Kentucky Fire Commission News

The Kentucky Fire Commission is amid a busy winter, both with continuing projects and new projects. Construction on the new building at the Kentucky Fire Academy is progressing nicely. As of the end of January 2023, power has been run to the construction site and the building is covered. Roofing will be finished soon. Apparatus bay doors have been framed and construction is on schedule for a December 2023 completion date. We are excited for the Academy to begin Recruit Class 002 February 13, and look forward to watching the new group of recruits in their journey.

We are in process of finalizing the purchase of property in London to house the District 13 campus. Purchase includes the current District 13 building/property as well as the adjoining five acres and building.

Quotes for the purchase of four-gas meters and batteryoperated combi tools, that were part of a grant program that was opened last fall, are also in process. Purchasing and distribution of the equipment to awarded departments will begin soon.

Through our newest grant program, certified firefighters in Kentucky have the opportunity to participate in EMR and EMTtraining free of charge. Tuition, textbook and the first attempt at NREMTtesting are covered under this grant.

Derrick Hall joined the Fire Commission as a full-time employee January 17, 2023, as the Director of Facilities/Fleet Management. Derrick retired as the Fire Chief and also worked as the City Manager of Hazard. He resides in Richmond. He has been a longtime adjunct instructor for State Fire Rescue Training. Welcome aboard Derrick!

- Submitted by Ericka Adams Cole