State Fire Marshals’ have several responsibilities and are different in each state which includes the main aspects of fire safety.
Marshals tend to be responsible for fire safety code adoption and enforcement, fire and arson investigation, fire incident data reporting and analysis, public education, and advising Governors and State Legislatures on fire protection. Some State Fire Marshals are responsible for firefighter training, hazardous materials incident responses, wildland fires, and the regulation of natural gas and other pipelines. (NASFM)
The National Association of State Fire Marshals is a collaboration of fire officials all over the United States. All members of this association are appointed by other senior officials who then work together to discuss critical matters.
The State Fire Marshal’s responsibility in California is to “protect life and property through the development and application of fire prevention, Engineering, Enforcement, and Education.” (State Fire Marshal’s Offices, 2008) The role of the state fire marshal is significant in statewide fire prevention, investigation, and enforcement because he or she overlooks all the aspects of fire safety. Just like a manager is needed in a business to make sure all the tasks are carried out efficiently and all the goals are achieved, a state fire marshal looks over the specific state’s need and develops a plan of action accordingly. Fire marshals report back to higher government officials and advise them about laws and safety regulations of fire hazards. State fire marshal’s responsibilities are crucial in carrying out the best safety standards.
References
NASFM. Web.
(2008). State Fire Marshal’s Offices Missions and Responsibilities Links. Web.