: Walkers or canes can help increase your stability inside and outside the home. These tools can significantly reduce your chance of falling when your body is recovering from injury or illness.
For additional guidance and resources, please contact Spokane Regional Health District at www.srhd.org or at 509-324-1500.
