State Fire Marshal and Command Staff 2024 Tour Launches

COLUMBUS, Ohio -The Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal (SFM) announces a series of regional statewide outreach events aimed at fostering stronger connections with Ohio's fire service community and the public. These events will provide a unique opportunity for both firefighters and community members to engage directly with the State Fire Marshal, Deputy Marshal, and the Division's Command Staff.
"Our mission is about prevention, education, and strengthening the bond between the fire service and the communities we serve.," said State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon, "Many don't really know what the State Fire Marshal's Office does as an organization, and we want to change that with this tour."
Tour Dates and Locations:
• April 25, 2024: Bowling Green Fire Department, Veterans Building - 520 Conneaut Avenue, Bowling Green, Ohio 43402.
• May 9, 2024: Athens Fire Department, Athens City Community Center - 701 East State Street, Athens, Ohio 45701.
• June 6, 2024: Akron Fire Department, 81 West Thornton Street, Akron, Ohio 44311.
• July 18, 2024: Lebanon Fire Department, 610 North Broadway, Lebanon, Ohio 45036.
• August 13, 2024: Division of State Fire Marshal, 8895 East Main Street, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068.

Representatives from each bureau will share information, answer questions, and discuss how their work impacts the fire service and protects communities throughout Ohio. This initiative underscores the SFM's commitment to transparency, education, and collaboration with Ohio's firefighting professionals and the communities they serve.

In addition to the administrative arm of the division, command staff representatives will be on hand from:
• Bureau of Testing and Registration
• Ohio Fire Academy
• Code Enforcement Bureau
• Fire & Explosion Investigation Bureau
• Bureau of Underground Storage Tanks Regulations
• Forensic Lab
• Fire Prevention Bureau

"These statewide outreach events represent an opportunity to speak directly with stakeholders," Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal Richard Sluder said. "We look forward to meeting with firefighters and community members alike, answering their questions, and discussing how we can continue to work together for a safer Ohio."

All meetings are scheduled from 10 a.m. to Noon and are free and open to the public. This is an opportunity for individuals interested in the fire service and the workings of the State Fire Marshal to obtain invaluable information and foster relationships with leading figures in the field.

These meetings are free and open to the public. Visit the State Fire Marshal's website at com.ohio.gov/fire to learn more.