Western Arizona Fire Marshals' Association

03/04/2026

01/26/2026

39th Annual Characterization & CRR on the River Conference Unites Agencies for Fire and Life Safety Education

Last week, the 39th Annual Characterization Conference brought together dedicated professionals from Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, Texas, and Minnesota for a week-long immersive experience focused on advancing fire and life safety education. Hosted by the Western Arizona Fire Marshal's Association (WAFMA) and generously sponsored by the Anderson Ford Bullhead City, the event provided a dynamic platform for agencies to collaborate and enhance their outreach efforts.

Attendees participated in a variety of workshops, discussions, and hands-on activities aimed at improving how fire and life safety messages are conveyed, not only to youth but to entire communities spanning all ages. This comprehensive approach ensures that safety education resonates broadly and effectively. Barbie Barrett, President of WAFMA, expressed deep gratitude to Anderson Ford Bullhead City and the Anderson Auto Group Fieldhouse for their continued sponsorship, recognizing their critical role in enabling the conference’s success. Barrett also thanked all attendees for their commitment, underscoring that collective effort and shared knowledge remain essential in fostering safer communities across the region.

The 2026 Characterization & CRR on the River Conference continues its proud tradition of uniting agencies, empowering educators, and championing the critical mission of fire and life safety education.

08/04/2025

🔥 Extreme Heat Watch in Effect Later This Week 🔥

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch later this week for Southern Mohave County, Southern San Bernardino County, and the lower Colorado River Valley. Temps are expected to soar above 115°F in some areas, with dangerously hot conditions.

Please take precautions to stay safe:
☀️ Limit time outdoors, especially midday
💧 Stay hydrated — drink plenty of water
🧓 Check on elderly neighbors, children, and pets
🚗 Never leave anyone in a parked car
🏠 Seek out air-conditioned spaces when possible

Prevention is the best protection.

Let’s all do our part to stay safe and cool.

Click this link for more information: https://www.ready.gov/heat

03/13/2025

To Whom It May Concern,
I am reaching out to request your support in the effort to reopen the National Fire Academy (NFA) and restore its critical training programs. The NFA has been instrumental in developing highly skilled fire service professionals, particularly for rural and underserved departments that rely on its top-tier training and leadership development. Its courses provide invaluable knowledge, hands-on experience, and the opportunity to build a strong network of peers from across the country.

The closure of the NFA has created a significant gap in fire service education, impacting firefighters and emergency responders who depend on its training to enhance their skills and advance their careers. By reopening the NFA, we can ensure that future generations of fire service professionals continue to receive the highest quality education, ultimately strengthening emergency response efforts nationwide.
I urge you to take a few moments to complete the survey linked below to demonstrate your support for reopening the NFA. Your input is crucial in showing the widespread need for this essential institution and its programs.

https://cfsi.org/nfa-stories/

Thank you for your time and dedication to the fire service. Together, we can make a difference in ensuring the continued success of the National Fire Academy and the safety of our communities.

If you could help us spread the word on social media, that would be great!

Sincerely,

Barbie Barrett, President
WAFMA

03/03/2025

WAFMA is hosting a CO2 Monitoring System class on Tuesday, March 4th. The class is FREE and lunch is included.

We are proud to announce that WAFMA is now an ICC Preferred Provider. We will be offering trainings with ICC CEUs at our meetings.

Check out our website for more information: https://wafma.wildapricot.org/event-6098223

01/23/2025

A few snap shots from day two - how can you not smile looking at these amazing people. 🤡

01/22/2025

What an amazing first day. So many great programs and information to help us grow our Fire Prevention programs. Here’s a quick snap shot from yesterday -music work shop, prop building , Improv & team building,and beginning make- up. Thank you to all of our instructor’s you are all amazing!

01/22/2025

Check out these snap shots from last nights shenanigans! Such a fun & crazy group of people (Friends). 🤡🎉🎶🎤😂