Fire sirens online

Hear a siren wailing? Check out the Fire District’s new Web site with its dynamic interface designed to engage people of all ages.

This is just one of the great features on the brand new Web site for the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, said Fire Chief Richard Price.

The site went live today and is the result of a community survey to find out what residents wanted and would find helpful.

“We hope everyone enjoys the updated site and we encourage users to let us know what they think.” said Price.

He was most enthusiastic about the fact that each department can update its own section rather than going through a Web master, which will help keep the site updated.

Users can zoom in on live incidents using one of the district’s two new webcams. Another new feature is the ability sign up to receive Fire District announcements and job opportunities.

The Web site also highlights upcoming classes for the community including the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and CPR.

“The Fire Prevention pages will be very useful for business owners, contractors and those seeking permits,” said Fire Marshal Christina Jamison, explaining that forms can be downloaded from the site.

Clearly marked sections give details on emergency services, information about the district, recent news, fire prevention, community outreach and employment opportunities. There is also a Kids Corner and Live Dispatch. Each page has high quality photographs of the San Ramon Valley.

“Please take time to explore the site,” Chief Price said. “There is a lot to see here.”

He was also proud of the new Web address for the Fire District – www.firedepartment.org – although the old address (www.srvfire.ca.gov/) still works. “We wanted to make our Web site address as easy to remember as it is to use,” he said.

Check it out now – don’t wait for the sirens to wail.