2018 Award Recipients
The International Association of Fire Chiefs’ Safety, Health & Survival Section has announced the winners of its 2018 awards. The section awards recognize both organizations and individuals who have made a significant contribution to health and safety within their own organizations and the fire service.
Every year, winners are selected by a committee appointed by the Safety, Health & Survival Section. The awards will be presented during the section’s general business meeting, to be held on Wednesday, August 8 at Fire-Rescue International in Dallas, TX.
“Based on this year’s nominations, especially the award recipients, it is very clear the safety message is not only being received, it’s changing the course of our profession,” said Lieutenant Steve Tullis, chairman of the Awards Selection Committee. “It is our honor to recognize their achievements as examples for others to follow in doing everything possible to embrace the goal that Everyone Goes Home. We also thank our corporate sponsors and partner organizations whose commitment and support make it possible for us to celebrate these accomplishments,” added Tullis.
Safety, Health and Survival Awards [email protected] 708.218.7800
IAFC Safety, Health
Alan Brunacini Fire Service Executive Safety Award
Sponsored by Provident Insurance
Chief Richard Thode, Bridgeport, CT – Chief Thode started his career as a brazen young firefighter who went the extra mile to ensure his personal safety and the safety of his fellow firefighters. He then spent the next 30 plus years advocating for firefighter safety as he rose through the ranks. Through the purchase of new and innovative equipment, the implemen- tation of new and leading edge policies and a relentless pursuit of training that goes well beyond what’s expected in all ranks of his organization, Chief Those is providing a model for success when it comes to firefighter health and wellness.
Billy Goldfeder Fire Service Organizational Safety Award
Sponsored by VFIS
The Kingman Fire Department, Kingman AZ – The Kingman Fire Department, under the leadership of Chief Jake Rhoades, took huge strides forward when they implemented a bold new medical and physical program. This program is not only compliant with NFPA stan-dards, but also delivers on the promise of making sure everyone in the organization is phys- ically and mentally fit for the long haul. Annual physicals, medical examinations, peer-to- peer fitness training, behavior health screening and support, and proactive measures to reduce and in some cases even prevent cancer exposure put the Kingman Fire Department ahead of the curve in promoting firefighter safety throughout the state of Arizona.
Garry Briese IAFC Safety Performance Award
Sponsored by WHP Training Towers
Co-Recipients: Chief John Butler and Chief John Tippett – Chief Butler and Chief Tippett have made career long efforts and significant contributions to the overall environment of health and safety not only locally within their organizations, but also on a national level throughout our profession. The thought leadership and dedication of these two men are influencing future generations of fire officers and firefighters in such a proactive and power- ful way. Change isn’t happening. It’s already here thanks to Chief Butler and Chief Tippett.
Chief Sandy Davis Safety Officer of the Year
Cosponsored by MSA and FDSOA
Captain Dan Dushanko, Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue, MD – Hardworking, tenacious, intelligent, dedicated and caring. These are just a few of the words have been used to describe Captain Dushanko by his colleagues and peers. A well-respected and multi-faceted fire officer, Captain Dushanko approaches the improvement of firefighter safety, health and wellness from all angles. Where it’s serving as a supervisor in the catheteri- zation laboratory, immediate appointment to Safety Manager during the “100 Year Flood of Elli- cott City,” or advocating physical fitness and the departments medical program, Captain Dushanko represents the true spirit of this award.