Firefighter First Class Andrew Dotson, Fire Prevention Coordinator for the Morgantown Fire Department, was chosen as the West Virginia Fire & Life Safety Educator of the Year at the West Virginia Public Safety Expo in Charleston on Thursday, May 9. Dotson was presented with the award by State Fire Marshal Ken Tyree.
FFC Dotson is a 13-year veteran of the Morgantown Fire Department. He was appointed to oversee the department’s fire prevention efforts in 2012. During his time as Fire Prevention Coordinator, Dotson has provided training to over 12,000 people annually through his development of community outreach programs. These programs have partnered with numerous educational organizations, including West Virginia University and Greene County Community College.
Morgantown Fire Chief Mark Caravasos affirmed the honor.
“Andrew’s passion is teaching fire prevention,” said Caravasos. “He is a true professional in his field. The City of Morgantown is lucky to have someone like Andrew who is dedicated to spreading the word on fire safety and prevention throughout the community.”
Dotson’s efforts aren’t confined to just the City. Through his efforts, a cooperative program has been established with several county volunteer fire departments to place fire prevention training in the local school system. Firefighters from the different agencies have teamed up to give students of all ages important information about the hazards of fire and what to do in the event of an emergency. Recently the group provided some “hands on” experience in operating fire extinguishers and hose lines at local high schools.
Groups and organizations that would like to receive training in fire prevention and fire safety can contact Dotson by calling the Morgantown Fire Department at 304-284-7480.
FFC Andrew Dotson receives the West Virginia Fire & Life Safety Educator of the Year at the West Virginia Public Safety Expo in Charleston on Thursday, May 9. Pictured from left to right: Ken Tyree, West Virginia State Fire Marshal; Andrew Dotson, Firefighter First Class, Morgantown Fire Department; Bob Sharp, Chief Deputy State Fire Marshal, West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office; Courtney Rosemond, Public Information Specialist II, West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office.