ON BUSINESS SAFETY
In the active and developing City of El Cajon, the Heartland Fire & Rescue Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) stands as a beacon of support for business owners and developers, ensuring a safe and prosperous environment for their ventures. Established in 2010, Heartland Fire & Rescue is a collaboration between the Cities of El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove, designed to provide consolidated fire services, including fire protection, fire prevention, emergency medical services, and community emergency preparedness. At its core, the mission of Heartland Fire & Rescue is to create safe communities through exceptional and professional service. A significant aspect of fulfilling this mission lies in the support provided to the local business community. This support begins with the Fire Prevention Division, which ensures that proposed projects and developments are safe and successful from the outset. The Fire Prevention Division offers pre-development discussions and meetings with business owners and developers. This proactive approach
helps address potential fire safety concerns and ensures that projects adhere to fire safety codes and regulations before construction begins. By engaging in these early-stage consultations, the Fire Prevention Division can provide valuable insights contributing to the project's safety and success. Once a project is in the development phase, Heartland Fire & Rescue continues assistance through plan review services and new construction inspections. This thorough evaluation process identifies any fire hazards or potential risks, providing constructive feedback to enhance the safety measures in the building design. Consequently, this ensures that the structure will be prepared to face any unforeseen challenges effectively. As a business nears its completion and prepares to open its doors to the public, Heartland Fire & Rescue will conduct fire inspection services. These inspections are critical in promoting a safe and timely opening for the business. The Fire Prevention Division plays a vital role in safeguarding
employees, customers, and the community by addressing any remaining safety concerns before the company starts operating. Moreover, Heartland Fire & Rescue's dedication to the business community does not end there. Once a business is operational, the Fire Prevention Division conducts annual operating permit fire safety inspections. These regular inspections ensure ongoing compliance with fire safety standards and guarantee a safe environment for employees and customers. The reviews significantly prevent accidents and liabilities that could jeopardize business continuity by mitigating potential safety risks and identifying unsafe conditions. In recognition of its outstanding preparedness for structural fire incidents, Heartland Fire & Rescue has achieved the highest possible rating from the Insurance Services Organization (ISO) - a prestigious accomplishment. This rating is a testament to the department's commitment to excellence and ability to respond promptly and
efficiently to fire emergencies. In combination with automatic aid provided by other East County fire departments, Heartland Fire & Rescue can mobilize a well- trained team of firefighters to respond rapidly to fire incidents anywhere in El Cajon. This rapid response significantly limits fire spread and damage, ensuring less monetary loss for businesses, residents, and building owners and a quicker return to normal operations. The Heartland Fire & Rescue JPA is a remarkable example of cooperation and dedication to public safety and the local
business community. By providing comprehensive
fire prevention services, swift firefighting response, and a commitment to ongoing safety inspections, Heartland Fire & Rescue plays a pivotal role in empowering business owners and developers to succeed in El Cajon. As the City continues to thrive, the partnership between Heartland Fire & Rescue and the business community remains essential in securing a prosperous future for all in El Cajon.
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AUTUMN ISSUE 2023 • MY EL CAJON
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