Community Education
Overview
The Community Education Division was created in September, 2001. Battalion Chief Michael Saraceni and Public Education Officer James Bannar were given the opportunity, challenge and responsibility to initiate this critical component of our fire protection mission. This Division has been implemented
to improve the quality of life for residents, merchants, business owners and visitors to the community. We intend to implement a multi-pronged approach to reach our children, senior citizens and every citizen. The primary goal - fire safety through education and prevention.
Leading Accomplishments
As a newly created unit, the Chief's Office has held several meetings with the Director of Community Education, imparting vision, guidance and support. During the last quarter of 2001, specific goals and objectives, short and long-range, have been identified. We have reviewed all current programs and
services provided through the Fire Prevention Division and evaluated them against our plans for the future. A meeting was held with the Chief Fire Marshal to allow for a smooth and efficient transition of responsibilities from his Division to the new one.
This year, we utilized Fire Prevention Week to host Open Houses at all Cherry Hill Fire Stations to bring our firefighters closer to the people they serve. This venture proved to be a successful and beneficial approach. The Department raised $1,500 to be donated to the FDNY 9-1-1 Relief effort. In
the future, we will stick to that theme and continue to bring all community groups, residents and business owners closer to the Fire Department.
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