Winter Storm in Big Bear Valley

February 2023​

Photo courtesy of Big Bear Fire Department, 2023 


Big Bear Lake, CA/February 24, 2023___

With the potential for this week’s storm bringing snow measured in feet, rather than inches, your Big Bear Fire Department has been working to be proactive by taking various measures to protect and fsupport the community.  A request has been made and approved for Cal Fire CDC Hand Crews to come up the mountain to assist Big Bear Fire Crews with various snow removal and other preparations throughout the City of Big Bear Lake and Big Bear City communities. 

The Big Bear Fire Department has also secured through the State Office of Emergency Services, a “Pre-Position” of additional personnel to be staffed at our local stations, comprised of Big Bear Firefighters.  These Firefighters will staff one additional 911 response unit, as well as the Department’s Snow-Cat.  With these additional units staffed and ready, the Big Bear Fire Department is better prepared to address the potential challenges that come with a storm of this magnitude.  These additional firefighter positions will be reassessed frequently, as the reports indicate the storm’s passage during the weekend overnight hours.  Additional management action decisions will be based on actual community impacts that are experienced through the duration of this storm.

With storms like this, the Department asks the community to assist in keeping fire hydrants clear of snow. In the event of a fire, it is imperative that the fire department gain access to a fire hydrant water supply as quickly as possible, to prevent the loss of life and property. Residents and business owners can adopt a hydrant to make sure that the hydrant is easily accessible throughout the year. To adopt a hydrant, visit our website at www.bigbearfire.org

The Big Bear Fire Department thanks the community for hosting the with lodging and food. This generosity is the cornerstone of what this community has always done, and continues to do, by showing a true desire to help in times of need. 

About Big Bear Fire Department:

Big Bear Fire Authority was formed under a Joint Powers Agreement in 2012 combining Big Bear Lake Fire Protection District and Big Bear City Fire Department, now commonly known as Big Bear Fire Department. Since its inception, Big Bear Fire Department is committed to providing Big Bear Valley with professional fire, medical and emergency services “Protecting Lives and Property,” with timely response to fire and medical emergencies.