Recognizing police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers and other emergency responders

By Allen D. Payton

Today, Wednesday, October 28, 2026, is National First Responders Day, recognizing the dedicated men and women who answer the call when our communities need them most.

From law enforcement officers and firefighters to emergency medical personnel and dispatchers, first responders work around the clock to protect lives, provide help during emergencies, and serve their communities.

To all of our first responders — thank you for your service, dedication, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.

According to DaysoftheYear.com, the history of first responders in the US dates back to the Civil War, when field workers would provide needed, on-site care to wounded soldiers. But this idea dates even further back to Europe, during the Napoleonic Wars, where lightweight wagons delivered the wounded to field hospitals.

According to historical records, the first civilian ambulance in the United States was put into service in 1865, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Since then, modern Emergency Medical Services (EMS) systems have developed over time to include the range available today: fire services, ambulances, helicopters,

National First Responders Day was originally made official in the state of Colorado in 2017. Since then, the popularity of the day has continued to grow to other states and has made a number of strides in getting recognized.

According to Officer.com, “Organizations across the country are marking National First Responders Day today with ceremonies, educational programs, recognition events and fundraising efforts honoring police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers and other emergency responders. The annual observance recognizes the men and women who respond when emergencies strike and highlights the sacrifices they make in service to their communities.

“The First Responders Children’s Foundation…hosted its annual Roll Call of Heroes ceremony in New York City. The event recognizes first responders from across the country representing law enforcement, fire, EMS, 911 dispatch and volunteer response organizations. The ceremony also marks the foundation’s 25th anniversary, the 25th anniversary of 9/11 and America’s 250th birthday.”

In addition, the U.S. Fire Administration recognizes National First Responders Day on Oct. 28 saying, “This day serves as a tribute to the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities in times of crisis.

“First responders are the backbone of emergency services: firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, paramedics and 911 dispatchers. These individuals are the first to arrive at the scene of emergencies, providing critical assistance and often risking their own lives to save others.

“Every day, across the United States, approximately 4.6 million first responders stand ready to answer the call of duty. They face a wide range of challenges, from severe weather events and chemical emergencies to fires, vehicle accidents and acts of terrorism.

National First Responders Day is an opportunity for all Americans to show their appreciation for these everyday heroes. At the USFA, we encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by first responders and their families.”

Happy National First Responders Day!

By Contra Costa County Community Warning System

The Contra Costa County Community Warning System (CWS) is recognized as one of the nation’s most modern and effective all-hazard public warning systems. The CWS is a partnership of the Office of the Sheriff, the Health Services Department, other government agencies, industry, news media and the non-profit Community Awareness & Emergency Response (CAER) organization, all striving to deliver time-sensitive and potentially life-saving information to the people of Contra Costa County.

How will we notify you?

Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA)

The CWS is designed to provide specific information directly to the media through the Emergency Alert System. The EAS interrupts TV and radio broadcasts to deliver major local, regional, and national emergency alerts. Following the initial alert, TV and Radio stations provide ongoing status reports and information.

The CWS uses a federal system that sends text alerts to your smartphone during major emergencies, no registration needed! Check with your cell phone service provider to see if your cell phone can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts.

Voice, Text, and Email Alert Messages

The CWS is able to send compatible wireless devices voice, text, and email alerts in an emergency.  Unlike with a WEA or EAS alert, you will need to register with the CWS to receive these additional messages. 

Sirens

The CWS may use sirens to alert you to a possible industrial hazard in your area. Sirens are sounded to draw your attention away from your daily activities. When you hear a siren, the best first protective action is to Shelter, Shut and Listen.

Sirens are tested on the first Wednesday of every month at 11:00 am. For the remaining Wednesdays, a more quiet and low-volume “growl” test is performed at 11:00 am. For a siren location map click here.

NOAA Weather Radio

CWS uses the National Weather Service to provide emergency alerts and information for major non-weather related emergencies. Weather radios are an inexpensive and reliable way to receive these alerts. These devices can be battery powered to provide a means of receiving emergency alerts if your power is out. Learn more about NOAA Weather Radios here.

Learn more at https://cwsalerts.com.

By California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection 

Sacramento, CA —As California continues to strengthen emergency preparedness and public safety communications, CAL FIRE and local government emergency response agencies are announcing the availability of the AwareCA mobile application, providing Californians with another tool to stay informed and connected during emergencies. 

“We know the public wants fast, accurate, mobile-first information directly from the agencies managing incidents on the ground,” said CAL FIRE Director/Fire Chief Joe Tyler. “We have always provided timely and accurate information to the public during emergencies, and now with AwareCA, CAL FIRE can provide the public this information in near real time, where they want it, their mobile device.”

AwareCA addresses the growing public demand for fast, accurate, reliable, and authoritative emergency information while reducing confusion caused by fragmented alerts, unofficial reports, rumors, and misinformation.

Developed through a collaborative process between CAL FIRE, Intterra, and local emergency response agencies, AwareCA was designed to support millions of users while ensuring agencies retain ownership of their data and maintain a single source of truth for public information. The app is designed to keep communities informed throughout all phases of an incident by providing:

• Near real-time incident updates
• Interactive emergency maps
• Warning and order evacuation zones
• Shelter and assistance locations
• Hazard information
• Road closures
• Push notifications and location-aware alerts

AwareCA will support a wide range of emergencies and incidents across California, including wildfires, floods, earthquakes, severe weather situations, hazardous materials incidents, and other large-scale emergencies.

All features of AwareCA are free for the user, including but not limited to:

• Adding locations of interest with notification distances
• Choosing different maps based on needs and preferences
• Selecting layers to control which hazards get displayed
• Viewing the map to quickly find incidents and emergency information
• Following incidents and sharing critical information with contacts
• Receiving alerts about fast-moving incidents directly from agencies
• Following response assets such as aircraft
• Viewing Caltrans traffic cameras and ALERTCalifornia wildfire cameras

During fast-moving emergencies, information can change quickly. AwareCA is designed to help Californians stay connected to updates from the agencies responsible for managing incidents, reducing reliance on unofficial sources and making it easier to find relevant information in one place.

Residents are encouraged to download the app and enable notifications for areas where they live, work, travel or have loved ones. AwareCA is now available for download on mobile devices in the App Store and Google Play.

For more information, visit Aware.ca.gov. 

Seek public’s help for 54-year-old male, 63-year-old female victims, both possibly homeless

By Lt. Franco Cesar, Antioch Police Department

ANTIOCH, CA — The Antioch Police Department (APD) is seeking assistance from the public following two separate and unrelated hit-and-run collisions involving pedestrians on the evening of Saturday, September 12, 2026. Both victims sustained major injuries and were airlifted to local trauma centers.

Incident Overviews

• E. 18th Street & Phillips Lane (Case #26-8734): At 6:50 PM, APD Dispatch received a report of a pedestrian down. Officers arrived on scene within three minutes and rendered immediate medical aid to a 54-year-old man suffering severe leg injuries. Contra Costa County Fire Protection District personnel assumed care upon arrival, and the victim was airlifted via helicopter to a trauma center. The driver fled the scene. Witnesses describe the suspect vehicle as a dark gray sedan.

When asked for his city of residence Sgt. Rob Green said, “He is from Antioch and possibly a transient.”

According to the department’s CitizenRIMS Crime Map, the call was closed Saturday at 8:56 PM, the Disposition is listed as Report Taken-Felony and the Incident Number is 2609120132.

• 801 Sunset Drive (Case #26-8737): At 9:57 PM, officers responded to a completely separate and unrelated report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. Upon arrival at 10:00 PM, officers provided initial aid to a 63-year-old woman who suffered major injuries to her arms and legs near the Antioch Napa Auto Parts store. She was subsequently transported via helicopter to a trauma center. The suspect vehicle fled prior to law enforcement arrival, and the APD Traffic Unit responded to conduct an on-scene investigation.

According to the CitizenRIMS Crime Map, the call was closed Sunday 9/13/2026 at 11:24 AM, the Disposition is listed as Supplement which means another report was taken, and the Incident Number is 2609120155.

Regarding the other report Green said, “We were told there was possible foul play from a supplemental call and that she is a homeless woman in Antioch. But we have nothing to support the claim foul play was involved. The car came out of nowhere.”

Asked if the second incident is also considered a felony Green said, “Yes, it is.”

Both investigations remain active and ongoing. Anyone who witnessed either incident, has surveillance or dashcam footage from the surrounding areas at these times, or possesses information regarding the fleeing vehicles, is urged to contact Sgt. Green of the Traffic Unit at (925) 779-6864. Anonymous tips may also be submitted to the department.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Con Fire, Walnut Creek Police Bomb Squad, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assist

By Lt. William Whitaker #6155, Antioch Police Investigations Bureau

Following an investigation that began at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the Antioch Police Department served a search warrant on Thursday July 30th at a residence in the 4000 block of South Royal Links Circle as part of an ongoing investigation involving possible homemade explosive devices.

To ensure the operation was conducted safely, the Antioch Police Department coordinated with specialized law enforcement partners. The Department thanks Con Fire, the Walnut Creek Police Department Bomb Squad, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for their professionalism, expertise and assistance throughout this investigation.

The scene has been secured, and investigators have determined there are no ongoing public safety concerns.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. To protect the integrity of the investigation, no further information will be released at this time.

The Antioch Police Department appreciates the community’s cooperation and patience during this operation. Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact Antioch Police Detective Shaffer at (925) 779-6944 or by email cshaffer@antiochca.gov.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Former Fire Chief for City of Dixon started in new position, today

By Kristi Jourdan, PIO, Contra Costa County Office of Communications & Media and Lauren Ono, Con Fire PIO

(Martinez, CA) – Today, Tuesday, May 12, 2026, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors appointed Aaron McAlister as Fire Chief of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (Con Fire). He started in his new position immediately.

McAlister has served with Con Fire since 2016 and most recently served as Deputy Fire Chief of Administration, overseeing Communications/Fire Dispatch, Information Systems, Support Services, Finance, and Human Resources. Prior to that, he served as Assistant Fire Chief and played a key role in strengthening the District’s operational readiness, facilities, staffing, and regional coordination.

During his tenure, McAlister helped lead major district advancements, including the annexation of the East Contra Costa and Rodeo-Hercules fire districts and the service contract with the City of Pinole. He also supported the expansion of firefighting resources, staffing, facilities, and emergency services, while advancing wildfire mitigation efforts and helping establish more than 40 Firewise communities.

“Chief McAlister has demonstrated strong leadership, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to public safety throughout his career with Con Fire,” said Board Chair Diane Burgis. “Through a highly competitive selection process, he distinguished himself as the top choice to lead the District. His experience and vision will help ensure Contra Costa County continues to deliver the high level of fire protection and emergency services our residents depend on every day.”

Before joining Con Fire, McAlister served as Fire Chief for the City of Dixon.

McAlister replaces Chief Lewis Broschard, who retired in March after more than 30 years in the fire service, including 18 years with Con Fire. Broschard briefly returned in an interim capacity to support leadership continuity during the transition.

“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve as Fire Chief,” said McAlister. “Con Fire’s firefighters, dispatchers, fire prevention staff, support staff, professional staff, and leadership team are among the very best in the fire service. I look forward to building on our strong foundation and continuing our mission of protecting lives, property, and the environment throughout Contra Costa County.”

McAlister holds a Master of Arts in Homeland Security from the Center for Homeland Defense and Security at the Naval Postgraduate School and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento. He is a Certified Fire Chief through the California State Fire Marshal and holds a Chief Fire Officer credential from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

The cost of this position for the remainder of the fiscal year is approximately $79,324 with the total ongoing cost projected at $634,595 annually. Funding for this position is included in the District operating budget.

Contra Costa Fire provides fire protection and emergency medical services to more than 790,000 residents across 13 cities and 11 unincorporated communities throughout Contra Costa County.

By Jaden Baird, PIO, City of Antioch

ANTIOCH, CA — The City of Antioch began its annual weed abatement program on March 30, 2026, with work continuing on or before June 30, 2026, to help reduce wildfire risk in City-owned open spaces.

Each year, the City coordinates this effort with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD) to mow and disc vegetation in designated areas. This seasonal work is an important part of Antioch’s wildfire prevention efforts and helps limit the spread of fire during the dry season.

The locations included in the City’s weed abatement program can be viewed on the maps posted on the City’s Street Maintenance webpage under Related Documents: https://www.antiochca.gov/1049/Street-Maintenance or City of Antioch_Annual Weed Abatement Maps

Residents with questions or concerns may contact the City of Antioch Public Works Department at (925) 779-6950 or by email at publicworks@antiochca.gov.

But just temporarily

By Contra Costa County Office of Communications & Media

(Martinez, CA) – The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (Con Fire) has reinstated Fire Chief Lewis Broschard to serve as Fire Chief on an interim basis until a permanent appointment is made.

Chief Broschard retired in March after more than 18 years of distinguished service, marked by strong leadership and a deep commitment to public safety and the residents of Contra Costa County.

During his tenure, the District achieved significant advancements, including the annexation of the East Contra Costa and Rodeo-Hercules fire districts and a service contract with the City of Pinole. He also led the expansion of firefighting resources, staffing, facilities, and emergency services, while strengthening wildfire mitigation efforts and supporting the creation of more than 40 Firewise communities.

“Chief Broschard’s return ensures experienced leadership and continuity while the District conducts a search for its next permanent Fire Chief,” said Board Chair Diane Burgis, District 3 Supervisor.