Fire District 3
Clark County Fire District 3 provides fire and life safety services to 46,000 people in east Clark County, including the City of Battle Ground. We are a combination department with full-time and volunteer emergency personnel. Our highly-trained firefighters and emergency medical technicians responded to 5,175 calls last year. Our core values are professionalism, safety, teamwork, integrity, and community. Considering joining our dedicated team, or learn more below:
Message from Fire Chief Chris Drone
Welcome to Clark County Fire District 3 — and thank you for considering joining our team.
We’re proud to serve a diverse and growing region that blends the challenges of both urban and rural firefighting. Here, our firefighters respond to a wide range of calls — from structure fires and EMS to wildland mobilizations and technical rescues. Whether operating a ladder truck or training for the next high-risk scenario, our crews are always sharpening their skills and rising to the occasion.
But more than anything, we believe culture matters. One of our firefighters said it best: “It’s the people. It’s like going to work with your best friends and getting to do what you love.”
That simple truth reflects the camaraderie, professionalism, and passion that define life at Fire District 3.
We’re also fortunate to serve a community that deeply values and supports its fire department. Whether it’s through passing funding measures, showing up at community events, or simply waving from the front porch, the people we serve remind us every day why this work matters.
In invite you to learn more about Fire District 3 and how we’re working every day to keep our community safe. Connect with us at upcoming events, or reach out to us at info@fire3.org.
– Fire Chief Chris Drone
In Memoriam: Retired Fire Chief Don L. Breakey (1936–2025)
Clark County Fire District 3 is saddened to share the passing of retired Fire Chief Don Lloyd Breakey, who faithfully served as our Fire Chief from 1973 until his retirement in 1989. Chief Breakey passed away peacefully this morning at the age of 89.
Born on February 26, 1936, Don Breakey was a lifelong member of our community. He graduated from Battle Ground High School and began his fire service career early, working three summers with the U.S. Forest Service in 1953, 1954, and 1955. He went on to serve 17 years as a firefighter with Clark County Fire District 5 before becoming Fire Chief at Fire District 3.
During his 16 years as Fire Chief, Don led the district through significant growth and modernization, including the transition to a fully career-staffed agency and the establishment of 24/7 staffing at Station 31 in Hockinson—milestones that continue to shape our operations today.
He is survived by his wife, Gail, and their three children, along with many extended family members and friends who will remember his dedication to public service and his leadership in our community. We extend our deepest condolences to Gail and the Breakey family during this time of loss. Details regarding memorial services will be shared when available.
