The Community Risk Reduction / Fire Prevention Division protects the City of Merced by preventing fires and other hazardous conditions through:

Education:  An educated and well-trained workforce that teaches prevention and what to do in the event of a fire.

Engineering: Our Fire Inspectors work in tandem with the Development Services team members to design and build structures that are safe from fire. Use the best building practices and the latest technology to resist or prevent great loss from fire and other emergencies.

Enforcement: While buildings are being designed and built, our Fire Inspectors work in tandem with our Development Services team members to ensure that the work is done in compliance with current codes and standards. Upon construction completion, fire and life safety codes will be followed and enforced.

Economic Incentives: With a focus on safety and hazard reduction, issue penalties and fines for non-compliance to encourage behavior change.

Emergency Response: Assessment of community risk through an analysis of emergency response resources and hazards. This process ensures we are making the best use of resources aimed at reducing the impact of incidents in our community. We will be better prepared to understand where and what types of resources we will need in the future.

Empowerment: An environment of awareness and collaboration with our community to proactively reduce risk. Through outreach and information sharing, we can improve community relations and inspire a culture of safety. This is accomplished through sharing our collective progress, real-time data, and performance-based goals to address our community's specific needs.