2026 annual drive
The following information is from our 2026 Annual Drive pamphlet that’s handed out door-to-door.
Why We Do an Annual Drive
Volunteer fire departments rely on the generosity of our neighbors to keep our operations running. These donations directly fund life saving equipment, vehicle maintenance, rigorous firefighter training, and essential resources that go beyond our standard operating budget.
More importantly, our fundraising efforts allow us to connect with you. When we visit, we aren’t just asking for support; we’re here to help. We can inspect your smoke detectors, answer fire safety questions, and strengthen the bond between our crew and the residents we protect.
Your contributions also sustain our community programs, including blood drives and public safety education. If we miss you during our neighborhood visit, we would still love to connect. Please call us at (707) 786-9909 to schedule a more convenient time, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Who We Are & What We Do
Serving Ferndale Since 1897
The Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department has been a cornerstone of our community for over a century. Our members are on call 24/7, standing ready to respond to medical emergencies, fires, and public safety calls throughout the Ferndale Fire Protection District.
Being “always ready” requires constant dedication. Our team undergoes weekly training drills and monthly briefings to master the latest fire technology and emergency medical sciences. We take pride in maintaining our equipment and sharpening our skills to ensure the fastest, most effective response when our neighbors need us most.
More Than an Emergency Response
We believe that serving community means being a part of it. Beyond the siren, we are committed to civic leadership and community enrichment. Our ongoing outreach programs include:
Youth & Education: Offering 4th of July fire truck rides, conducting Fire Prevention Week demonstrations for local students, and providing scholarships for high school seniors pursuing careers in public service.
Health & Safety: Hosting semiannual blood drives at the Fire Hall.
Community Traditions: Caring for the lights on our town’s iconic Christmas Tree.
Inclusive Events: Partnering with the Redwood Coast Regional Center to host sensory friendly holiday experiences for individuals with special needs.
Support the FD via Venmo
Supporting the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department has never been easier. To better serve our community, we are accepting donations via Venmo. By moving toward digital giving, we’ve made it possible for you to contribute securely in seconds, no cash or checks required.
Simply click here or search FVFD-25 on the app to help fund the Companies that keep Ferndale safe. Every digital donation is instantly tracked and recorded, ensuring your generosity goes exactly where it’s needed most: back into our community.
2025 Firefighter of the Year
Congratulations to Captain Jif D’Aguanno of Company 4! Your leadership and commitment to the department are an inspiration to us all.
Ferndale CERT Program
Empower Yourself. Protect Your Community.
Joining the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is about more than just preparation — it’s about peace of mind. By training in essential disaster response skills, you gain the confidence to lead and the ability to protect your family when every second counts. For Ferndale, CERT members are a vital lifeline. By assisting professional responders with damage assessment, public education, and disaster recovery, our volunteers help our community bounce back faster. This partnership between residents and professionals creates a stronger, safer, and more resilient environment for everyone.
Take the First Step.
Contact Chief Ron Sligh at the Ferndale PD for more information on how to get involved.
2025 Calls for Service
Last year, FVFD responded to 321 calls, 57 more than in 2024.
Medicals, 195 — 61%
Public Assists, 48 — 15%
Misc Fires, 36 — 11%
Hazardous Conditions, 16 — 5%
Traffic Collisions, 8 — 2%
Vegetation Fires, 7 — 2%
Other Incidents, 6 — 2%
Structure Fires, 5 — 2%
