SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT
BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
HR/EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COMMITTEE MEETING
Meeting Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold an HR/Employee Benefits Committee meeting on Monday, February 6, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459.
The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss organizational matters.
Please call SWFD Headquarters at 850-267-1298 with any questions regarding this meeting.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT
BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
HR/EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COMMITTEE MEETING
Meeting Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold an HR/Employee Benefits Committee meeting on Monday, January 30, 2012 at 9:00 a.m. at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459.
The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss organizational matters.
Please call SWFD Headquarters at 850-267-1298 with any questions regarding this meeting.
Pension Board Appointee
Pension Board
The South Walton Fire District's Board of Fire Commissioners is seeking interested residents and business professional who reside in South Walton to participate on the Firefighter's Pension Board as a South Walton Fire District Board Appointee. Although it is not required, ideal candidates would be experienced in defined benefit retirements systems, financial statements as well as investment portfolios and processes.
The Firefighter's Pension Board meets quarterly at the South Walton Fire District Headquarters in Santa Rosa Beach.. This year's dates are:
JUNE 4, 2012 2:30 P.M.
AUGUST 27, 2012 2:30 P.M.
DECEMBER 3, 2012 2:30 P.M.
South Walton Fire District's Board of Fire Commissioners Pension Appointee, 911 CR 393 N, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
Volunteering in 2012
Volunteers
It feels like 2011 went by in the blink of an eye and it is resolution time again! What is your New Year's resolution?
As you prepare for the New Year, why not consider adding community service to your list? Sharing your time as a volunteer helps you make new friends, expands your social network and improves your skills.
The South Walton Fire District is actively pursuing dedicated individuals who wish to be a part of our mission and vision. As with our career recruitment, the South Walton Fire District accepts applicants that are committed to the wellbeing of our community as part of our volunteer staff.
Our volunteers share a sense of pride in the service they provide to our community. Some volunteers work a few hours a week, while others serve a few days a week. Special skills are nice, but not required to be a volunteer -- just a willing heart and a warm smile!
If you would like more information about volunteering at South Walton Fire District, please call Marc Anderson, Assistant Chief, or by email at manderson@swfd.org .
SWFD ANGEL TREE THANK YOU!
2011 Angel Tree
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) would like to thank the members of our community for making the 10th year of our SWFD/Caring and Sharing of Walton County Angel Tree a heartwarming success.
Even in tough economic times, citizens, visitors, local groups and organizations worked together to ensure that all 300 angels were adopted. We were concerned that the 300 names would not all be taken, especially with the financial hardships some people were faced with this year. said Robbie Lund, SWFD Angel Tree Coordinator.
In typical South Walton fashion, the community rose to the occasion and now each angel will have something to open on Christmas Day. The citizens in South Walton have such a giving spirit. The generosity displayed with the Angel Tree Program is proof of that spirit. I’m honored to call this community my home, said Rick Talbert, Fire Chief.
The SWFD would like to wish everyone a peaceful and safe holiday season.
ELF RIDE A SUCCESS
2011 Elf Ride
The The South Walton Fire District’s (SWFD) 4th Annual Elf Ride held on Dec. 4, 2011 proved to be a great success. Elves of all ages met at the Seaside Post Office at around and rode their bikes or walked to the SWFD’s Water Color Station 2 located at 2109 CR 395 South, in Seagrove.
An unwrapped toy was the only entry fee requirement for this 1.5 mile bike/walk charity event. All the toys collected directly benefitted the 300 names on the SWFD Angel Tree. Elf Ride creator Luke Thompson (age 14) was once again the Grand Elf for the event. Luke created this event at age 10. This event keeps getting bigger and bigger every year. said Luke.
Fire station tours, music, pictures with Santa and refreshments from local businesses were provided for all in attendance. Gift certificates from Beef O Bradys were given to the best costume, best decorated bike and youngest elf that completed the event (2 yrs old).
The South Walton Fire District would like to thank all the participants that helped make this event a success. SWFD would also like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT
BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
AUDIT COMMITTEE MEETING
Meeting Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold an Audit Committee meeting on Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459.
The purpose of the meeting will be to review the end of Fiscal Year 2010-2011 Audit provided by O'Sullivan Creel, Certified Public Accountants and Consultants.
Please call SWFD Headquarters at 850-267-1298 with any questions regarding this meeting.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT
BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
HR/EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COMMITTEE MEETING
Meeting Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold an HR/Employee Benefits Committee meeting on Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459.
The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss organizational matters.
Please call SWFD Headquarters at 850-267-1298 with any questions regarding this meeting.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT
BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
BOARD MEETINGS - 2012
MEETING SCHEDULE - 2012
JANUARY 9, 2012
FEBRUARY 6, 2012
MARCH 5, 2012
APRIL 2, 2012
MAY 7, 2012
JUNE 4, 2012
JULY 2, 2012
AUGUST 6, 2012
SEPTEMBER 10, 2012
OCTOBER 1, 2012
NOVEMBER 5, 2012
DECEMBER 3, 2012
All meetings are held at 4:00 p.m.
911 N CR 393 / Station 3 Headquarters
Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459
*Note: Persons who wish to be placed on the agenda must contact the Administrative Assistant within two days of any meeting and provide the name of the person who will be speaking and the subject to be addressed.
If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the South Walton Fire District's Board of Fire Commissioners with respect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, will need a record of the proceedings and that for such purpose may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT
FIREFIGHTERS' RETIREMENT SYSTEM
BOARD MEETINGS - 2012
Retirement Board
FEBRUARY 27, 2012 2:30 P.M.
JUNE 4, 2012 2:30 P.M.
AUGUST 27, 2012 2:30 P.M.
DECEMBER 3, 2012 2:30 P.M.
All meetings will be held at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach FL 32459 unless otherwise notified by posting a change of location.
Any person(s) who wish to be placed on the agenda must contact Nate Brown at nbrown@swfd.org within fifteen (15) days of any meeting and provide the name of the person who will be speaking and the subject to be addressed.
Home for the Holidays
Holidays
South Walton Fire District (SWFD) is offering a "Home for the Holidays" program. This program is designed to allow patients in skilled nursing and adult living facilities to go home and be with family members for holiday dinner. Patients must be self-supporting while at the residence, and be left in the care of a responsible family member.
The South Walton Fire District will be offering free transportation on a space available basis to local residents who would otherwise be unable to come home for the holiday celebrations. The "Home for the Holidays" program will provide transportation on Thanksgiving Eve and Thanksgiving Day and/or Christmas Eve or Christmas Day only, from the hours of 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. All requests for Thanksgiving transportation must be received by November 22, 2011 and all Christmas Holiday transportation request must be received by December 23, 2011.
South Walton Fire District will provide free roundtrip transportation originating in "South Walton" and ending in Walton County or within the Destin City limits. "The Home for the Holidays program is a way the Fire District can provide good cheer to local families, and we look forward to providing this special service to our community," stated Ryan Crawford, Operations Chief.
If you need additional information or would like to schedule transportation, please call our Communications Center at 850-267-0167.
Preventing Home Cooking Fires/Injuries
Holiday Safety
The holiday season is approaching and it is the time of year when family and friends come together to celebrate. Most of the holiday festivities revolve around a meal. With all the guests, distractions, and excitement of the holiday season, cooking and food preparation can be overwhelming and potentially dangerous.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):
- Cooking fires are the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries.
- Two-thirds or 66% of home cooking fire started with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.
- During 2004–2008, fire departments responded to an average of 155,000 home structure fires that involved cooking equipment per year.
- These fires caused an average of 460 civilian fire deaths, 4,850 civilian fire injuries and $724 million in direct property damage per year.
- Ranges were involved in three of every five (59%) of home cooking fire incidents. Ovens accounted for 16%.
- Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires.
- Always keep an eye on food being heated. Unattended cooking causes the majority of fires in the kitchen. If you leave the kitchen, turn off the heat.
- Keep children away from appliances when cooking. Enforce a "kid-free zone" around the stove and teach youngsters not to play in that area.
- Dress appropriately for cooking. Wear short or tight fitting sleeves when cooking and try not to reach over the stove.
- Turn handles inward so pots and pans won't be pulled or knocked off the stove.
- Keep the stove-top clean and clear. Keep food and grease from building up by cleaning often and keep things that can catch fire, like pot holders or wooden utensils, away from heat.
- Carefully monitor hot oil, keeping the pan lid close at hand. Guard against splattering grease by lowering food into oil with utensils; don't just drop it in.
- If you're cooking with oil and it ignites, don't throw water on the fire. Don't try moving the pan either. Turn the burner off and smother the fire with a pan lid. If this doesn't work, leave the house and call 9-1-1.
- If you have a fire in your microwave oven, close the door to the microwave and unplug it. Don't use the microwave again until you've had it serviced. Do not put any metallic materials in the microwave oven.
- Keep an "ABC" dry chemical fire extinguisher in the kitchen.
- Use caution with electrical appliances. Plug one appliance into an outlet at a time. Have appliances with frayed or cracked cords repaired before use.
- Keep heat-producing appliances away from walls and curtains.
- Keep appliance cords as short as possible to avoid accidents such as tripping or knocking the appliance over.
- Always have hot pads and lids ready when cooking. You may need them if you experience a small pan fire.
- Use a burner that's the appropriate size for the pan you're using.
Structure Fire in Seacrest Beach
Structure Fire
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) received a call at 11:10 A.M. this morning reporting a structure fire at 8865 E. CR 30 A in the Seacrest Beach area. SWFD crews arrived within 6 minutes of the original 911 call to find a garage fire that was quickly spreading to the house.
An aggressive attack by the first arriving crews contained the majority of the damage to the garage. The residents were home at the time, and were able to elude the fire with no injuries. Crews remained on scene into the afternoon to ensure the fire was completely out and assist the occupants of the home.
Estimated loss is approximately $150,000.00
The SWFD and the Florida State Fire Marshal's office are investigating.
Nation Wide Alert Testing to Take Place
Alert Testing
At 1:00 PM CST (2:00 PM EST) on November 9, 2011 the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The Test Signal will last 3 minutes and will be broadcast on all television and radio stations in the United States.
This is the first time this test will be conducted simultaneously nation-wide. The purpose of the test is to assess the reliability and effectiveness of the system as a way to alert the public during nationwide emergencies. At the request of the FCC, The South Walton Fire District would like to inform all of its customers, residents, and guest of this important test.
FEMA and the FCC have already conducted a pilot test, in Alaska, and found that advance public notice helped keep from overwhelming 911 Centers during that test.
The public and the media can obtain additional information from the FCC's Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau website at www.fcc.gov/pshs.
Change your Clocks - Change your Batteries!
SAFETY
For 13 years, the South Walton Fire District (SWFD) has participated in the International Association of Fire Chiefs' campaign "Change your Clock -Change your Battery", reminding citizens to change the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when they change their clocks this Sunday, November 6, 2011.
SWFD is so committed to this belief that the Fire District will install and replace batteries in smoke detectors for South Walton residents who are senior citizens, disabled, or families in need, at no charge. Remember, the life of a smoke detector is 10 years. If your detector is 10 years old or older, it should be replaced.
Some alarming facts:
- Every year, approximately 3,000 people lose their lives in home fires, and most of those deaths are among the elderly, the disabled, the low income, and the very young.
- Home fires account for four of every five fire-related deaths and three of every four fire-related injuries.
- Many of these deaths may have been prevented if a working smoke detector was in place.
- More than 90% of homes in the U.S. have smoke detectors, but 1/3 are estimated to have dead or missing batteries.
- Remember - please set your clocks back one hour on Sunday, November 6, 2011 at 2:00 a.m.!
Structure Fire in Watercolor
FIRE
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) received a call at 1:17 A.M. this morning reporting a structure fire. SWFD crews from Station 2 were the first to arrive at 238 Watercolor Blvd, Bait House Restaurant, to find a large commercial building with heavy fire involvement.
SWFD crews encountered a quick spreading fire that had breached the attic as well as the roof. Although this made for a very "stubborn" fire, the crews were still able to knock down the flames and save over half of the 4,800 square foot facility. Crews remained on scene throughout the rest of the morning to extinguish hot spots and ensure the fire was completely out.
Estimated loss is approximately $650,000.00
The SWFD and the Florida State Fire Marshal's office are investigating.
Fire Prevention Open House
OPEN HOUSE
In an effort to promote fire/life safety, the South Walton Fire District will be hosting a free "Open House" on Saturday October 22, 2011 from 11am-2pm.
There will be "live" demonstrations, child safety seat inspections, fire related games and activities, a "jump house" blood pressure checks, food, drinks and fun and more!
Please plan on joining us in support of Fire Prevention and learn to "Protect Your Family From Fire".
The event will take place at the SWFD Station 2 located at 2109 S. HWY 395 Seagrove Beach, Fl. 32459.
If you have any questions, please contact Sammy Sanchez, Fire Marshal at 850-267-1298
South Walton Fire District Launches Citizen Volunteer Program
Volunteer Program
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Citizen Volunteer Program officially kicked off last week. The "volunteers" began filling their roles assisting Fire District personnel.
"There are many residents in Walton County that are retired, semi-retired, or stay at home parents, all looking for a way to contribute to their community, we now offer the opportunity to fill that void, " said Assistant Chief Marc Anderson, program coordinator. "Initially the volunteers will focus mainly on "administrative/clerical" duties."
"By becoming a SWFD volunteer, that individual becomes a member of one of Florida's leading fire-rescue agencies," said Rick Talbert, Fire Chief
"The talent and skill level of these volunteers is very impressive," but there will not be any firefighting/combat duties involved," said Sammy Sanchez, Fire Marshal.
Some long term goals and objectives include: fire prevention, public education, CPR, event coordination support and fleet maintenance support. If you would like to be part of our exciting, dynamic team as a citizen volunteer please contact SWFD for a volunteer application. For additional information please feel free to call us at (850) 267-1298.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
NOTICE of SPECIAL MEETING
Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold an Special Meeting on:
4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters,
911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
The proposed resolutions may be inspected at South Walton Fire District Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
NOTICE of Executive Session
Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold an Executive Session on:
5:30 p.m.
at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, 2nd Floor Training Room
911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
For information, please contact SWFD Headquarters at 850-267-1298.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT NOTICE OF
CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS SESSION
Notice
Members of the South Walton Fire District (SWFD), members of the SWFD Board of Fire Commissioners and members of the South Walton Professional Firefighters Association (SWPFFA)/Local 3516 will meet at Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 on the following date:
8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
For further information, please call Station 3/Headquarters at 850-267-1298.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT NOTICE OF
CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS SESSION
Notice
Members of the South Walton Fire District (SWFD), members of the SWFD Board of Fire Commissioners and members of the South Walton Professional Firefighters Association (SWPFFA)/Local 3516 will meet at Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 on the following date:
8:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.
For further information, please call Station 3/Headquarters at 850-267-1298.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
Notice: Final Public Hearing of
Ad Valorem Taxes and Budget 2011/2012
Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold the Final Public Hearing on
Please call SWFD Headquarters at 850-267-1298 with any questions.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
Notice: First Public Hearing of
Tentative Ad Valorem Taxes and Budget 2011/2012
Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold the First Public Hearing on
5:01 p.m.
at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
Please call SWFD Headquarters at 850-267-1298 with any questions.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
NOTICE of Executive Session
Notice
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Board of Fire Commissioners will hold an Executive Session on:
8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.
at SWFD Station 3/Headquarters, 2nd Floor Training Room - 911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.
The purpose of the Executive Session is for the Board to discuss the independent actuary findings.
For information, please contact SWFD Headquarters at 850-267-1298.
NOTICE OF INTENT TO ENACT RESOLUTION
Notice
The South Walton Fire District proposes to adopt the following Resolution:
A RESOLUTION OF THE SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT ESTABLISHING A FEE SCHEDULE FOR FALSE ALARMS AS DEFINED IN SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT ORDINANCE #2011-02, AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY, REPEAL OF CONFLICTING RESOLUTIONS, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE
A public hearing on the Resolution will be held on the September 12, 2011, at the South Walton Fire District, 911 County Highway 393 North, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459 at 4:00 P.M. All interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the requested Resolution.
A copy of the Proposed Resolution may be inspected at South Walton Fire District.
NOTICE OF INTENT TO ENACT ORDINANCE
Notice
The South Walton Fire District proposes to adopt the following Ordinance:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT CREATING CONTROLS AND UTILIZATION FOR PRIVATELY OWNED FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS; PROVIDES FOR FALSE ALARM FEES AND PENALTIES; PROVIDES FOR ALARM SYSTEM DISCONNECT FOR CAUSE AND UNAUTHORIZED RECONNECT; PROVIDES FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDES FOR REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; PROVIDES FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE
A public hearing on the Ordinance will be held on the September 12, 2011, at the South Walton Fire District, 911 County Highway 393 North, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida 32459 at 4:00 P.M. All interested parties may appear at the meeting and be heard with respect to the requested Ordinance.
A copy of the Proposed Ordinance may be inspected at South Walton Fire District.
Garage Burns in Santa Rosa Beach
Fire
On August 25, 2011, The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) received a call at 5:30 P.M. reporting a garage fire. SWFD Station 3 crews were the first to arrive at the home located at 179 Emerald Ridge (Gulf Trace Subdivision) to find a garage attached to a single family dwelling fully engulfed in flames.
SWFD Crews arrived within 7 minutes of the initial 911 call. An aggressive attack by SWFD crews contained the fire to the garage area within 10 minutes. The remainder of the estimated 3,000 square foot home appeared to sustain only minor smoke damages. The residents were home at the time but were able to elude the fire with no injuries. An investigation by the SWFD Fire Marshal and the State Fire Marshal's Office determined the cause to be a battery charger located in a utility/storage locker. SWFD responded with 2 Engines, 2 Ladder Companies, 2 Rescue Units, 1 Chief Officer and 1 Fire Marshal.
The South Walton Fire District would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that battery chargers often produce high temperatures and should always be used in areas with adequate ventilation. Never use battery chargers in closed confined spaces. Always make sure the charger has completely cooled down before storing.
Aldridge-Benge Firefighter Safety Act
Firefighter Safety
The Aldridge-Benge Firefighter Safety Act, which was unanimously passed by both the Florida House and Senate and became state law in late 2010, has not completely been adopted by all area businesses meeting this criteria.
Florida Statute 633.027, requires the owners of commercial, industrial, and multi-unit residential buildings (three or more units) in Florida to be marked with an emblem to warn firefighters of the use of lightweight floor and roof trusses, which are prone to early collapse under fire conditions. The act was named in the memory of two Orange County (FL) firefighters who were killed in the collapse of a gift shop that was constructed of such components.
Reaction and adoption to this very important state law appears to be slow. The South Walton Fire District is urging area business partners to comply with this state requirement. A letter outlining the state statue and emblem requirements was recently distributed by utilizing the Walton Area Chamber of Commerce e-blast system. It is estimated that over 4,000 e-mail addresses have received this information. For additional information regarding this statute, please contact Sammy Sanchez, Fire Marshal SWFD or visit the Fire/Life Safety Tab at the top of the page.
SOUTH WALTON FIRE DISTRICT
FIREFIGHTERS RETIREMENT SYSTEM
NOTICE PENSION BOARD MEETING
Notice of Meeting
The South Walton Fire District (SWFD) Firefighters Retirement System Pension Board will hold a regularly scheduled meeting on
2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m.
at South Walton Fire District
911 N CR 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL
The purpose of the meeting will be to address the following:
- Consultant's reports
- Chairman's position
- Non recurring payment processing
- State acceptance of payroll assumption change
- Email accounts
- Public records
- Fiduciary liability insurance
- Assignment of responsibilities for board members