Meet Fire Prevention Officer Scott Strassburg

Tell us about your role.
I’m a Fire Code Enforcement Officer IV.

In what ways do you see your role within the fire department contributing to positive impacts in the community?
By ensuring safe buildings during construction and through education programs. If a fire doesn't happen, or it stays small and buys time for people to get out, we have done our part and helped protect the community.

What would you like others to know about your position that they might not know or think about?
We get to go see places most do not, and we learn about all kinds of diverse things and processes that people can teach us during an inspection. I learn something new every day about how things are made, fixed, people's passions, and the history of so many things in Madison.

Why did you want to work for the Madison Fire Department?
They had an opening for a fire inspector, and I knew I could make a difference. Maybe something bad never happens because of something I did or something I taught someone. 

What was your career prior to MFD?
I was a technician working on early computer systems, laser printers, and copiers.

What advice would you give to someone hoping to join the MFD?
Learn first to be a good person. We can teach you the rest. 

Is there anything else you'd like to share about yourself?
I’ve been in the fire service for over 30 years serving in many roles, from firefighter to Division Chief. I’m currently a member of the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 1031 committee that sets the standards for being a Certified Fire Inspector. I also served as a subject matter expert on several Fire Inspection and firefighter training manuals for the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) and Fire Protection Publications (FPP), part of Oklahoma State University. All of that would not be possible without support from Madison Fire.