Richfield Fire Department Creates New Battalion Chief Position

Press release from the City of Richfield:

October 29, 2020

Contrary to popular belief, the work of a firefighter rarely involves flames. From the thousands of medical calls fielded each year, to community education and outreach and rigorous training requirements, firefighters balance countless roles.

All those tasks, coupled with a large increase in construction activity within Richfield, convinced the Richfield Fire Department to add a new position dedicated to the department’s community-facing responsibilities of fire safety.

On October 12, longtime Richfield firefighter Jenell Wood took on the new role of Battalion Chief for the department.

“Previously, I worked 24-hour rotating shifts with a crew of eight responding to emergency calls,” described Wood. “In these first two weeks on the new job, I have been adjusting to my new positon responsibilities and the daytime work schedule. Each day I am learning something new and I’m enjoying the challenge of balancing the immediate demands of our residents and the necessity of long-term planning.”

The new position, common in many fire departments, will coordinate with other city departments and the community to promote fire safety and manage fire-related inspections. This includes inspections related to the Minnesota State Fire Code, especially in new construction and multi-family housing, providing information to the public regarding fire safety and prevention, and assessing the risks within the community.

Beyond her traditionally assigned duties, Wood is looking forward to spending more time with residents without an emergency looming.

“One thing I am excited for is being able to reach out and serve the community during non-emergency situations,” explained Wood. “Typically, as firefighters, we are solving problems where we may not have time to speak to residents, or we would have to abruptly leave to respond to other emergency calls. In my new role, I will be able to dedicate a lot more time to outreach and fire prevention for both the citizens and our fire department staff.”

According to Fire Chief, Wayne Kewitsch, the new role of Battalion Chief will make everyone who lives, learns, works or visits Richfield a safer place.

“Fire code requirements exist for a reason, unfortunately usually as a result of a tragedy,” explained Kewitch. “This position will work to reduce community-wide risk through code enforcement, public education and prevention.”

The department is excited to bring Wood onto the management team, especially during a time when the need for inspections and outreach is so high.

“We really needed to add this position as the department has been busier than ever,” stated Mike Dobesh, Assistant Fire Chief. “The fire department has extremely talented members and Jenell brings a skillset that we were looking for with her organization and positive attitude.”

Wood’s promotion has led to other shifts in the Richfield Fire Department hierarchy. Tim Haider has been promoted from lieutenant to captain and Alex Crofford was promoted from firefighter to lieutenant.

As the winter months approach, Wood offers the following tips for fire safety:

• Make sure each residence has working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors on each level of the home.
• Ensure all heating appliances, such as furnaces, wood stoves and fireplaces are in good working condition.
• If you use an alternative heat source, such as a space heater, make sure you have at least three feet of clear space where nothing can catch fire. This rule is true for fireplaces and wood stoves, as well.
• Only use alternative heating sources while you are in the same room.
• Never use your oven to heat your home.
• Check for damaged cords and don’t use extension cords with heaters.

This press release was produced by the City of Richfield. The views expressed here are the author’s own.