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HEALTH & SAFETY The mission of the Community Volunteer Fire Department could never be carried out without protecting the health and safety of our personnel. Although the work we do is inherently dangerous, it is the responsibility of the department to minimize those dangers and provide the safest possible working conditions. The Health & Safety Division identifies risks, provides training, establishes policies, and provides for periodic review to ensure the health and safety of the members and compliance to national standards . The ultimate goal of the Health & Safety Division is to minimize all occupational accidents, injuries, illnesses, and exposures to hazardous atmospheres and contagious diseases. DIVISIONS Operations Special Operations Training Health & Safety Community Outreach Logistics Tactical EMS Honor Guard Incident Safety The Health & Safety Division has a small group on Incident Safety Officers who respond to major incidents where they monitor and assess hazards and unsafe situations to ensure safe operations to efficiently mitigate the emergency incident. Infection Control The department's Health & Safety Officer acts as the Designated Infection Control Officer (DICO) to serve as a liaison between members who have sustained exposures to communicable diseases. Health and Wellness Health and Wellness provides medical physicals designed to provide early detection of serious medical conditions and encourage better health, in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards 1582. Critical Incident Stress Management CVFD provides around-the-clock peer based support, intervention, and stress management education to emergency responders. The goal is to reduce critical incident stress on department personnel and prevent the long-term impact from traumatic stress. The CISM team can be activated for a fatality or serious injury of a member or family member, death or serious injury involving a child, or any other high stress situation. Member Assistance Program The Member Assistance Program provides confidential counseling, guidance, and referral services to help members in resolving personal problems that may be adversely affecting their performance, such as emotional problems or substance/alcohol abuse.

STATION 94 Station 94 is solely an EMS response station. Serving the Mission Bend area, Station 94 houses the busiest Medic unit in our area. As our department grew and fleet increased, this station was constructed to take EMS crews out of Station 91 and give them their own facility. This allowed the department to house more suppression apparatus in our central fire station. Encompassing over 80% of our emergency calls, our EMS program is at the forefront of pre-hospital care. Station 94 houses Medic 91, Medic 94, and EMS Supervisor 90. EMS Station 94 16005 Bellaire Blvd Houston, TX. 77083 (281) 498-1310 LOCATIONS Administration Station 91 Station 92 Station 93 Station 94 Station 95 Conference Center Training Facility Westcom

WESTCOM The Westcom 911 Communications Center brings residents the latest technology for fast and efficient handling of their 911 fire and medical calls. Using state-of-the-art technology, Westcom assigns the closest available resource to fire and medical calls, ensuring that citizens receive fast, efficient and high-quality service. WestCom managed over 40,000 calls for service in 2022 for seven fire and EMS agencies including: Community FD, ESD48 FD, Willowfork FD, Westlake FD, Stafford FD, Fulshear FD, and Fresno FD. The new 14,500 square foot facility will allow for additional agencies to be serviced by WestCom as well as support the region’s increase in call volume for the foreseeable future. LOCATIONS Administration Station 91 Station 92 Station 93 Station 94 Station 95 Conference Center Training Facility Westcom

RESPONSE AREA The Community Volunteer Fire Department proudly serves an estimated population of 150,000 residents in the unincorporated portions of Southwestern Harris County and Northeastern Fort Bend County, in the general areas of Alief, Mission Bend, and Cinco Ranch. ABOUT US Overview From the Chief Command Staff Response Area History

STATION 91 Fire Station 91 is considered our central and busiest fire station. Station 91 serves the dense area of Mission Bend, between the boundaries of Highway 6 to slightly West of FM 1464. This current location opened in 2006, moving from an old building historically known as "C Station" Fire Station 91 houses our shift Battalion Chief, Incident Safety Officer, Engine 91, Ladder 91, and Booster 91. Station 91 also houses our Special Operations division including our Heavy Rescue Truck, Foam Pumper, and Mobile Command Vehicle. Fire Station 91 16003 Bellaire Blvd. Houston, TX. 77083 (281) 498-1310 LOCATIONS Administration Station 91 Station 92 Station 93 Station 94 Station 95 Conference Center Training Facility Westcom

FROM THE FIRE CHIEF On behalf of the 300 outstanding men and women of the Community Volunteer Fire Department, I want to thank you for taking the time to visit our website. I hope that our webpages will provide you with valuable information on the wide range of services our agency offers. Community Volunteer Fire Department has been providing professional and dedicated service to the area for the last 50 years. Our department's mission is to provide excellent customer service to the citizens with a set of specialized skills to protect lives, property, and the environment through preparedness, education, and emergency response. The citizens whom call us in their time of need expect knowledgeable and highly trained EMT’s and firefighters to develop a plan of action to mitigate every need of the community. We will provide such service with compassion and commitment to every call of the day. I am truly honored and humbled to serve this department and its citizens as your Fire Chief. ABOUT US Overview From the Chief Command Staff Response Area History Since my early days of volunteering as a firefighter to my current role – serving others is my true passion. I am excited about our future and growing opportunities to exceed our community’s expectations. We are continually working to ensure that our training, equipment and facilities meet the needs of the citizens and neighborhoods we serve. Our department provides multiple programs and services to include: Fire Suppression, Emergency Medical Services, Tactical Medicine, Technical Rescue, Water Rescue, Hazard Materials Mitigation, Community Interaction, and Fire and EMS Training Academies. We will continue to improve Community Volunteer Fire Department to meet the many challenges we may face, as we remain focused on protecting the life and property of the residents of this community.

BATTERY SAFETY The best way to be safe is to prevent a lithium-ion battery fire from starting. Take these important actions now. Lithium-ion batteries can go into thermal runaway undetected and result in a fire. Not just any fire, a fire that emits flames, smoke and toxic gases that can cause an explosion and spread throughout a house, apartment, or storefront. DID YOU KNOW? PUBLIC INFO Public Courses Community Events Fire Station Tours Records Request Pay Transport Bill Knox Box Outdoor Burning Battery Safety From the first warning signs of smoke or hissing noises, you may have less than one minute to escape a lithium-ion battery fire. What is a lithium-ion battery? Lithium-ion is the most popular rechargeable battery chemistry used today. It consists of single or multiple lithium-ion cells along with a protective circuit board. Where can I find lithium-ion battery-powered devices? Lithium-ion battery-powered devices can be found in the home and workplace in many common products such as — cell phones, laptops, electric power tools, wheelchairs, lawn mowers, e-bikes, e-scooters, and electric vehicles. What are the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries? Despite their many advantages, lithium-ion batteries have the potential to overheat, catch fire, and cause explosions. This most commonly occurs when the batteries are damaged, suffer electro-chemical abuse (e.g., from overcharging or completely draining the battery), are in high- or low-temperature environments, or have an internal short-circuit. The heating from the internal short circuit can cause chemical reactions that lead to thermal runaway. What is thermal runaway? Thermal runaway is the primary driver of risks related to lithium-ion batteries. Thermal runaway is what happens when a fault causes self-heating in a battery cell. The process of self-heating generates incredible heat — more than 1,000° F — which decomposes the cell into smoke and flammable and toxic gases. When the heat from thermal runaway spreads to other cells, it can cause them to experience faults and the rest of the battery to go into thermal runaway. Thermal runaway often immediately ignites a fire, but if the ignition is not immediate, the buildup of flammable gases can cause an explosion that blows out windows and spreads fire throughout a structure (e.g., an apartment, house, or storefront). Choose certified products When purchasing lithium-ion battery-powered devices, be sure to look for products that are listed or safety certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to ensure they meet important safety requirements. Countless products sold online do not meet these critical safety standards. Handle lithium-ion battery-powered devices with care Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Only use the charging equipment that comes with the product. Store batteries away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, exits, and anything flammable. Do not modify the battery or the charger in any way. Charge larger devices (such as eBikes) outside the home – and never in your exit path. • Do not charge larger devices overnight. Always stay alert for warning signs Check battery-powered devices often for damage or abuse such as swelling or punctures. Listen for unusual hissing or popping sounds. Watch out for excessive heat or a strange odor. If you notice any of these warning signs, stop using the lithium-ion powered devices. White or gray wispy smoke indicates immediate danger of thermal runaway Recycle devices and batteries properly Responsibly dispose of old or damaged batteries and devices by taking them to the nearest battery recycling center. Never discard batteries, chargers, or battery-powered devices in regular trash bins. Get out quickly if there’s a fire Know the warning signs to look and listen for and get out if you see – or hear – one. Follow your home fire escape plan to leave immediately and call 9-1-1 . Educate others on battery safety Now that you know what actions to take, spread the word. Protect your friends and loved ones by sharing how they can Take C.H.A.R.G.E. of Battery Safety Learn more at batteryfiresafety.org

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Click each to view Take me back to Recruiting Home Are there any state or local residency requirements to apply? Will my experience and rank at another fire department carry over to CVFD? RECRUITING Requirements Disqualifiers FAQ What is the shift schedule? Does CVFD have a tattoo policy? What if I have a criminal record? Do you offer practice opportunities for the physical ability test? When should I expect to be contacted regarding my application?

COMMAND STAFF The Command Staff is responsible for providing direction, oversight, and control of both the administrative and operational functions of the Department. These members control the department’s annual budget, as well as develop and implement policies to ensure the continued quality of service through the effective use of resources. Additionally, the Assistant Chiefs manage personnel assigned to the department’s various divisions. Bobby Clark Fire Chief Josh Taylor Assistant Fire Chief Lina Alvarado Assistant Chief Administration Chris Armatta Deputy Chief Special Operations Kirk Henderson Deputy Chief Logistics Johnny Mitchell Deputy Chief Volunteers ABOUT US Overview From the Chief Command Staff Response Area History Christopher Stephens M.D. Medical Director Fire Chief The Fire Chief is the highest-ranking officer of the fire department, directly responsible for the efficient operation of the entire organization. Responsibilities include oversight of all personnel, strategic planning, policy development, and fiscal management. Assistant Chief The Assistant Fire/EMS Chief is responsible for the administration and coordination of the department’s operations including emergency response, and all supporting divisions. Responsibilities include strategic planning, policy development, and oversight of all operations related to fire suppression, prevention, and professional development. They are also responsible for the administration and coordination of the activities, personnel, and resources of the Emergency Medical Services Division of the Department. Responsibilities include strategic planning, policy development, and oversight of all operations related to emergency medical services. Assistant Chief of Administration The Assistant Chief of Administration is responsible for the administrative functions of the department including project management, human resources, information technology, and managing financial activities. Deputy Chief of Logistics The Deputy Chief of Logistics is responsible for maintaining the department’s assets including fleet, facilities, and equipment necessary for day-to-day operations. Deputy Chief of Special Operations The Deputy Chief of Special Operations oversees the planning, staffing, and response aspects of the Special Operations Division. Medical Director The Medical Director is responsible for all medical aspects of pre-hospital patient care. The Medical Director has the authority to approve the level of pre-hospital care which may be rendered by each of the department's members, establish and monitor compliance with field performance guidelines, and establish/monitor training standards.

OVERVIEW Comprised of approximately 300 dedicated men and women, the Community Volunteer Fire Department is an all-hazard, full-service agency that responds to over 12,000 calls annually. We proudly provide fire protection, emergency medical service, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, and a variety of other services to the public. As a combination department, our staff consists of both paid and volunteer members who fully staff our stations 24 hours a day. Formed in 1971, the Community Protection ABOUT US Overview From the Chief Command Staff Response Area History Agency acts as the department's board of directors. Additionally, CVFD's services are contracted by Harris/Fort Bend ESD #100 who is ultimately responsible for providing fire and EMS services to the area. You can read more about the last 50 years on our history page. Mission Statement Community Volunteer Fire Department exists to provide excellent customer service to the citizens with a set of specialized skills to protect lives, property, and the environment through preparedness, education, and emergency response. ISO Rating The Community Volunteer Fire Department has earned a Class 1 rating by the Insurance Services Office (ISO), the highest possible rating for fire protection services. The Insurance Services Office (ISO) uses a countrywide classification system to rate a community’s fire protection capabilities. The ISO rating system takes into account a fire department’s response time, training, staffing levels, and the fire dispatch system. The rating system also includes an analysis of the water delivery system of the area controlled my Municipal Utility Districts. More than 50,000 fire departments are graded by ISO, and currently there are only 75 agencies in Texas and 411 in the United States that have earned a Class 1 rating. Our department continues to maintain the best overall coverage to ensure our public safety needs exceed expectations.

LOGISTICS The Logistics Division of the Community Volunteer Fire Department is responsible for the procurement and maintenance of all capital assets such as fire stations, apparatus, equipment, department vehicles, and technology assets. Fleet Maintenance As our call volume continues to increase, it is important that our fleet remains operational in order to best serve the public. The Logistics Division works daily to coordinate the repair and preventative maintenance of our fleet to ensure they are functioning and ready to respond when needed. The Logistics Division also maintains a fleet of reserve apparatus so that a replacement is immediately available should one of our front line apparatus go down. DIVISIONS Operations Special Operations Training Health & Safety Community Outreach Logistics Tactical EMS Honor Guard Apparatus Committee That apparatus committee is a dedicated group that not only designs but remains involved in the manufacturing process of new apparatus. The committee evaluates the current and future needs of the department to strategically design apparatus to ensure they are effective in upholding the mission of the department as well as maintain the safety of our personnel. The Apparatus Committee travels to the manufacturing plant for the design process and follows up with a secondary visit for final inspection. Facility Maintenance Between daily fire station life, public courses, and training events, our facilities require constant maintenance to remain operational. The Logistics Division works to ensure this so that our personnel have a safe and functioning work environment. Quartermaster The department’s Quartermaster outfits all department personnel with uniforms and structural firefighter turnout gear. The Quartermaster also maintains records of firefighting gear and ensures compliance with national standards.

OUTDOOR BURNING INFORMATION Harris County: Fort Bend County: Burn Ban In Effect Burn Ban In Effect Burn Ban FAQ (click for more info) What Does a Burn Ban Mean? What is allowed during Burn Ban? What are the Penalties for Outdoor Burning under a Burn Ban? How Can Residents Help? What is used to Initiate a Burn Ban? OUTDOOR BURNING INFORMATION PUBLIC INFO Public Courses Community Events Fire Station Tours Records Request Pay Transport Bill Knox Box Outdoor Burning Battery Safety Outdoor burning, in general, is illegal because it contributes to air pollution. However, there are some exceptions in which burning is allowed. In those cases, the Outdoor Burning Rule has been designed to protect the environment and promote public health and safety. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and County Health Departments regulate outdoor burning according to TCEQ rules. Outdoor burning is only authorized through the TCEQ rules. Fire Marshals and Fire Chiefs do not have the authority to authorize outdoor burning. The Fire Marshal can, however, prohibit all outdoor burning when a Burn Ban is issued. Outdoor burning is not authorized when a Burn Ban has been issued unless specifically permitted by the TCEQ. Alternatives to Burning What can you do instead of burning your waste? Here are a few ideas: Recycling is separating paper, glass, plastics, aluminum and other metals, computer and small electronic waste from trash material. Some materials can be sold at a salvage yard or donated at a recycling center or landfill. Composting wastes from landscape maintenance can often be easily composted on site. Similar wastes, even some papers, can be composted under the right conditions. Mechanical Chipping or Mulching of wood and plant products can be used for soil enrichment, moisture retention and creating compost. In some cases, mulch can be a marketable product and put to use where it is produced or given to residents and nurseries. If the material cannot be used as landscape mulch, chipping can still be useful to reduce the volume of waste that must be disposed of by some other means. Logging of trees cleared for development sometimes can be converted to a marketable product—lumber, pulp or firewood—as one way to reduce the costs of disposal. Landfills are a permitted outdoor area for waste disposal. Some landfills have recycling centers with chippers for wood waste and collection bins for paper, plastic and glass. What I need to know... Domestic Waste You may burn domestic waste if garbage collection is not provided by a municipality or utility district. Domestic wastes include waste that normally results from the function of life within a residence and include: kitchen garbage, untreated lumber, cardboard boxes, packaging (including plastics, rubber), clothing, grass, leaves, and branch trimmings. Burning may occur only on properties used exclusively as a private residence not housing more than 3 families. Businesses cannot burn domestic waste! Plant Growth On-site burning of trees, brush, grass, leaves, branch trimmings and other plant growth by the property owner or authorized agent is allowed if there is no practical alternative. Because of the air quality issues in this area, TCEQ region 12 will generally require a practical alternative. Only TCEQ may determine if a practical alternative exists. If there is no practical alternative then the material must be generated from the property on which the burning occurs, generated as a result of right-of-way maintenance or land clearing operations or maintenance along water canals. Crop Residue Burning Burning of crop residue for agricultural management purposes is allowed when no practical alternative exists. Burning of crop residue is subject to general requirements for allowable outdoor burning. Structures containing sensitive receptors (humans and livestock) must not be negatively impacted by the burn. Notification to TCEQ is recommended but not required. Additional Requirements Outdoor burning which is otherwise authorized is subject to additional requirements. The outdoor burning must not create a nuisance condition or a traffic hazard. Additional requirements apply and are included below. Burning must take place outside corporate limits of a city or town. Smoke and pollutants from burning will not be allowed to cause adverse effects to any public road, landing strip, navigable water, or occupied offsite structure. Burning must be conducted at least 300 ft. downwind of an offsite occupied structure unless written approval has been obtained from the owner/person in possession of the structure. Burning may commence no earlier than 1 hour after sunrise and must be completed no later than 1 hour before sunset. The fire must be attended at all times. Burning shall not occur when the wind speed is less than 6 MPH or greater than 23 MPH. Electrical insulation, treated lumber, plastics, non-wood construction demolition material, oils, asphaltic material, chemical wastes, explosive materials, and items containing rubber may not be burned. Burning may not be conducted during a Burn Ban.