Fire Department Events

CERT Academy 

The city offers a CERT Academy once a year in a joint partnership with Escondido Fire Department. The classes are held in San Marcos and there is no cost to attend. Classes range from 4 hour to 8 hour commitments, one or two days a week in the evening or on the weekend, for three weeks. After successful completion of the academy each member is offered the opportunity to join the San Marcos CERT team. To join you must be over 18 and a resident of San Marcos and pass a background check.

CERT is an acronym that stands for Community Emergency Response Team. The program is designed to help you protect yourself, family and neighbors in the event of a disaster or emergency. It is a nationwide program with local teams all over the country. The San Marcos CERT program has 100 members that are available to assist first responders and the City in the event of a disaster. The team has quarterly training and a drill once a year to keep their skills proficient. 

More information

Community Preparedness Fair

The Community Preparedness Fair in recognition of National Preparedness Month is takin place on September 12, 2026 from 9:00AM to 12:30PM at the San Marcos Community Center located at 1 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069. This event will bring together residents, local agencies, and preparedness partners to promote safety, resilience, and readiness. 

Community CPR

The San Marcos Fire Department offers CPR classes to the public on specific Saturdays throughout the calendar year. This class is for basic adult, child, and infant CPR only (first aid is not included). This is NOT a health provider certification class. Upon completion of the course, all participants will receive a CPR certification that will be valid for two years.

Class schedule and more information

Wildfire Preparedness Fair 

Held annually in May, the fair provides education and resources on protecting your family and property from wildfire. Date for the 2027 Wildfire Preparedness Fair TBD.

Fire Department Open House

Held annually in October, the SMFD open house features displays, fire prevention education and activities for children. This years Open House will be held on Saturday October 3, 2026.

The event is held at San Marcos Fire Station 1 located at 180 W. Mission Rd. Event hours will be from 10:00am to 2:00pm. For additional information please call Fire Administration: (760)744-1050 Ext. 3400