Dalrymple Thanks State's Firefighters for Dedicated Service

Press Release

Gov. Jack Dalrymple today addressed the state's full-time and volunteer firefighters to thank them for their dedicated service and to stress the importance of meeting the needs for emergency preparedness in a state with a growing population and unprecedented commerce.

"Every day, North Dakota's firefighters willingly and courageously put themselves in harm's way to save lives and property," Dalrymple said. "Public safety is the top priority for us all, and I commend you for your dedication to protecting the lives of others."

Dalrymple spoke to about 250 firefighters during the North Dakota Firefighters Association Annual Convention in Grand Forks. As part of the three-day convention, the Firefighters Association is celebrating its 130th anniversary. About 96 percent of the state's firefighters are volunteers.

During his address, the governor also acknowledged and thanked the Casselton Fire Department, the Southeast Regional Hazardous Materials Response Team, the Cass County Sheriff's Office and other local officials who responded to the Dec. 30 train derailment and explosion near Casselton.

"It is my understanding that the emergency response to the derailment was nearly flawless," Dalrymple said. "The perimeter around the derailment site was secured, a unified command was quickly mobilized, emergency response procedures were followed and an effective assessment provided for a timely and orderly evacuation. Your response to the derailment speaks to your training and I want to thank you for your commitment to the public's safety."

Dalrymple encouraged the state's firefighters to take full advantage of emergency response training provided by the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services, the state's Firefighters Association as well as private industry and other organizations.

"North Dakota has the nation's strongest economy which is spurring population growth and unprecedented commercial activity throughout the state," Dalrymple said. "Meeting the needs of our growing state requires even greater planning and cooperation between local, state and federal emergency responders. I know that you all are up to the task and you can expect the full support of our Department of Emergency Services and other state agencies."

During the 63rd Legislative Assembly, Dalrymple supported passage of $14.5 million in additional funding to enhance the state's rural fire protection districts. The funding more than doubled state distributions for firefighting equipment and training. The state is also providing $17 million in Energy Impact Grants to support the needs of firefighters and emergency medical responders who serve in the state's oil and gas region.

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