Stay ConnectedThis is the official podcast of the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District. This is the official channel for public information and updates. During major emergency situations, we may use this podcast to keep our citizens updated and safe.
Questions: info@sbcfire.org or (909) 387-5974
Copyright: © San Bernardino County Fire
Host Captain Shawn Millerick comes to you from the kitchen table at Station 72 in Fontana.
Episode Highlights
Camp Life, EMT School, and the Road to Becoming a Paramedic
Shawn sits down with Firefighters Dominguez and Pitts while dinner finishes on the stove. The group walks through time at the fire camps, EMT school, AO assignments, tower spots, and what it takes to move from the box to the floor as a newly minted paramedic.
Ice Hockey and the Legacy of the Worcester 6
Dakota shares the story of playing ice hockey in Worcester, the memorial games honoring the Worcester 6, and meeting family members of firefighters lost in the 1999 cold storage fire. The conversation connects hockey, line-of-duty sacrifice, and the shared culture of the fire service on both coasts.
Ontario Fire Hockey Team and Giving Back
Listeners get an inside look at the Ontario Fire hockey team and the Anaheim Ducks First Responders League. The crew talks rivalries with Orange County Sheriff, LA County Fire, and FDNY’s Fire on Ice game, then pivots to a fundraiser shirt for Spandrio's family, designed in partnership with Violent Gentlemen and supported across the department.
Station Pride, Logos, and Design Work
Dakota explains how a love for jerseys and graphic design turned into station logos, mechanic patches, October breast cancer shirts, and other apparel projects that boost morale and showcase “County Cowboys” pride throughout San Bernardino County Fire.
USAR Training Preview
Inside the USAR World at Station 72
USAR specialists Andy Lujan and Ryan Brown join the podcast to talk about life in the USAR program, busy call volume, and recent incidents, including mine rescues and jumper calls that require major set-ups and teamwork.
Army Visit and Joint Training
The crew breaks down an upcoming visit from Army engineer reservists who want to learn more about collapse rescue, mutual aid, and how USAR resources can support large-scale incidents after experiences overseas. The team plans a hands-on equipment and capability overview at Station 72.
New Rigs, Standardization, and Tech Tools
Andy and Ryan walk through plans for new rescue apparatus at Station 91 and 72, efforts to mirror compartments and tools across rigs, and a wish list of future equipment. The episode highlights new cameras for machine entrapment calls, twin-tension rope systems, heavy-lift drones, and the new fire engine at 72 that is headed up the hill for photos and field testing.
This Day in History
For the “day in history” segment, Shawn travels back to December 11, 1978, to tell the story behind the Lufthansa heist at JFK Airport, later dramatized in Goodfellas. The crew talks about the real-life robbery, the mob connections, and why the case still captures public imagination.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 17 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
Episode Highlights
Training Day at Station 221
Shawn Millerick takes the PIO podcast on the road and sets up in the training room at Station 221, recording with a full mobile studio. Mike Arvizo joins him on the mic, and they welcome a special group of guests who traveled far beyond county lines.
A Ladder Truck for Mexicali
Firefighters from Mexicali arrive in San Bernardino County for hands-on training with their newly donated American LaFrance tiller truck. Shawn and Mike discuss how this donation happened, why the Rotary Club and local partners stepped up, and what this rig will mean for a city of more than one million people that sees frequent structure fires. The crew also shares stories about the department’s size, stations, and the challenges of protecting such a dense and busy metro area.
Meet the Mexicali Firefighters
Through translation and conversation, listeners learn about the visiting firefighters’ ranks, backgrounds, and the unique structure of their department. From volunteers trying to earn paid spots, to their tallest buildings, busiest stations, and daily call load, the episode highlights the deep passion and pride behind their service. The group reflects on the international brotherhood of the fire service and what it means to train together across borders.
Life at Station 221
Shawn sits down with the crew to talk about station life, new remodels, future plans for the training rooms, and the nonstop flow of activity at one of the busiest places in the county. The conversation drifts into personal hobbies, including Tony’s love for bicycles and Mike’s constant travel stories.
Tech Corner
Shawn briefly revisits the National Emergency Response Information System training and shows the team the SBC Fire app. The crew also discusses new air monitors arriving across the county and how much more advanced the technology has become.
This Day in History
With the episode set to release on Thursday, Shawn looks ahead to celebrate Walt Disney’s birthday, shares a clip from Disneyland’s opening day, and adds a fun fact about his own time working in the park.
Joke of the Day
A classic groaner makes its way into the episode when Shawn asks the crew for a clean joke and eventually lands on a pun that earns at least one chuckle.
Spark of Love and Holiday Season Notes
The team touches on Spark of Love events ramping up across the county and updates listeners on equipment and technology rolling out to the field.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:Video Show Notes for Episode 17
We’re back with Episode 16 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
Episode Highlights
Turkey Day at Headquarters
Shawn Millerick hosts a Thanksgiving episode recorded early so the PIO podcast still drops on time. He shares how a simple sign up for a small office potluck turned into a massive feast that looked more like a Golden Corral buffet. The crew at headquarters earns a well deserved shoutout for putting together one of the biggest spreads he has ever seen.
Inside MIS with Ed Knight
Shawn drags in Ed Knight from MIS, one of the few people left in the building, to talk shop. They cover Ed’s move from the District Attorney’s Office, how multi factor authentication protects the department after a past email breach, the challenge of supporting stations across a huge county, and the nonstop help desk coverage even on holidays. They also discuss upcoming tablet upgrades for apparatus and what it is like navigating the maze of servers and tech that keeps County Fire running.
Leadership Lessons from Gettysburg
Ed shares his takeaways from the leadership retreat, including the long days, the value of learning from mistakes, and his chaotic trip home that put those lessons to the test. From delayed flights to midnight Uber rides, it becomes a story only firefighters and tech crews can fully appreciate.
Tech Corner with Captain Brian Nickles
Brian calls in to break down several major projects including the department’s transition to the new National Emergency Response Information System. He explains how County Fire is helping shape the next generation of reporting and how the new system will finally simplify forms for firefighters. He also covers improvements in cost recovery, ambulance billing, and why even small documentation changes can turn into millions of dollars that support the department.
Mountain Weather with Bobby
Bobby checks in from the snow covered mountains with a backyard weather report and a quick look at life above 6,000 feet. Heavy snow, cleared driveways, and a dash of mountain humor set the tone.
This Day in History and a Macy’s Parade Bonus
Shawn shares the story of the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and a fun fact about the last wooden escalator in America, still operating inside the historic Macy’s store in New York.
Joke of the Day
The IT department gets the spotlight with a groaner that is perfectly timed for the holiday mood.
Shoutout to the Crews
The episode ends with recognition for firefighters who recently rescued nine dogs from a house fire, a story that made national news on CNN.
Fun Fact
Shawn closes with a quick note that Glen Helen is the largest outdoor music venue in the United States.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 15 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain. This week’s episode was recorded in pieces between busy schedules, so expect real emotion and some sharp turns in tone—but every moment is sincere.
Episode Highlights
Mountain Life & Rooster Overtime
Shawn and Bobby kick things off at sunrise with a rooster cameo and talk about Bobby’s new life in the San Bernardino Mountains—snow chains, 2.5-hour commutes, and the joy of watching his kids roam, explore, and adventure through the forest like it’s their own backyard wilderness.
Honoring Deputy Nunez & Deputy MacKay
Ryan Beckers joins Shawn to reflect on Deputy Andrew Nunez’s funeral, the moment the folded flag is handed to the family, and what happens after the ceremony is over. Shawn also remembers his friend Deputy Jeremiah MacKay, killed during the Chris Dorner manhunt, and the Lake Arrowhead statue that keeps his memory alive.
Desert Call from a Horror Movie
Shawn and Battalion Chief Bill Mahan recall a wild call in the El Mirage desert—tattered white dresses, wild dogs, off-grid trailers, twin bearded brothers, and one unforgettable nighttime scene.
Dispatch & Tech: Keeping Crews Safer
Bill Mahan explains new tablet life-hazard alerts for things like downed power lines and hidden pools, plus his hobby running a museum-quality model railroad.
Tech Corner: Drones, ROVs & DFR
Jeff Alexy checks in with updates on heavy-lift drones, underwater ROVs with sonar, and the upcoming Drone First Responder (DFR) program aimed at keeping engines off nuisance calls and getting eyes on incidents early.
Awards & Helmet Cams
The media team racks up Golden Arrowhead Awards, and Bobby thanks firefighters for their helmet-cam footage that lets the public see interior, exterior, and roof ops like never before.
And of course, the Joke of the Day:
“Why do drones get so many pictures of mermaids? Because they’re aerial photographers.”
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 14 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
Episode Highlights:
Inside the Shops: Fleet, Fabrication, and Fire Trucks
Dale explains the difference between the D Street and Lena shops and how the team manages repairs, parts, and fabrication for a growing fleet.
The crew gets a behind-the-scenes look at the new K1 80 fire engines—including what sets the West Coast spec apart from its East Coast counterpart.
Learn how standardization could revolutionize fleet management—and why local terrain and tradition still matter.
Dale reveals the story behind the department’s signature “Chrysler Red” paint chip—and why it’s guarded like treasure.
The team discusses how careful driving and daily inspections help extend vehicle life and reduce costly repairs.
Fire Department Features
Dale shares how the shop will soon be fully staffed for the first time in 10 years—a huge milestone for the fleet team.
The discussion covers how the department is preparing snow cats and mountain utilities ahead of winter, ensuring readiness for snow season.
Crews also talk about new reserve rigs and how smart scheduling and preventative maintenance keep apparatus in service longer.
Tech Corner: Low-Tech Forestry with High Impact
PIO’s Tech Corner goes “low-tech” this episode with Wildland Fuels Specialist Jared Dowden, who introduces listeners to the Forestry Challenge—an academic competition where high school students measure and analyze forest data using traditional tools.
Learn how the program has expanded statewide since 2003 and now brings 100–200 students annually to the San Bernardino Mountains for hands-on forestry science.
Jared explains how old-school field methods meet modern environmental data collection to inspire the next generation of conservationists.
Joke of the Day
Dale: “I caught my daughter chewing on an extension cord—so I grounded her. She’s conducting herself properly now, but the whole situation was shocking.”
Jared adds a forestry twist:
“How can you identify a dogwood tree? By its bark.”
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
In this special episode of the PIO Podcast, host PIO Shawn Millerick is joined by Fire Chief Dan Munsey to discuss the tragic loss of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Nunez, who was killed in the line of duty in Rancho Cucamonga.
Chief Munsey shares his reflections on the close bond between County Fire and the Sheriff’s Department, the emotional impact of such events on first responders, and the importance of peer support and behavioral health programs for those who serve.
They discuss how County Fire’s peer support teams, chaplains, and comfort dogs stand ready to help both firefighters and law enforcement members process trauma and find strength in community.
For those who may be struggling to process this incident, please reach out to Captain Jeremy Pendergraft and the Care Team or your supervisor. They will put you in touch with resources to help.
We’re back with Episode 12 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
EOC and Division Updates: Host Shawn Millerick talks with Division Chief Bob Evans and Battalion Chief Chris Gorman. Evans shares insights from his role in the county’s Emergency Operations Center, while Gorman highlights Fontana projects including new engines, the “Black Pearl” donation to Mexicali, Rosena Ranch Station 3 with an SO substation, and plans for a new training tower and classroom.
Crew Reflections: Updates on the new admin building, the 9/11 memorial, the recruit academy, and leadership advice for new firefighters.
Tech Spotlight: Stuart Landesberg from Seneca Drones showcases autonomous suppression copters using AI and thermal sensors for rapid early attack.a
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 11 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
In this episode:
On the Road with New Rigs: Captain Jeff Schneider calls in from South Dakota where the apparatus committee is inspecting the department’s new Type 1 fire engines. Hear how the team makes sure each rig is ready for service and how they will strengthen the reserve fleet.
Crew Reflections and Voices from the Field: Conversations with Captain Andrew Bonhus, new paramedic Anthony Bazzo, and Ethan Swergold from Seneca Drones. From mentorship to new technology, the crew talks about growth and collaboration in the fire service.
Tech Spotlight: A preview of Seneca Drones’ upcoming demo and how aerial tools can expand safety and awareness on the fireground.
From pumpkin spice fun to serious inspections, the message stays the same: prepare, adapt, and take care of your team. Plus the Joke of the Day and This Day in History.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 10 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast! Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
In this episode:
Leadership on the Road: The crew visits the George Washington Leadership Institute and Gettysburg’s Higher Ground Program, exploring decision making, training for the unexpected, and how strong communication and trust shape great teams.
Crew Reflections and Tech Spotlight: Highlights from field interviews on growth, mentorship, and collaboration with multiple employees from SBCoFD
A quick look at Quake Technologies’ AI firefighter helmet with hands-free augmented vision and real-time Mayday alerts designed to enhance safety on the fireground.
From historic battlefields to modern firegrounds, the lessons remain the same: lead with purpose, prepare for adversity, and take care of your people. Plus, the Joke of the Day, and This Day in History.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 9 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
In this episode:
Host Shawn Millerick checks in from Mount Vernon, Virginia, but the focus is on San Bernardino County Fire’s recent Tesla First Responder Training at the ARFF Training Center. Firefighters spent two days learning how to safely handle Tesla vehicles, batteries, and solar systems in real world emergencies.
Shawn interviews Victor from Tesla, who shares his journey from electrician to Tesla’s Codes and Standards team, along with behind the scenes stories from installing Solar Roofs for VIPs including Elon Musk to developing training tools like VR simulations for first responders.
Plus, the Joke of the Day, This Day in History, and Tech Corner featuring safety resources for firefighters.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 8 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
In this episode:
From San Bernardino International Airport, Captain Jay Dimoff of Station 233 shares his 26-year fire service journey and how his ties to San Felipe, Mexico inspired decades of cross-border donations of fire engines, ambulances, and equipment.
The team also dives into the behind the scenes logistics of getting retired rigs across the border, the role of community groups like the Fontana Rotary, and why outfitting firefighters with the right tools is more than just equipment, it is about dignity and service.
Captain Trent Blanchard from Station 71 calls in to talk Tech Corner, where he breaks down the evolution from hydraulic “line tools” to battery powered extrication gear and why this change matters on scene.
Plus, the Joke of the Day, This Day in History, and San Bernardino County Fun Facts.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 7 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
In this episode:
Division Chief Jim Topoleski joins the crew to share his fire service origin story, his decades-long career path through Redlands and Cal Fire, and his perspective on why San Bernardino County Fire offers “a firefighter’s dream” with its scope of calls, tools, and opportunities.
The team dives into incident management teams, why they matter, how SBCoFD is building capacity for the future, and how any firefighter, regardless of rank, can get involved in complex incident response.
Special guest Ryan Vaccaro calls in with a South Desert update, covering Joshua Tree rescues, Miracle League baseball for kids with disabilities, and progress on the long-awaited Station 41 rebuild.
Plus, the Joke of the Day, This Day in History, a quick Tech Corner spotlight on lightning detection systems rolling out across the county, and updates from our fire crews.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 6 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast!
Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
In this episode:
Deputy Fire Marshal Adam Panos is joined by EMS Division Chief Mike O'Bier and Fuels Specialist Jarrod Dowden. Together, they highlight recent fire incidents, community safety concerns, and behind-the-scenes coordination efforts.
The crew discusses the importance of the weekly Situation Report and how staff and the public can access updates through Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and department email links.
Technology takes the spotlight, with insights on extended reality for firefighter training, wireless radio innovations, and upcoming demonstrations of cutting-edge thermal imaging equipment at the Training Center.
The team also reflects on the 9/11 memorial beam now permanently installed in Fontana, department fleet updates, and the continued push for EMS preceptors.
Plus, you’ll hear the return of “This Day in History,” and a look at how San Bernardino County Fire is preparing for the future with its strategic and technology plans.
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 5 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast! Host Captain Shawn Millerick and team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
In this episode:
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 4 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast! Host Captain Shawn Millerick and team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.
In this episode:
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
We’re back with Episode 3 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast! Host Captain Shawn Millerick and team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain, and this time with dirt still on their boots after returning straight from a San Bernardino fire.
In this episode:
Links Mentioned in the Episode:
Episode 2 heads to the mountains as host Shawn Millerick covers the 1,069-acre Gold Fire, the Blue Envelope program with K9 handler Shawn Reiss, cutting-edge fire robotics with Jeff Alexy, and arson investigations with Brian Headley. We also dive into fireworks busts, exclusive Tesla training for SBCoFD, and a few surprise guests.
In our very first episode of the San Bernardino County Fire Connection Podcast, host PIO Shawn Millerick welcomes listeners to the new Tippecanoe HQ studio . He’s joined by Division Chief Joe Barna to cover everything from analytics, staffing, and apparatus updates to insight on strike teams, hand crews, and what the County Duty Chief (CDC) role really means. Plus, updates from stations 164 and 96, and the story behind that “intense” circus fire joke.
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