Station 15 – south bay
Formerly known as the South Bay Fire Department, South Bay Station 15 became part of the CAL FIRE/San Luis Obispo County Fire Department system through a fire protection contract established in 2004. Located in the community of Los Osos, Station 15 provides fire protection and emergency response services to approximately 15,000 residents in Los Osos and Baywood Park.
Station 15 delivers a high level of emergency medical service through a fire-based paramedic program, with a minimum of two licensed paramedics assigned to duty at all times. Daily staffing consists of a Fire Captain, two Fire Apparatus Engineers, and a Reserve Firefighter, ensuring a rapid and effective response to a wide variety of emergencies. This integrated staffing model provides advanced life support capabilities while maintaining comprehensive fire and rescue response services throughout the community.
Located approximately 15 miles west of San Luis Obispo along the Pacific Coast, Station 15 serves a diverse response area that includes residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, commercial districts, and recreational facilities. One of the station’s most significant response areas is Montana de Oro State Park, a popular destination known for its rugged coastline, scenic trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities, including surfing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and ocean diving.
To address the unique challenges associated with these activities, Station 15 operates Medic Rescue 15, a Type III rescue vehicle equipped with specialized rescue equipment including high-angle rope rescue systems, vehicle extrication tools, water rescue equipment, and scene lighting. The station also utilizes Boat 15, an 11-foot Yamaha Rescue Water Craft, providing rapid access to coastal and marine emergencies throughout the area.
Station 15 is further supported by a Reserve Firefighter Program consisting of 15 members who complete extensive training and regularly staff operational shifts alongside career personnel. This program enhances emergency response capabilities and provides additional staffing resources to support the station’s all-risk mission.
Through its combination of advanced medical services, specialized rescue resources, and highly trained personnel, South Bay Station 15 plays a critical role in protecting the residents, visitors, and natural resources of the South Coast region.