Welcome to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) Volunteer in Prevention (VIP) Program. 

The VIP program is an integral part of CDF’s fire prevention and public education program.  Volunteer activities complement the information, education, engineering and law enforcement components of CDF.

CDF initiated the VIP program on July 1, 1980 .  The program was authorized by the California State Government Volunteers’ Act enacted by SB 1950.  The program was established to aid the dwindling fire prevention staffs.  The VIP program utilizes citizen’s volunteers in a variety of prevention activities such as child safety education programs, home inspections, fire patrols, fairs, parades, and public information.  Because of the success in reducing fires, the VIP Program has grown to 2500 volunteers’ strong (state wide).  It is a partnership of people in the community and CDF working together to reduce fires and educate the public in fire prevention and safety measures.

CDF involves and utilizes citizens and public service groups to promote public safety education.  VIP’s assist CDF in the prevention of the ignition and initial spread of unwanted human cause fires, with the emphasis upon the prevention of large, damaging fires.

On their own initiative, minor and adult VIP’s provide goods or services without any financial gain.  Volunteers do not replace paid employees; instead, their efforts supplement and extend the services of CDF.

Who can be a Volunteer-in-Prevention?

Because of the flexible nature and variety of functions that the VIP program provides, virtually anyone can become a VIP.  The program currently has men and women participants ranging in experience from professionals to students, and boy scouts to retirees. 

VIP Activities

As a VIP, there are numerous activities in which to participate.  Listed below is a sample of yearly activities:

• Fair exhibits and displays

            Staff booths and provide fire prevention information

            Wear Smokey or Sparky Costume (voluntary)

• Road Patrol during high fire danger periods

Drive your own vehicle (marked) in order to increase public awareness of fire danger.  VIP’s are compensated for personal vehicle patrol mileage.

• Inspect rural homes for compliance with fire laws

Use established standards to assist the public in making their property more Fire Safe.

• Assist CDF information officer during large fires

When large fires are occurring there is a heavy demand by the public and the media for information.  After being properly trained, VIP’s may be called upon to staff information centers to meet this demand.

• Office Support for VIP and Fire Prevention program

Occasionally VIP’s are asked to assist staff in preparing program required materials or other related activities.

• Fire Prevention education programs

Visit school and other community organizations to present the Fire Prevention story and answer questions about the CDF. To view our latest VIP New Letter click here.

We hope that information helps you understand the VIP Program and its importance.  Should you have any questions regarding the program, please feel free to contact the program direction, Mary Ann Aldrich, at 530-538-6837, ext. 165.