09 January 2026
Around the Cracker Barrel - Small Tasks, Big Impact: The Santa Rita Fire Corps Story (Aired 01/09/2026)
Around the Cracker Barrel
About
This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, Guy Atchley is joined by Kevin McNichols, Volunteer Coordinator for the Santa Rita Fire District and the Santa Rita Fire Corps, for an in-depth conversation about the vital role volunteers play in keeping the Green Valley and Sahuarita communities safe.
McNichols explains how Fire Corps volunteers support firefighters and first responders by handling essential non-emergency tasks — from changing smoke alarm batteries and installing residential lock boxes, to running inter-station mail, assisting with training exercises, and supporting public education programs. These efforts allow fire crews to remain ready and available for emergencies while improving overall community safety.
The discussion also highlights the work of CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) volunteers, who help neighborhoods prepare for disasters, promote Firewise programs to reduce wildfire risk, and provide CPR and AED refresher training throughout the community. The concept of “normalcy bias” is explored, emphasizing why preparation and awareness are critical even in seemingly low-risk environments.
Listeners learn how to get involved, the flexible time commitment required, and the wide range of skills volunteers can contribute — whether in the field, in schools, or behind the scenes. McNichols also shares practical safety tips, explains how emergency responses work on I-19, and encourages residents to take advantage of free safety resources offered by the fire district.
A valuable and informative episode that showcases community service, preparedness, and the people working every day to protect Southern Arizona. To Volunteer Call 520-393-7505
McNichols explains how Fire Corps volunteers support firefighters and first responders by handling essential non-emergency tasks — from changing smoke alarm batteries and installing residential lock boxes, to running inter-station mail, assisting with training exercises, and supporting public education programs. These efforts allow fire crews to remain ready and available for emergencies while improving overall community safety.
The discussion also highlights the work of CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) volunteers, who help neighborhoods prepare for disasters, promote Firewise programs to reduce wildfire risk, and provide CPR and AED refresher training throughout the community. The concept of “normalcy bias” is explored, emphasizing why preparation and awareness are critical even in seemingly low-risk environments.
Listeners learn how to get involved, the flexible time commitment required, and the wide range of skills volunteers can contribute — whether in the field, in schools, or behind the scenes. McNichols also shares practical safety tips, explains how emergency responses work on I-19, and encourages residents to take advantage of free safety resources offered by the fire district.
A valuable and informative episode that showcases community service, preparedness, and the people working every day to protect Southern Arizona. To Volunteer Call 520-393-7505