From Fairgrounds to Fire Prevention
Can you believe we are already this close to fall? The weather has certainly been a bit fickle, with more than adequate rain at times with comfortable temperatures, and then a slap back to reality with hot, humid and dry conditions. Apparently, we really are living in Missouri, the state of many seasons.
With the return to hot, humid, and the occasional rain storm, we no doubt were right in the middle of the Missouri State Fair. It seems like it wouldn’t be a normal fair without those varying conditions, making visiting and working at the fair somewhat of a challenge. The Missouri State Fair Volunteer Fire Department came together for eleven days again this year with equipment and personnel loaned from member departments across the state to provide fire and emergency medical services to those visiting and working at the fair.
I had the privilege of spending some time at the fair and watching these dedicated men and women do what they do best. It is an uplifting thing to see this wide mixture of people come together and perform almost like they worked together every day. The work done at the fair is appreciated by those in charge and by legislators and other elected state officials who make a point to stop in the station for a visit. With any luck, we will see the new station up and functioning by next year’s fair. My thanks to all involved in the planning for the new station and the move out from the current station. After so many years in that building, I am sure it was a somewhat bittersweet closeout to the fair.
I hope you have been planning your fire prevention/education activities all year and are ready for our “busy” season of PR events. Each October seems to bring an onslaught of requests to visit local schools, youth groups and civic groups to talk about fire safety in conjunction with “Fire Prevention Week/Month.” This is a great platform to get a safety message out to your community and, of course, make them aware you are available all year to come and visit about fire and other safety related matters. Remember, the more you interact with your citizens on a normal day, the less intrusive your interaction is on what could be the worst day of their lives during an emergency.
For the second year in a row, people affiliated with FFAM received the Friends of the Fair award given to those who have gone above and beyond in service to the Fair. PIO Larry Eggen and Joni Fields were both recognized this year for their contributions. Great job, both of you, and keep up the good work!
The Memorial Foundation has been busy planning the 2025 event honoring those members of the Missouri Fire Service who we have lost. This year will again have a large group being recognized at the Candlelight Ceremony on October 4th and the Memorial Service on October 5th. If you can join us to help honor the men and women who have passed, I believe you will find the event well planned and a fitting way of remembering these dedicated personnel.
As schools go back into session, fall sports begin, school programs start up, department activities kick into high gear and life gets a bit more hectic, don’t forget to carve out some “me” time. Some people would say taking some “me” time is selfish and doesn’t address the needs of those around you very well. I would offer the counter argument that taking care of yourself makes you a better asset to your family, department and community. Your involvement in the fire service signifies, at least in part, your desire to want to help others and help them through unfortunate situations, but who is there to help you? You need time away, you need time to care for yourself, and you need time to seek out assistance if you need. There is no shame in needing “me” time and taking even short breaks from the normal routine to make sure you are being the best you possible. Remember, there are many resources available to help you through the tough times. All you have to do is reach out and ask. Be good to yourself and be good to those you serve.
Be safe in all you do and if any of the Board can be of assistance, please contact one of us.
FFAM
