Less is more — and not just in golf.
Skagit County Fire District 13’s CARES program has sharply reduced 911 calls by helping frequent users avoid emergencies through preventative care.
At the May 15 commissioners meeting, Capt. Andrew Ferrell reported significant drops in emergency calls from six addresses since the program launched two years ago. One home with 15 calls and three ER transports in 2024 has had none in 2025. The six homes combined have had only two ER transports this year.
CARES — Community Assistance, Referral, and Education Services — serves at-risk residents in rural La Conner and the Swinomish Reservation. The team works with the Didgwalic Wellness Center and Helping Hands Food Bank and continues the outreach started by the “Good Morning, District 13” program.
By identifying and addressing health and safety needs early, CARES is helping residents stay well and easing the burden on emergency services.
In other Fire District #13 News
- The CARES team oversaw installation of nine smoke detectors in April.
- Weiss and Shellhamer said District 13 is still on schedule to receive delivery in August on a new tender truck to replace a 35-year-old rig. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends placing trucks in reserve after 20 years and retiring them at 25 years.
- District 13 will hold a series of events in June to provide information about current services, equipment, mission, and vision, and to solicit feedback from the community about needs.
Open House Schedule
6 p.m. June 4 at the Snee-Oosh Road station
6 p.m. June 11 at the Shelter Bay Clubhouse
6 p.m. June 18 at the Summit Park station
Bill Reynolds: bill@laconnercommunitynews.org. Bill is a general assignment reporter who covers Town government, schools, and spot news.
