Guest Essay | Pasadena Fire Chief Chad Augustin: Pasadena’s Strength Lies in Its People

As we reflect on the events of the Eaton Fire, one thing is clear – Pasadena’s strength lies in its people.  I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to our firefighters and first responders who worked tirelessly to contain the fire and keep our City safe.  Their bravery and skill in the face of challenging conditions are nothing short of extraordinary.

I want to acknowledge the incredible spirit of our community.  Whether it was neighbors checking on each other, sharing resources, or simply offering words of support, your actions embody the strength and unity that make Pasadena such a special place to call home.

I would also like to thank the entire City Executive Leadership Team (ELT) for their incredible leadership over the past three weeks.  Under the stewardship of City Manager Márquez, each of Pasadena’s Department Leadership and their staff worked tirelessly to ensure our community received the support and services necessary.  Our Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was staffed around the clock to assist our responders working directly in the field.

Moving forward, we must prepare for the potential challenges that follow wildfires, including the risk of mud and debris flows.  Here are a few important tips to help you stay safe:

• Stay informed: Keep an eye on weather updates and follow any alerts or evacuation notices.
• Be prepared: Clear drains and gutters and have a Go Bag ready in case you need to leave quickly.
• Drive with caution: Avoid driving through flooded or debris-filled roads.

The Pasadena Fire Department will continue to monitor conditions and work closely with other agencies to keep our community safe.  Thank you for your resilience and cooperation during this time.