The Fire Code Committee continues to persevere in the face of another challenging year in the fire service. As in 2008, we experienced another change in Committee Co-chairs, and have continued to face an uncertain economy. Through these adversities however, the Committee has matured and continued to be positive as well as extremely productive.

Throughout the year, the Committee became more cohesive and developed a core group of members that tackled several emerging fire prevention related issues. The Committee Co-chairs would like to recognize and thank each of the Committee members. A sincere thank you is also extended to all committees for their help and support.

Changes began in early 2009, and in March, the Co-chair vacancy was filled by Fresno City Fire Department’s Justin Beal.

During the spring of 2009 the Committee Co-chairs attended the Office of the State Fire Marshal’s (OSFM) stakeholder meetings related to the upcoming California code adoptions of Title 24 part 2 and 9. During these meetings they provided valuable input to the OSFM on various matters. The Committee also realized a long-standing vision after it submitted a California Code of Regulations Title 19/California Fire Code reprint package to the OSFM for inclusion into the 2011 Edition of the California Fire Code.

Throughout the summer, the Committee identified areas of improvement for the International Code Council (ICC) – International Fire Code (IFC). The Committee then prepared five code change proposals to the model IFC for consideration. Both of the Committee Co-chairs were fortunate enough to attend the ICC – IFC code development hearings in Baltimore, MD in October, and each of the five code change proposals submitted by the Committee on behalf of California Fire Chiefs Association (CFCA) were accepted and approved. Additionally, Committee members reviewed and formulated opinions on more than 240 proposed code changes to the model IFC. These facts are a clear indication of the talent pool the Committee has been able to recruit, develop and retain.

In the coming year, the Committee is prepared to continue the uncompromising dedication we have shown throughout 2009. The following is a list of future initiatives we will be pursuing:

• Maintaining an active and ongoing presence at the ICC – IFC Final Action hearings in May of 2010 (depending on funding availability).
• Continued leadership in the recruitment, development and retention of highly skilled Committee members.
• Strengthening of relationships with other nationally recognized organizations, our Southern California counterparts, and OSFM staff.
• Promotion of the commonality of purpose between local fire prevention officer associations and the Northern California Fire Prevention Officers.

As Co-chairs, Amber and I would like to thank each of you and our sponsoring organization for providing us the opportunity to work with such an amazing group of dedicated professionals. A large measure of gratitude is also extended to our Executive Board, and Executive Board Liaison for the continued support they have afforded our Committee.

Sincerely,

Justin H. Beal, City of Fresno Fire Department

Amber Anderson, Cosumnes CSD Fire Department