Over the past two weeks, Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District (NRFPD) has remained actively engaged in training, emergency response, and community support as our district experienced a series of significant events.
Advanced Water Rescue Training
Recently, NRFPD conducted an advanced vehicle-in-river and floodwater rescue training in partnership with Crux Rescue. This course utilized a curriculum originally developed in the United Kingdom, where agencies regularly deal with vehicle submersions and swift floodwater rescues. The curriculum was later adopted by FEMA, rewritten for United States response environments, and delivered locally by Crux Rescue.
This type of training reflects the real risks in our district (roads that run along rivers, bays, and coastal areas) and ensures our firefighters are prepared to respond safely and effectively when lives are at stake.
Major Power Outage – Pacific City
Shortly after the training, NRFPD responded to an incident on Brooten Road in Pacific City, where a vehicle struck and brought down multiple power poles. This caused widespread power and internet outages from Highway 101 and Brooten Road down through the Cape Kiwanda area. We want to recognize Tillamook PUD for its rapid response and coordination. Their crews worked quickly and professionally to restore power, secure the scene, and reopen roadways, minimizing disruption to residents and businesses.
Flooding, Road Impacts, and Rescues
In the days that followed, our district experienced significant flooding, mudslides, and road debris due to continued weather impacts. Flooding affected homes, businesses, and multiple roadways, including:
- Highway 101
- Highway 22
- Highway 130
- Brooten Road
- Resort Drive
- Several additional local roads
Dozens of travel trailers and RVs were affected, and a county bridge was compromised by floodwaters, rendering it unusable. NRFPD responded to several rescue incidents during this period. All individuals involved were safely assisted, and no serious injuries were reported. Despite the elevated call volume and ongoing rescue operations, NRFPD maintained full response capability and ensured personnel were available at all times to respond to other emergency calls within the district.
We extend sincere thanks to county, state, and private agency partners who worked around the clock to restore traffic flow, repair infrastructure, and return services to normal as quickly as possible.
Activation of South County CERT
During this incident period, NRFPD activated the South County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), the first activation in a few years. This marks an essential step in strengthening a partnership we have been intentionally rebuilding. We are grateful to South County CERT for their service, dedication, and willingness to support the community during times of need. Strong emergency response requires strong partnerships, and this activation demonstrated the value of that collaboration.
Looking Ahead – Recruiting Resident Volunteers
As we move into the new year, NRFPD is actively recruiting Resident Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Responders. A Resident Volunteer is a volunteer who lives at one of our fire stations while serving as a volunteer member of the district. This program is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in fire or EMS and offers an immersive, hands-on experience alongside career and volunteer firefighters.
Resident Volunteers:
- Live in a fully operational fire station (housing costs covered by the district)
- Receive ongoing firefighting, EMS, and rescue training
- Respond to emergency calls and pull shifts with career crews
- Attend weekly training with both volunteer and career staff
- Are provided all required PPE, workers’ compensation coverage, and life insurance
- Receive tuition reimbursement for EMT courses and are sent through a fire academy
- Receive a $400 monthly stipend, $90 quarterly stipend, and participation in the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System
- Are provided LifeFlight membership and access to the district’s Employee Assistance Program
- Have access to fitness facilities and swimming pool access
- Pay nothing for utilities, including water, electricity, sewer, or internet
Currently, NRFPD has two stations available for resident volunteers, with a third station coming online next fall. This program reflects NRFPD’s commitment to building the next generation of firefighters and emergency responders while continuing to provide high-quality, reliable service to the community.
Our Commitment
The last two weeks have demonstrated what NRFPD stands for: preparation, professionalism, teamwork, and service. We train hard, respond with purpose, and work alongside our partners to protect our community, today and into the future.
For more information about the Resident Volunteer Program, visit www.nrfpdor.gov.