Cal Fire’s Office of the State Fire Marshal, or OSFM, is joining fire departments and safety organizations nationwide in recognizing Community Risk Reduction, or CRR, Week.

Taking place Jan. 19 to 26, this annual campaign emphasizes the vital role CRR plays in protecting lives, property, and the environment.

Community risk reduction is a proactive approach that identifies local risks and implements strategies to prevent emergencies before they occur. 

By integrating CRR principles into daily operations, fire departments can improve public safety, reduce preventable incidents and strengthen community resilience.

“Community risk reduction is about more than responding to emergencies — it’s about preventing them,” said Chief Daniel Berlant, California State fire marshal. “When we work together to identify risks and take action, we save lives, protect property, and create safer communities for everyone.”

CRR strategies are built around the “Five Es”:

• Education – Raising awareness and promoting fire-safe behaviors.
• Engineering – Designing safer environments and technologies.
• Enforcement – Ensuring compliance with fire and life safety codes.
• Emergency Response – Delivering timely and effective assistance.
• Economic Incentives – Encouraging risk-reduction through grants and programs.

No matter the size or location of a fire department, CRR provides tools to address unique community risks and foster collaboration among stakeholders.

Cal Fire–OSFM actively supports CRR by providing educational resources, supporting enforcement programs, and fostering partnerships that enhance fire prevention statewide.

To learn more about Community Risk Reduction and how Cal Fire–OSFM is involved, visit the Community Risk Reduction Resource Hub.