The Gold Ridge Fire Protection District was formed in 1993 when the Fire Districts of Hessel and Twin Hills merged, serving the communities of Hessel, Twin Hills, and Freestone. We offer all-risk fire protection and emergency medical response across 75 square miles of rural Sebastopol and mutual aid to all surrounding fire districts. The District is made up of ten full-time employees, several part-time employees, and approximately 50 volunteers. Paid staff work a 48 hour on-duty, 96 hour off-duty schedule covered by three rotating shifts. 
With the passing of Measure O in 2008, funding for additional staffing has increased and 24 hour staffing is now consistent at the Hessel and Twin Hills Fire Stations.