Oriskany Volunteer Fire Department Honored with NYSAFC 2015 James W. Wright Public Education Award

The New York State Association of Fire Chiefs is pleased to announce that the Oriskany Volunteer Fire Department has been named the 2015 recipient of the "James W. Wright Public Fire Safety Education Award." The award was presented on May 2, 2015, during the opening session of the 42nd Annual Fire & Life Safety Educators’ Conference hosted by NYSAFC and the New York State Office of Fire Prevention & Control at the New York State Academy of Fire Science in Montour Falls, NY.

Oriskany Fire Chief Jeffrey Burkhart nominated the department for the award, which NYSAFC has presented since 1995 in recognition of an individual or organization for outstanding effort in delivering fire and life safety public education programs to citizens in New York state. Members of Oriskany’s Public Life Safety Committee accepted the award on behalf of the department.

Under the leadership of Assistant Chief Brett Cassevah and Captain Daryl Buornat, Oriskany’s 12-member team commits to delivering fire and life safety education programs year round that benefit and influence members of the community they serve as well as citizens throughout Oneida County and central New York.

The Oriskany Fire Department has taken a proactive approach to fire and life safety, implementing its education program over 20 years ago. The department reaches all segments of the population, from young children to the elderly, serving a diverse area with rural, suburban, and commercial occupancies. The Public Life Safety Committee participates in safety day presentations at local schools and attends village and countywide events to share a wide range of safety information. Using an array of props and tools for safety demonstrations, the department’s program covers everything from fire prevention to medical emergencies to holiday and water safety for children and adults. In part because of the department’s tireless efforts and comprehensive program, it has been well over 20 years since a fire related death has occurred within this district.

NYSAFC salutes the members of the Oriskany Volunteer Fire Department for their dedication and commitment to public fire and life safety education throughout the year.