Richard Kelley: OFCA President’s Report

Greetings Brothers and Sisters!

This summer has been really crazy with lots of rain and storms during July, which is usually very dry in Oklahoma.

Be safe and stay hydrated during the upcoming hot months as you protect the customers in your community.

I hope everyone had a great time at the OSFA Convention, as I was unable to attend due to a conflict in my schedule.

I hear it was a great convention with lots of discussions and great activities. Congratulations to Tom Marcum on his election to OSFA 3rd Vice-President.

As we move toward the beginning of the school year and subsequently the fall season, it is time to continue our focus on Community Risk Reduction (CRR) activities.

Unfortunately, every year Oklahoma is in the top 10 for fire fatalities per capita and this is something we all have to work together to reduce or eliminate.

OFCA PRESIDENT

Richard Kelley richard.kelley@okc.gov

1ST VICE PRESIDENT Craig Carruth ccarruth@cityofmustang.org

2ND VICE PRESIDENT Michael Baker mbaker@cityoftulsa.org

3RD VICE PRESIDENT Terry Essary terry.essary@stillwater.org

OFCA PAST PRESIDENT James Heap jrheap@pldi.net

OFCA DIRECTOR

Kent Lagaly klagaly901@gmail.com

Although we are many months away, it is never too early to prepare for the upcoming Chiefs Winter Workshop in January 2024.

I hope everyone makes plans to attend as it is a great time to learn, grow and network with other fire department leaders. Chief Michael Baker, TFD, will do an outstanding job and I am excited to see his vision in building and preparing for this event coming to fruition.

Speaking of preparations, in April 2024, I will have the honor to host the Annual Chiefs Conference in Oklahoma City. The dates are April 10-12 at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown OKC. Plan to attend both events and build your network while learning with our incredible fire service family.

Remember you are a fire service leader so never underestimate your level of influence and always strive to make a positive difference in the lives of the people around you.

Until next time, strive for excellence because Leaders are not born, they are made.