Fire Safety Educator of the Year

 

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