Recognition isn’t what brings the sirens blaring, but the Phoenix Fire Department (PFD) found its efforts in early childhood safety awarded with the title of 2024 Arizona Early Childhood Regional Champion. The accolade, presented by First Things First and the office of Senator Mark Kelly, comes as a nod to the PFD's commitment to the wellbeing of the city's youngest residents—infants to five-year-olds.
The award ceremony, held on September 21, gathered community members at Goelet A Beuf Community Center, where Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien and First Things First CEO Melinda Morrison Gulick shared commendations. The PFD's Community Risk Education and EMS departments, known for initiatives targeting immunizations, water safety and more, took the spotlight, with special mentions to their work in car seat and hot car safety, these efforts clearly demonstrate the department's dedication to preventing mishap and tragedy amongst children, according to a Phoenix.gov news release.
Standing with fellow firefighters during the ceremony, Fire Chief Mike Duran along with executive staff members, expressed the department's collective pride. What they've achieved isn't just about emergency responses; it's proactive, encompassing key educational campaigns, these programs are deeply woven into the social fabric, seeking to shield the smallest and most vulnerable, the department was honored with a commemorative plaque, straight from Senator Kelly's office.
