King Fire and Emergency Services has gained international recognition with the announcement of the 2009 Emergency Vehicle Safe Operation Achievement Award by the Volunteer and Combination Officers Section of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.

The announcement was made last Monday, as Fire Chief Bryan Burbidge was advised that the local fire brigade had been selected recipient of this very prestigious award.

“I am so very proud of the women and men of King Fire and Emergency Services for their dedication to safety in all aspects of our profession and I am truly honoured that our department has been recognized amongst our international colleagues,” Burbidge declared.

The award is designed to support the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and initiatives to reduce firefighter injuries and deaths as a result of vehicle accidents. This year’s award recognizes emergency service organizations which have experienced no accidents from Aug. 1, 2008 through July 31, 2009.

Over the past two years, King Fire staff has created an indepth driver training program to build assurances that the firefighting personnel respond safely when going to and returning from emergencies.

“We have policies and procedures, vehicle and operator checks and extensive maintenance programs that our staff have embraced,” Burbidge said. “Our first priority is to arrive safely, and that means ensuring our own safety plus the safety of those that travel the roadways in King Township.”

The award will be presented Nov. 6 at the annual IAFC Volunteer Combination Officers Symposium in Florida.