1st SOW Fire Prevention Program named best in AF Published May 20, 2008 By Lisa Pinter 1st SOW Public Affairs HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- The 1st Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron recently brought home the Air Force Fire Prevention Program of the Year award. This is the first time in 13 years the 1st SOCES has received this award. "The winners in the past have set the bar very high," said Assistant Fire Chief for the Fire Prevention Program Donald Savidge. "It's an honor just to be nominated for the award, but winning validates the hard work of the entire civil engineer squadron." This particular award recognizes the most outstanding fire prevention program for their achievements, dedication and accomplishments regardless of location or size. "We had one of the top programs because of our improved buildings and cooking facilities," said Staff Sgt. Audrey Meininger, 1st SOCES. During nominations, a document describing significant achievements and contributions had to be filled out using specific headlines and attention to detail. Some things to keep in mind while nominating a department are upkeep of fire prevention inspections, education programs and the introduction of new ways to be innovative. "The department carries this out through use of electronic methods, record keeping, extinguisher training and construction plan reviews," Mr. Savidge said. More than 4,800 base employees received fire extinguisher training, and the department performed detailed fire safety evaluations of 34 local lodging establishments. The department also worked to make sure the commissary's improperly vented ovens were fixed, saving the facility $9 million. The department works with the public in developing fire safety as well. "As technology improves, so does our capability to serve our customers," Mr. Savidge said. Safety education was provided to 78 new housing residents, reducing fire loss by 46 percent. In addition to all these accomplishments, the 1st SOCES also provided a seminar to six college students interested in an aeronautical degree which aids in professional development. "The prevention program means everyone on Hurlburt Field does the right thing every day to ensure life and fire safety," Mr. Savidge said. The 1st SOCES program will now compete against the other military services in the Department of Defense Fire Emergency Services Awards Program.