Type of Organization

Fire/Rescue Department - Paid

Job Function

Training Officer, EMT - Paramedic (or Other ALS), Driver / Engineer

Years in Fire/EMS:

17

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Ocoee Fire Department

Years With Department/Agency

8

Dept. Web Site:

http://ci.ocoee.fl.us/Fire/

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

Damon Volunteer Fire Department, Texas
Rolling Hills Lakes Volunteer Fire Department, Alabama
North Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Department, Alabama
Rural Metro Ambulance, Florida
Orlando Regional Healthcare Mobile Care Team, Florida

My Training:

Firefigher, Paramedic, Driver/Operator, Rope Rescue Technician, Confined Space Resuce Technician, Trench Rescue Technician, Fire Instructor 1, BLS Instructor.

About Me:

I started in the Fire Service at age 16. At age 18 I became an EMT. I volunteered there until I turned 21. I joined the USAF and was a medic in the Air Force. I volunteered in one department there, until a new department formed. When that department formed I took the position of Fire Cheif at age 24. I continued there until I left the military in 98. I spent the spring getting my Florida Standards. I was hired with the Ocoee Fire Department in Novemeber of 99. I became a Paramedic in 2003. I was promoted to Engineer in 2005. I have my A.S. in EMS. I will finish my A.S. in Fire Scince in December of 2007. I will take my state Fire Officer I exam in Spring of 2008, and will seat for the next Lt. promotional exam in Summer of 2008. Where I hope to score very high.

Relationship Status:

Married

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

I wanted to help others. I started in a very small volunteer Fire Department. Then the bug bite me, and I worked hard to pursue the passion full time. Now I live my dream.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

My fellow Firefighters

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Safety. I feel we are not putting our best interest in front of us. We feel glory bound to enter every stinking structure fire and put our lives at risk for nothing. When will we wake up and realize that the Insurance companies are writing off the building long before we will. WHY?

The other issue I see facing EMS is community outreach. EMS just shows up and takes people to the hospital. If the EMS community would wake up and take the stance the Fire Service took 20 years ago with Fire Safety, we could have an impact on our Health. EMS needs to get in the schools and start educating the kids about good meals, exercise, and when it is important to see a doctor or call 911.