Spring time, busy time!
Hello Firefighters,
Let the spring busy-ness begin, or for some may it keep going! With springtime here, some of the departments who do controlled wildland burns are going strong, I’m sure. For some departments, it’s an opportunity for some new recruits to get a chance to get a feel of fire in somewhat of a controlled environment.
Along with that, a few other things regarding fire service have also happened lately. One is the Women Explore Fire Day in Minnesota. I would like to thank Jen and all of those involved in making this a successful event throughout the state, encouraging women to be a part of public service in their communities. Minnesota is a leader throughout the country to recognize the importance of this.
Secondly, many of us attended Fire Service Day at the Capital on April 27th. Our lobbyist partners – LGN - along with others, makes this happen. To those who took time to come and visit with legislators, I thank you. Just a reminder that this is open to all firefighters to join us at the Capitol; please reach out to your regional director for next year’s date and join us.
This year we also have the Fire Service Assessment happening. During the 2025 legislative session, the MN State Legislature asked the State Fire Marshals Division to conduct a comprehensive statewide assessment of how firefighting services are provided in Minnesota and to develop recommendations for any proposed changes. The assessment will evaluate the current delivery of fire and life safety services across the state and identify opportunities to strengthen preparedness, effectiveness and sustainability. Some of you may already have heard about this; if not, Chief Officers I need to talk to you. In the upcoming months, you will be asked to participate in both in-person and virtual stakeholders listening sessions (and eventually with responses) about your fire department and its operation in a questionnaire that will be sent out. We need all departments throughout the state to respond to this assessment to be able to help the future of the MN fire service.
In addition to all of this going on, many of you probably have yard work, field work, fire department things, and various school activities going on. Enjoy all that spring brings with it with your family and friends, and get geared up to welcome summertime in Minnesota—it’s right around the corner!
I look forward in seeing you in Breezy at our Conference in September!!!
As always, Stay Safe~
Dale Grochow, President MSFDA