Retired Fire Captain Steve Kaufmann will inform members and guests of what to expect during the first 12-72 hours of a major disaster. 
Then Capt. Kaufmann will walk members through how to prepare their family and themselves for California’s next disaster.
Finally Capt. Kaufmann will share some personal stories of exceptional humanity he has witnessed during some of these disasters including but not limited to the Soberanes Fire, Thomas Fire, Camp Fire, North Complex Fire and Lahaina Fire.
Steve Kaufmann has had an incredible career in public service, starting as an EMT at just 18 years old and eventually retiring as a Fire Captain after 38 years. His journey included completing paramedic school in 1994, joining the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection as a seasonal firefighter, and then landing a permanent position with the Ventura County Fire Department. Over his career, he rose through the ranks, serving on the CAL FIRE Incident Management Team 4 for eleven years as the lead Public Information Officer and responding to over 32 disasters in California and Hawaii. Captain Kaufmann’s dedication was recognized with numerous awards, including two Firefighter of the Year honors, a commendation from the Siskiyou County Sheriff and the CAL FIRE Director’s Award in 2020 for his efforts during the fire siege. He retired in February 2024, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service.