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Orange County Firefighters

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Official Instagram of the Orange County Professional Firefighters. "There when you need us most”

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Two years ago, on September 19, 2024, eight members of the OCFA Handcrew were involved in a devastating rollover crash in Irvine while returning from the Airport Fire. All eight were injured—six critically.

In the two years since, we have witnessed extraordinary courage and resilience from our injured members, the Santiago Crew, and the entire Handcrew program. No journey has been more inspiring than that of Squad Boss Matt Nichols.

Matt suffered life-threatening injuries, endured extended hospital stays, and has faced countless hours of intensive therapy. His prognosis was once uncertain, but through incredible courage, grit, and determination, he continues to defy the odds and make progress.

At the heart of Matt’s recovery is Carissa, who has stood beside him every step of the way. As both his partner and caregiver, she has supported his healing while caring for their young son—providing unwavering strength and stability through unimaginable hardship.

Matt’s fight, his family’s devotion, and the steadfast support of our fire service family are powerful reminders of hope, perseverance, and what it means to never leave a brother behind. His recovery journey continues, and so does our commitment to standing with him.

The Orange County Professional Firefighters Association, Local 3631, together with the Orange County Fire Authority, remains committed to supporting Matt, his family, and all our injured members. The recovery fund helps provide the resources they need as they continue rebuilding their lives.

On this two-year anniversary, we remain deeply grateful for the love and support shown by our community. Please continue to keep our firefighters and their families in your prayers—and, if you are able, consider making a donation.

Every contribution makes a difference. Thank you for continuing to stand with Matt, his family, and all our injured brothers.

🔥 Donate through the link in our bio or below:
https://tinyurl.com/FFRF3631

#OCFirefighters #FireStrong #UnionStrong #NeverForgotten taken in OC Firefighters, Local 3631 by @ocfirefighters

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16 days ago

Today, OCFA responded to a complex trench rescue in the City of Irvine after a 2,000-pound chunk of dirt collapsed, trapping a man by both lower legs.

Our four specialized technical rescue trucks quickly went to work—building a shoring system to stabilize the trench and prevent further collapse. While teams dug the man free, OCFA paramedics treated him for suspected crush injuries in the trench and continued advanced life support en route to a local trauma center.

This incident is a powerful reminder of why it’s critical that OCFA is an all-risk agency—meaning we don’t just fight fires. We train and prepare for all types of emergencies—from wildfires to hazardous materials, medical calls to complex technical rescues like this one.

Because every second counts—and lives depend on it.

#OCFA #TechnicalRescue #TrenchRescue #AllRiskAgency #OCFirefighters #OrangeCountyFire #PublicSafety #Firefighters #AlwaysReady #FirstResponders taken in OC Firefighters, Local 3631 by @ocfirefighters

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a year ago

The Orange County Fire Authority and Orange County Professional Firefighters Local 3631 honor the life and service of Captain Thomas O. Wall on this anniversary of his Line of Duty Death on October 5, 1998. Thomas and his family are forever in our hearts. taken in OC Firefighters, Local 3631 by @ocfirefighters

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18 hours ago

The Orange County Fire Authority and Orange County Professional Firefighters Local 3631 honor the life and service of Fire Captain Dennis Donelson on this anniversary of his Line of Duty Death on October 4, 1986. Dennis and his family are forever in our hearts. by @ocfirefighters

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2 days ago

L O R N A • I C

Garden Grove 🇺🇸

**FULL COLLECTION AVL at www.714firephoto.com** taken in Garden Grove, California by @ocfirefighters

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7 days ago

Lorna IC Part 3 | Garden Grove, CA (9/23/26)

@ocfirefighters @ocfadivision1 #firefighters #firstresponders #residentialfire #gardengrove #photography taken in Garden Grove, California by @ocfirefighters

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7 days ago

Gilbert IC

OCFA D1 (Garden Grove) by @ocfirefighters

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7 days ago

Lorna IC

OCFA D1 (Garden Grove) by @ocfirefighters

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9 days ago

Here’s a first look at Burning the Miles.

For two years, we followed this story. More than 20 firefighters across three states. Seven riders. 500 miles down the California coast.

We tackle some heavy shit in this film. PTSD. Trauma. Family. Suicide. Brotherhood. What the job takes from you and what it takes to find your way back.

But through all of it, there’s the ride.

The miles keep moving. The guys keep laughing. They suffer. They talk. They get back on the bike.

This five-minute sneak peek is just a piece of what we’ve captured.

The final edit is around the corner and we’re almost there.

Please share this. Tag a firefighter. Tag a family member. Tag someone who needs to know this film is coming.

Help us get the word out.

The ride is over.

The story isn’t.

Almost there.

#BurningTheMiles #FirefighterMentalHealth #FirefighterWellness #FireService #firstresponders by @ocfirefighters

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10 days ago

Attached carport fire.
Lorna IC | Garden Grove, CA (9/23/26)

@ocfirefighters @ocfadivision1 #firefighters #firstresponders #residentialfire #gardengrove #photography taken in Garden Grove, California by @ocfirefighters

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11 days ago

Meet the collection we designed alongside the Fallen Firefighter Relief Fund to honor the men and women who serve, and to support firefighters and their families in times of need.

This limited edition release is going fast. 25% of every purchase goes to @fallenfirefighterrelieffund. Link in bio to shop. by @ocfirefighters

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11 days ago

We're proud to introduce the Nomadix x Fallen Firefighter Relief Fund Collection, designed to honor the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe.

Each piece is a way to stand behind firefighters and all first responders. 25% of every purchase goes directly to @fallenfirefighterrelieffund, helping firefighters and their families across the country when they need it most.

Link in bio to shop and give back.

🎨: Collection designed by @domfishh @planetpeoplestudio by @ocfirefighters

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12 days ago