Fire Safety Educator of the Year

2024 Winner

James Alheim

Greenwich Fire Department

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James Alheim, a dedicated member of the Greenwich Fire Department, has been awarded FASNY’s prestigious Fire Safety Educator of the Year Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to fire safety education in New York state.

For more than 30 years, Alheim has actively educated the public about fire safety through innovative means. Emphasizing the significance of beginning with young people, Alheim prioritizes fire safety during School Fire Prevention Week every October, consistently reinforcing this message throughout the year for all age groups.

One of his notable achievements is the “Get Out Alive” program, recognized by the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs. This initiative features a mobile fire safety bus that educates people of all ages on fire escape planning. The bus, a 66-person vehicle converted into a home replica, visits schools, senior residences, and community events, using mock fire drills and interactive demonstrations to teach life-saving skills.

Alheim also organizes a Fire Expo at the Washington County Fairgrounds, bringing together area fire departments, retired and active New York State troopers, the U.S. Coast Guard, and fire prevention literature. His efforts extend to local businesses and housing projects, ensuring comprehensive community education.

As a role model to his three children, two of whom are volunteer firefighters, Alheim leverages technology to promote department programs such as CPR and AED training. Honored with numerous awards, including the Greenwich Fire Department’s Distinguished Fire Service Award, Alheim’s enthusiasm and dedication make him a silent hero, continually advancing fire safety for the betterment of the community.

FASNY President Edward Tase, Jr., stated, “James embodies service and leadership, reflecting our commitment to protect and educate with exceptional dedication. He is a steadfast advocate for fire safety and truly deserving of this recognition.”

Past Award Recipients

2023 Lt. Julie McKinnon Hastings-on-Hudson Volunteer Fire Department
2022 Richard M. Nemier Nedrow Volunteer Fire Department
2021 Edward Scharfberg Oceanside Fire Department
2020 Robert Brewer Lincoln Volunteer Fire Department
2019 Dean Smith Barnard Fire Department
2018 Robert Sutton Central Islip Fire Department
2017 Danny Dunn Enterprise Hose Co. No. 1
2016 William J. Wren New Hartford Fire Department
2015 Jennifer Cortese Whitesboro Fire Department
2014 Aaron Cook Johnsonville Volunteer Fire Co.
2013 Harry Prodromides Lindenhurst Fire Department
2012 William C. “Billy” Schroeder Lancaster Fire Department
2011 Chief Richard D. Tarello South Farmingdale Fire Department
2010 Kenneth Clair Jr. Brewster Fire Department
2009 Brian Niggli Penfield Fire Company
2008 David Bowen Vischer Ferry Volunteer Fire Company
2007 Donald P. Dalrymple Valois, Logan & Hector Fire Company, Inc
2006 Jeffrey S. Burkhart Oriskany Independent Fire and Hose Company
2005 Glenn Sickles Scottsville Fire Department