OZARK FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT (OFPD)

The Ozark Fire Protection District (OFPD) serves the community of Ozark, Missouri, with a commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment through efficient and effective fire prevention, education, and emergency response services. The district is renowned for its professionalism, dedication, and community involvement. 

Mission and Vision 

The mission of the Ozark Fire Protection District is to “To be a strong team with the DUTY to aggressively serve our community with INTEGRITY and EXCELLENCE". The vision is to "Focus on our community by being good stewards, responsive to risk, and pursuing excellence in all we do".

Structure and Divisions 

• Fire Suppression Division
  • This division is responsible for responding to fires, hazardous material incidents, and other emergencies. Firefighters are highly trained to handle various fire scenarios, perform rescues, and provide emergency medical assistance. 

• Fire Prevention Division 

• • The Fire Prevention Division focuses on reducing fire risks through inspections, code enforcement, and public education. The Fire Marshal ensures buildings comply with fire safety codes and regulations, while educational programs aim to raise awareness about fire prevention and safety practices. 

• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division 

• • OFPD provides advanced life support (ALS) and basic life support (BLS) services. Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics respond to medical emergencies, providing critical care. 

• Training Division 

• • This division ensures that all personnel receive ongoing training and professional development. Training programs cover fire suppression techniques, emergency medical procedures, handling hazardous materials, and other essential skills. 

Services and Programs 

• Fire and Emergency Response 

• • The OFPD is equipped to respond to a wide range of emergencies, including structural fires, wildfires, vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, and hazardous material spills. The district operates multiple fire stations strategically located to ensure rapid response times. 

• Fire Safety Education 

• • The district offers fire safety education programs for schools, businesses, and community groups. These programs include fire drills, safety presentations, and demonstrations on the proper use of fire extinguishers. 

• Community Risk Reduction 

• • OFPD implements community risk reduction strategies aimed at identifying and mitigating potential fire hazards. This includes conducting home safety inspections and providing smoke detector installations. 

• Youth Programs 

• • The district runs various programs for youth, such as fire station tours, and school visits. These initiatives educate young people about fire safety and encourage interest in firefighting careers. 

Facilities and Equipment 

• Fire Stations 

• • OFPD operates 3 fire stations (2 located within the City of Ozark) equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and apparatus. Each station is staffed by professional firefighters ready to respond to emergencies 24/7. 

• Apparatus 

• • The district's fleet includes fire engines, ladder trucks, rescue vehicles, and specialized equipment for hazardous materials incidents. All apparatus is maintained to the highest standards to ensure reliability and efficiency during emergencies. 

Community Engagement 

The Ozark Fire Protection District is deeply committed to community engagement. Firefighters participate in local events, parades, and public service activities, fostering strong relationships with residents. The district also maintains an active presence on social media to communicate safety tips, news, and updates to the community. 

Leadership and Governance 

The OFPD is governed by a Board of Directors, elected by the community, who provide oversight and strategic direction. The Fire Chief, appointed by the Board, manages the day-to-day operations and ensures the district’s mission and goals are achieved. 

Emergency Preparedness 

The district works closely with other local, state, and federal agencies to enhance emergency preparedness and disaster response capabilities. Collaborative efforts include joint training exercises, mutual aid agreements, and community preparedness initiatives. 

Overall, the Ozark Fire Protection District is a vital part of the community, dedicated to safeguarding lives and property through exceptional fire and emergency services. With a focus on prevention, education, and rapid response, the district ensures that Ozark remains a safe and resilient community. 

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