Memo from the Chief

As we close out the last quarter of the year, I want to take the opportunity to reflect on where we have been and where we are headed. 2025 was a great year for Grant County Fire District 3, and it was also a year of significant transition. Change, even when positive, takes effort, patience, and trust. I want to sincerely thank every member of this organization for the professionalism, flexibility, and commitment you demonstrated as we worked through that transition together.

Because of that collective effort, we now enter 2026 with momentum. We are moving forward full steam ahead, but with purpose. This year is about stabilizing our organization and creating a strong foundation for the changes we have made. That foundation is critical, not just for today, but for the long-term success of the District and the people we serve.

As we look ahead, 2026 will be a year focused on planning and preparation. We will be finishing important work that helps define our direction for the upcoming years. This includes ensuring our systems, expectations, and culture are aligned with our mission and values. Planning is not just an administrative function; it is a shared responsibility that impacts every role in this organization.

One of the most important lessons we continue to learn is the value of communication. We are one team, and our success depends on how well we communicate with one another. Open, honest, and respectful communication allows us to manage change effectively, solve problems early, and support one another through challenges. I encourage everyone to lean into communication, ask questions, and stay engaged as we move forward together.

During the last quarter, we spent time reinforcing our “Service First” values with our resident firefighters and staff. One theme came through loud and clear, integrity. Integrity means doing the right thing even when it is difficult or uncomfortable. It means holding ourselves accountable and supporting one another to uphold the standards we expect of this organization. Integrity is not just a value on paper; it is something we live every day in how we serve our coworkers and our community.

As always, I want to emphasize the importance of safety, for our members and for the public we serve. Please continue to watch out for one another, encourage your fellow firefighters, and take pride in the work you do. Every role within this organization matters, and each of you plays an important part in our shared success.

I am proud to serve alongside such a dedicated group of professionals. Thank you for your continued commitment to the District, to each other, and to the Quincy Valley community. I look forward to seeing everyone at the banquet, where we can come together to recognize the hard work, service, and teamwork that
make this organization strong.

Stay safe, take care of one another, and thank you for all that you do.

David Durfee
Fire Chief

 

Call Volume - Last Quarter

Call Volume - 2025

 

From the Desk of Fire Prevention and Public Education 

Winter Safety

Winter weather and holiday activities increase fire and life safety risks. Please help us continue to promote these important reminders:

• Keep space heaters at least three feet from combustibles and never leave them unattended.
• Use caution with fireplaces and candles; never leave open flames unattended.
• Inspect holiday lights and avoid overloading electrical outlets.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.
• Drive cautiously and allow extra time during winter road conditions.

Community Outreach & Appreciation

Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time to support our community events this quarter:

• Fire Prevention Week (October) – Thank you to all the residents, career staff and Michele for all the help.
• October Open Houses – Your engagement and professionalism helped strengthen community relationships.
• Harvest Feast – Pioneer Elementary – Thank you for supporting students and families during this event.
• Winter Family Feast – Mt. View Elementary – Your involvement helped make this a successful and welcoming event.
• City Christmas Parade – Thank you for proudly representing our department.
• Holiday Food Drive – Your generosity helped provide for families in need.
• Santa Parades – Thank you to all who volunteered their time to help spread holiday cheer throughout our neighborhoods.

Looking Ahead

As we head into the new year, let’s continue to focus on safety, training, and service first to our community. Thank you for everything you do — on duty, off duty, and behind the scenes.

Wishing you and your families a safe, happy holiday season and a great New Year.

 

Bob Horst
Assistant Chief–Fire Marshal

 

 

 

From the Desk of Operations & Training

October-December 2025 Quarterly Update

As we wrap up the final quarter of 2025, Grant County Fire District 3 continued to make solid progress in training, operations, and overall district capability. The months of October through December focused on maintaining readiness, improving response capabilities, and preparing members for winter operations.

Training & Professional Development

Training remained consistent throughout the quarter with weekly drills, daily on-duty crew training, and continued emphasis on firefighter and EMT development. A key training event in November was a rooftop victim removal drill at the Cyrus One Data Center, which included rope rescue technicians from multiple Grant County agencies. Using Ladder 3043, crews practiced patient packaging and removal in a realistic, controlled environment.

The Columbia River Fire Academy (CRFA) concluded in December. This joint academy, hosted by GCFD3 in partnership with Royal Slope Fire Rescue and was supported by the Washington State Fire Training Academy RDD. Upon completion, many recruits earned IFSAC certifications, including Firefighter I, Hazardous Materials Awareness, and Hazardous Materials Operations.

Several resident firefighters and a volunteer firefighter are currently enrolled in EMT training and continue working toward certification. An officer development training was also held during the quarter, focusing on administrative responsibilities, leadership expectations, and tactical decision-making. In addition, training was conducted for the Support Services Division, whose members play an important role during public education events such as fall open houses.

Operational Improvements & Capability Upgrades

Operational readiness continued to improve through targeted equipment upgrades. The former rescue tool set from Station 35 has been reassigned to Station 32, resulting in four extrication tool sets strategically deployed across the district. Cribbing packages were rebuilt and standardized across all applicable apparatus to improve safety and consistency during stabilization operations. Additional purchases included Sawzall kits and remote scene lighting, further enhancing on-scene effectiveness. Work has also continued on equipment placement and organization on Rescue 3141, a process that began upon delivery and will continue as the apparatus is fully integrated into operations.

Looking Ahead

Moving into 2026, training will continue to focus on structural firefighting operations, officer development, and multi-agency coordination. With newly certified firefighters, improved equipment placement, and strong regional partnerships, GCFD3 remains well positioned to meet operational demands. Thank you to our members and community for your continued support.

Stay Safe and Stay Sharp,

Todd Hufman
Assistant Chief, Operations & Training

 

Welcome New Volunteers & Staff

Volunteers:
👋Corey Linscott (St. 31)
👋Adam Shelton (St. 37)
👋Sean O'Brien (St. 36)

Residents:
👋Jaiden Barrett

Support:
👋Leah Wells