a minimum of five members each. All HFD first responders are required to be both firefighters and paramedics. “It is important to the City that the HFD team is highly qualified to handle emergencies. The dual credentials benefit everyone, especially the patients needing quick intervention,” shared Haynes. In 2018, Eddie Haynes became the first individual at the City of Helotes to hold the position solely dedicated to serving as Fire Marshal. In this role, he is responsible for enforcing City Code, reviews new development construction plans, conducts site inspections, and coordinates public education. He interacts with City staff and the Helotes building and health inspectors almost daily to ensure projects taking place in the community comply with the Fire Code. The main goal is safety. “As Fire Marshal, I work closely with other City departments to ensure that structures are safe and fire regulations have been satisfied. It’s all about safety, and I’m honored to take part in this process,” explains Haynes, “I live in this community. It’s my passion to help my fellow neighbors stay protected by enforcing safety measures outlined in the City’s Code.” The Helotes Fire Marshal and firefighters conduct ongoing outreach to educate the public about fire safety. This includes visiting senior centers and local schools. “With young children, it is important that they see a firefighter dressed in their safety gear and hear them speak through their mask. This helps children know what to expect during an actual emergency,” said Eddie. The suit and mask worn by firefighters can be intimidating, especially for a child who is already scared during an emergency. “Teaching children that we might look
Helotes: Gateway to the Texas Hill Country – Winter 2020
and sound strange, but these people are coming to help, is rewarding.” Many youngsters will share the safety message they learned at school with their loved ones at home, so the education continues beyond the classroom. Outside of the Fire Department, you may find Eddie and his family camping, fishing, visiting the beach, or gardening. He has been married to his wife, a registered nurse, for 25 years. They are the proud parents of two daughters. Family is very important to Eddie. You’ll notice his face brighten when he proudly talks about his loved ones. “I cherish the time spent with my family! A career in fire service can be stressful, so spending time having fun with my family helps me recharge. It’s not only the firefighter who serves, but the family as well,” says Eddie. With long work hours and shifts away from home, the emotional support of a firefighter’s family makes a big difference. When Eddie was asked how he gets through the toughest days on the job, such as attending to a victim at a vehicle accident or witnessing someone lose all their personal possessions in a house fire, Eddie quickly responds, “your family—both your colleagues at the Department and the family members at home. Relationships help you push through the most difficult days.”
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