The Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal has announced the recipients of the 2025 Golden and Silver Sparky Awards, recognizing individuals and groups for their exceptional contributions in fire prevention education. According to the state fire marshal’s website, these awards, established since 1977, represent the highest state fire service honor one can receive.
Charlie Lesiecki, this year's Golden Sparky Award winner, is not just a volunteer firefighter for the Central Coast Fire & Rescue District; leading a smoke alarm program is what he does, and ensuring facilities meet OSHA standards as the safety committee chair is among his responsibilities. The fire marshal highlights the "lasting impact" his "creative outreach and hands-on efforts" have had on the community.
In contrast, the Silver Sparky Award was earned by a team. The Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Fire Corps, nearly 50 volunteers strong, have been setting standards in community risk reduction since 2015. Celebrated for their "extraordinary energy and care," they have trained 171 people in lifesaving skills over the past year, conducted a combination of 82 smoke alarm calls and 170 wildland home assessments, and provided undeniable support to firefighters during emergencies, the website states.
Both awards, the Golden and Silver Sparky, sun and moon of Oregon's fire service accolades, shine light on those who make communities safer through prevention and education. The fire marshal’s office invites those interested in learning more about past awardees and their contributions to visit the Sparky Award webpage.
