Voter-approved fire levy funds better staffing, training, and emergency response

BRUSH PRAIRIE — Clark County Fire District 3 is delivering on its promises to the community, thanks to voter approval of the fire levy lid lift in last August’s primary election. The district is increasing staffing levels and investing in advanced training for emergency personnel. 

Key projects include hiring five firefighter/EMTs to address increasing call volumes, replacing an aging ambulance, and upgrading facilities to enhance response times. Specialized training programs in wildland fire response and technical rescue—such as ropes, swift water, and confined space rescues—will improve survival rates and reduce reliance on help from outside agencies.

“We are grateful for the community’s trust in us and support in approving the fire levy lid lift,” said Fire Chief Chris Drone. “These investments are transformative and enable us to better protect lives and property.”

The projects that Fire District 3 has planned this year benefit the community beyond improving safety. Fire districts with enhanced capabilities often receive better insurance ratings, which may lower homeowner insurance premiums for residents.

Fire District 3 engages in much more than fire suppression and EMS. The agency is invested in preventing emergencies before they happen through programs in local schools and in the community, including CPR, first aid, station tours, fire risk assessments, youth fire starters prevention, and more. For information, or to apply for a career in the fire service, visit www.fire3.org.  

Clark County Fire District 3 provides fire and life safety services to over 46,000 people in east Clark County, including the City of Battle Ground. Fifty-seven full-time and 10 volunteer emergency personnel responded to 5,175 calls in 2023. Fire District 3 operates under a balanced budget and has a long history of passing its financial and accountability audits by the state. More information on Fire District 3 can be found at www.fire3.org.