Shakopee Fire Department 2024 Year in Review
YEAR IN REVIEW SHAKOPEE FIRE DEPARTMENT 2024
Shakopee Fire Department CONTACT US FIRE CHIEF MikeNelson...................................... mnelson@ShakopeeMN.gov DEPUTY CHIEF JoeSimon......................................... jsimon@ShakopeeMN.gov DaveGiddings.................................. dgiddings@ShakopeeMN.gov FIRE MARSHAL TomPitschneider............................ tpitschneider@ShakopeeMN.gov ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT AmberCunningham........................ acunningham@ShakopeeMN.gov CAPTAIN RobIndrebo..................................... rindrebo@ShakopeeMN.gov TimNordstrom................................. tnordstrom@ShakopeeMN.gov JustenRiley.......................................... jriley@ShakopeeMN.gov FIRE DEPARTMENT Phone..................................................... 952-233-9570 Fax........................................................ 952-233-3857 Email. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . firesafety@ShakopeeMN.gov Website..................................... www.ShakopeeMN.gov/fire FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA: @ShakopeeFD Fire Station 1: 2700 Vierling Dr. E., Shakopee, MN 55379 Fire Station 2: 1001 Vierling Dr. W., Shakopee, MN 55379
TABLE OF CONTENTS Message from the Fire Chief.. . . . . 3 Mission/Values................... 4 Fire Department Organization................... 5–6 Fire Department Divisions.. . . . . 7–8 Emergency Incidents.. . . . . . . . 9–14 Permits, Plan Reviews, andInspections................. 15 Training........................ 16 Specialized Teams.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Community Outreach.. . . . . . . . . . 18 Firefighter Safety.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Maintenance Activity. . . . . . . . . . . 20 Station1Remodel.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Vehicles and Equipment.. . . . 22–23 Preparing for the Future.. . . . 24–25 Awards and Recognition . . . . . . . . 26 Cover Photo: Firefighter Peter Czech
shares his knowledge with the next generation of public safety professionals. Design/Layout: Deb Noble, Communications Specialist
2 | Shakopee Fire Department
A MESSAGE FROM THE FIRE CHIEF
2024 was a year of significant change and progress for the Shakopee Fire Department. I am proud to highlight some of our team’s key accomplishments over the past year. Earlier in 2024, Citygate Associates presented their Fire Department Services Evaluation Study to the Shakopee City Council. This comprehensive study evaluated the challenges the department was facing and compared our procedures and operations against local, state, and federal standards and fire service best practices. It also assessed our staffing and response model in relation to community needs. The study provided valuable insights and recommendations for organizational improvements that we have been working hard to implement. In late spring, we reorganized our department administration to clarify roles, streamline communication, and improve our supervisory structure. Our paid-on-call firefighters were transitioned to part-time employees with updated job descriptions and new training requirements. We also completed a nationwide hiring process for the Fire Chief position. During the summer, we expanded our full-time operational staff from four to nine, including three captains and six firefighters. This expansion allowed us to implement a more reliable and consistent staffing model, ensuring one Captain, two full-time firefighters, and one part-time firefighter available 24/7. While this change did not increase our average daily staffing levels, it significantly reduced the strain on our part-time staff, who had shouldered most of the staffing responsibilities since the 24-hour model was implemented in 2020 due to COVID-19. Our training division made significant strides, launching our first full-time Fire Academy to ensure new staff were fully trained and prepared for their roles. We also introduced a new learning management system and increased the frequency of formal in-person training outside of daily shift training to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal standards. Additionally, we updated our accountability and Incident Command System (ICS) procedures to align with national best practices, further enhancing fire ground operations. Another significant milestone this year was completing the phase one remodel at Fire Station 1. This upgrade not only improves the administrative area but also enhances the station’s safety and functionality by creating formal dorm space for firefighters and ensuring the separation of contaminated gear from living quarters. In closing, I am incredibly proud of our department’s work this year. The dedication and professionalism of our staff are a constant source of inspiration, and I am confident that we are on the right path to meeting the future needs of our community. We are committed to providing exceptional service and ensuring the safety and well-being of every resident, visitor, and business in our city. Sincerely, Mike Nelson Mike Nelson Shakopee Fire Chief
2024 Year in Review | 3
Mission Statement The mission of the Shakopee Fire Department is to provide effective, efficient, and innovative fire and rescue protection services. We are committed to the safety of the community through the delivery of public education, code enforcement, fire suppression, and rescue services. Vision The vision of the Shakopee Fire Department is to be a progressive organization that leads the community
in public safety using a professional, reliable, predictable, and sustainable staffing model. Core Values PRIDE Respect our traditions, preserve our history, recognize achievements, and embrace innovation HONOR Exhibit strength in character and personal integrity at all times INTEGRITY Maintain the highest ethical standards and honesty SERVICE Act in the best interest of the safety of our community
QUICK FACTS:
Total number of incidents in 2024: 1,938 Percent increase of incidents since 2023: 12% Total number of call-backs: 103 Number of simultaneous incidents: 163 (8%)
Jurisdiction size: 51.5 sq. miles Jurisdiction Population (Shakopee, Louisville Township, and Jackson Township): 49,400 Number of visitors to area attractions in 2024: 11,000,000
Did You Know? Shakopee’s first fire department was created in 1883
after fires in the 1870s destroyed many homes and businesses.
4 | Shakopee Fire Department
FIRE DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION
FIREFIGHTERS
Russell Barry
Danny Bouavichith
MIKE NELSON Fire Chief
Tom Breeggemann
Peter Czech
Eric Dircks
Darren Giese
Jackson Gieseke
Danielle Heier
Keith Heinzen
JOE SIMON Deputy Chief
DAVE GIDDINGS Deputy Chief
Zak Hoffman
Brad Horsmann
Keith Jellinger
Dann Kasallis
Ryan Lundy
Tim Mahoney
TOM PITSCHNEIDER Fire Marshal
AMBER CUNNINGHAM Admin. Assistant
KENT ANGLIN Lieutenant
Corey Murray
Todd Nellermoe
Brad Purrington
Mason Runyan
Dominick Schleper
KEVIN PASS Lieutenant
Adam Schmitz
JUSTEN RILEY Captain
TIM NORDSTROM Captain
ROB INDREBO Captain
Samuel Schwaesdall
Colton Seekins
Part-Time Firefighters
Jay Sims
Nate Theis
Full-Time Firefighters
Full-Time Firefighters
Full-Time Firefighters
Andy Toczek
2024 Year in Review | 5
FIRE DEPARTMENT ORGANIZATION
STAFFING: BY THE NUMBERS The Shakopee Fire Department is a combination
incidents, the department relies on emergency call-backs for additional support, with response dependent on the availability of off-duty personnel. The Shakopee Fire Department operates Fire Station 1 with a minimum daily staffing level of three personnel. This typically consists of one Captain and two Firefighters on duty 24/7. Part-time firefighters are utilized to augment the full-time crew with one firefighter during the daytime and one during the nighttime hours. Fire Station 2 is currently unstaffed, relying on emergency call-backs for response. Emergency call-backs are utilized to augment on-duty staffing during periods of high call volume or complex incidents, ensuring adequate resources to respond effectively. There were 103 emergency call-backs in 2024 recalling between two to 18 of the 27 off-duty firefighters, with an average of eight firefighters per call-back.
department with 14 full-time and 22 part-time staff. The administrative team, including the Fire Chief, Deputy Chiefs, Fire Marshal, and Administrative Assistant, work a standard 40-hour week, with additional coverage responsibilities during nights and weekends. The operational staff consists of both full-time and part-time personnel working 24-hour shifts. There are three rotating full-time shifts, each with a Captain and two Firefighters, and each shift is supplemented by an additional part-time position. Daily staffing ranges from a minimum of three personnel operating an Engine out of Station 1 to a maximum of four personnel operating both an Engine and a Rescue. During large-scale or overlapping
TOTAL STAFFING Fire Chief
1
DAILY STAFFING Admin Staff (M–F, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.)
Deputy Chief
2
5
Fire Marshal
1
Maximum Daily Line Staff (24-hour)
4
Administrative Assistant
1
Minimum Daily Line Staff (24-hour)
3
Captain
3
Percent of Time at Minimum Staffing
11%
Full-time Firefighter
6
Average Emergency Call-Back Response
8
Part-time Firefighter
25
Total:
39
6 | Shakopee Fire Department
FIRE DEPARTMENT DIVISIONS
Fire department operations encompass a wide range of activities aimed at preventing and mitigating fires and other emergencies.
ADMINISTRATION The Administration Division of the Shakopee Fire
Department, led by the Fire Chief, is responsible for the strategic oversight of the department. This division ensures compliance with state and federal regulations while overseeing critical functions such as recruitment, retention, personnel management, and scheduling. Additionally, it handles payroll, maintains departmental policies, and is responsible for developing and managing the annual budget, ensuring that financial resources are allocated efficiently to meet the needs of the department and the community it serves. OPERATIONS The Operations Division, led by Deputy Chief Joe Simon, is essentially the heart of the department’s emergency response capabilities. It’s responsible for the “boots on the ground” actions that directly protect the community. Here’s a breakdown of their key responsibilities: ■ Fire Suppression: This is the core function, involving extinguishing fires in structures, vehicles, and wildland areas. Firefighters use various techniques, including water application, foam application, and ventilation. ■ Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Firefighters provide emergency medical care to the public: – Basic life support (BLS): Providing medical care such as CPR and first aid.
Fire Chief Mike Nelson’s badging ceremony on June 4, 2024.
■ Rescue Operations: Firefighters are trained to rescue people from a variety of hazardous situations, such as vehicle extrication, water rescues, and confined space rescues. ■ Hazardous Materials Response: Firefighters are equipped to handle incidents involving hazardous materials, such as chemical spills and leaks. ■ Equipment and Technology: A wide range of specialized equipment is utilized and maintained, including fire engines, ladders, rescue tools, breathing apparatus, and much more. ■ Incident Command System (ICS): A standardized system for managing emergency incidents, ensuring effective communication and coordination among responders. Shakopee firefighters are trained and operate using the Blue Card Incident Command Training and Certification Program designed to train and certify firefighters to serve as Incident Commanders (ICs) for local events.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): All Shakopee firefighters are trained to this level, providing critical medical assistance to people in need.
Shakopee Fire’s full-time staff after completing live fire training during the full-time Fire Academy.
2024 Year in Review | 7
FIRE DEPARTMENT DIVISIONS
TRAINING The Training Division, led by Deputy Chief Dave Giddings, plays a crucial role in ensuring that firefighters are well prepared to handle a wide range of emergencies. It’s responsible for maintaining the competency and readiness
of the fire department’s personnel, ensuring that they are prepared to protect the community and their duties encompass: ■ Providing Initial and Ongoing Training ■ Ensuring Compliance with Standards ■ Developing and Updating Training Programs ■ Promoting Safety ■ Specialized Training
The Annual Open House is an excellent opportunity to interact with the community, feature live demonstrations, and provide family-friendly activities.
Firefighters practice EMT exercises during training.
FIRE PREVENTION AND PUBLIC EDUCATION
Fire Prevention: ■ Inspections: – Conducting inspections of commercial and residential buildings to identify and correct fire hazards. – Enforcing fire codes and regulations. ■ Plan Review: – Reviewing building plans to ensure they meet fire safety standards. ■ Hazard Assessment: – Identifying and mitigating potential fire hazards within the community. Public Education: ■ Community Outreach: – Providing educational programs to schools, businesses, and community groups on fire safety topics. – Distributing fire safety information and materials. ■ Fire Safety Training: – Teaching people how to prevent fires, how to react in case of a fire, and how to use fire extinguishers. – Promoting the importance of smoke detectors and escape plans. ■ Risk Reduction: – Working to reduce the communities risk of many hazards, not just fire, but also things like falls, and other home safety.
Under the direction of Fire Marshal Tom Pitschneider, the Fire Prevention and Public Education Division focuses on proactively reducing the occurrence and impact of fires and other emergencies. This division aims to prevent fires and other emergencies from happening in the first place and educate the public on how to stay safe in the event of an emergency. By combining proactive prevention measures with public education, we can significantly reduce the number of fires and injuries in the community. Here’s a breakdown of the division’s key functions:
Shakopee Fire Department along with Mdewakanton Public Safety responded to a fire inside an asphalt tank.
8 | Shakopee Fire Department
EMERGENCY INCIDENTS
INCIDENT ANALYSIS The total number of incidents for 2024 was 1,938, an increase of 210 incidents from the prior year. The Fire Department responds to a variety of incidents, which the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) classifies into nine incident types.
2024 INCIDENT TYPE BREAKDOWN Incident Type Jan. Feb. Mar.
Apr.
May Jun.
Jul.
Aug. Sep.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Total
106
Fire
2 11 10 4
5 14 7
5 12 17 10 9
30
Explosion/Overheat
5
1
2
3
4
2
5
1
1
3
1
2
857 122 253 250 318
Rescue/EMS
62 87 64 56 60 89 79 77 76 80 71 56
Hazardous Conditions 9 15 7
4
8
9
9 151314 8 11
Public Service
24 15 17 15 21 19 26 24 23 25 26 18 20 18 23 14 29 23 38 25 19 15 13 13 25 25 32 33 16 31 29 26 25 29 19 28
Good Intent
Alarm Activations
1 1
Weather/Disasters
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 1
0 0
0 0
0 0
1 0
0 0
0 0
Special Incident
Monthly Total
147 172 155 129 143 188 193 173 169 184 148 137 1,938
Change from 2023 +20 +59 +24 –11 +20 +17 +29 –7 +8 +32 +21 –2 210
FIRE
106 INCIDENTS (5%) Of the 1,938 emergency incidents in 2024, 106 (5%) of them were classified under the NFIRS as fires. This was an increase of 43 incidents from 2023. Of those 106 fires, 84 of them required fire suppression activities, and 33 resulted in a loss greater than $1,000.
Fires in Building
48 (47% of fires)
Grass or Natural Vegetation Fires 18 (16% of fires) Includes fires in grass areas, wildland areas, and farm crop fields. Trash, Rubbish, Dumpster, and Other Outside Fires 18 (16% of fires) Includes trash fires inside buildings that were confined to the container and trash and rubbish or dumpster fires outside.
Includes structure fires, contents or equipment fires, and cooking fires confined to container or that only produced smoke. Vehicle Fires 22 (21% of fires) Includes fires in any type of mobile property including cars, trucks, and off-road vehicles.
EXPLOSION/OVERHEATING 30 INCIDENTS (2%) Emergency incidents of explosion/overheating consist of mostly burnt food. Typically, these are received as fire alarms or someone calls 911 because they smell smoke. These types of incidents are considered emergencies because they can quickly escalate to fires.
Firefighters extinguish a vehicle fire.
2024 Year in Review | 9
EMERGENCY INCIDENTS
RESCUE & EMS 857 INCIDENTS (44%) Rescue & EMS incidents include: Potentially life-threatening medical emergencies, injuries, or persons trapped where they cannot escape without assistance or danger of bodily harm. Medicals 602 (70% of Rescue & EMS) Vehicle Crashes
226 (26% of Rescue & EMS) Along with patient care, medical care, and transportation assistance, firefighters also respond to vehicle crashes to check for injuries and extricate injured and trapped patients from their vehicles. Services provided at such incidents may include spine stabilization, the application of a backboard and C-Collar, gathering patient information and baseline vitals, disassembling the damaged vehicle with power extrication tools, patient removal, traffic control, and clean-up of debris.
Firefighters perform Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) care, assist with patient care, and assist the ambulance crew in route to the hospital. Most firefighters are trained to the EMT level and provide advanced life support services 29 (4% Rescue & EMS) Some of the less common but vital rescue services provided include water surface rescue and underwater diving, ice rescue and under ice diving, rope and high-angle rescue, confined space rescue, and missing person searches. during many incidents. Specialized Rescue
HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS 122 INCIDENTS (6%) Emergency incidents of hazardous conditions include combustible flammable spills and leaks; chemical release, reaction, or toxic condition; electrical wiring or equipment problem; biological hazards; and industrial accidents. PUBLIC SERVICE 253 INCIDENTS (13%) Emergency incidents for public service primarily consist of public assists. The Fire Department employs certified car seat technicians, and these car seat installation encounters count toward public service. Other public services include assisting with persons in distress, smoke problems, water problems, home fire safety checks, and unauthorized burning. GOOD INTENT 250 INCIDENTS (13%) Good intent incidents include calls that are dispatched and subsequently cancelled in route; wrong location or no emergency found; controlled burns; steam or gas mistaken for smoke; and hazardous materials incidents where none were present. ALARM ACTIVATIONS 318 INCIDENTS (16%) When an alarm is activated, there’s always potential for smoke, fire, or other hazardous material conditions to be present on arrival. Some incidents can be attributed to the use of monitored fire alarm systems in commercial and residential structures while others are faulty residential smoke detectors and/or carbon monoxide alarms.
Firefighters rescue occupants from a plane crash at Scenic Heights Park.
10 | Shakopee Fire Department
EMERGENCY INCIDENTS
IINCIDENTS AND STAFFING BY YEAR
54
54
54
54
54
55
2200
53
50
2000
1,938
45
1800
1,732)
1,728
39
40
1600
1,544
35
1400
Number of Sta
30
1200
1,146
25
1000
957
910
20
800 Number of Incidents
15
600
10
400
5
200
0
0
2021
2024
2018
2020
2022
2023
2019
Incidents
Sta
In 2024, the department saw a 12.15% increase of incidents with a 27% decrease in staffing.
Firefighters respond to a garbage truck accident on Hwy. 101.
2024 Year in Review | 11
EMERGENCY INCIDENTS
BREAK DOWN OF INCIDENTS BY DAY OF WEEK
340 280 300 320 260
299
290
285
282
274
265
243
240
220 200
180
160
100 120 140
0 20 40 60 80
Monday
Friday
Sunday
Wednesday
Tuesday
Saturday
Thursday
INCIDENTS BY HOUR OF DAY
128
130
120
119
118
120
112
109
108
110
106
102
100
100
95
95
91
90
80
76
71
70
60
56
56
53
51
50
Total Incidents
45
40
33
33
32
29
30
20
10
0
6
13
11
18
20
19
8
4
14
1
7
2
15
3
22
0
9
10
21
16
23
12
17
5
Hours of Day
12 | Shakopee Fire Department
EMERGENCY INCIDENTS
INCIDENTS BY DISTRICT District
2023
2024
City of Shakopee
1,643
1,831
Jackson Township
28
41
Louisville Township
29
42
Out of District/Mutual Aid
28
24
Total
1,728
1,938
INCIDENT TYPE DETAILS Incident Type
2023
2024
100–Fire
63
106
200–Explosion/Overheat
49
30
300–Rescue/EMS
801
857
400–Hazardous Conditions
101
122
500–Public Service
201
253
600–Good Intent
204
250
700–Alarm Activations
302
318
900–Special Incident
7
2
Total
1,728
1,938
MUTUAL AID SUMMARY Aid Given or Received
2023
2024
Mutual aid given
24
24
–
Automatic aid given
4
Mutual aid received
8
18
Automatic aid received
12
24
1,684
1,868
None
Total
1,728
1,938
*Automatic Aid—sent by dispatch on initial alarm.
2024 Year in Review | 13
EMERGENCY INCIDENTS
FIRE LOSS Fire loss is attributed to both property loss and contents loss. As part of the fire investigation process, estimated values and loss of property and contents are determined. The overall fire loss is calculated based on these estimates. The total fire loss for 2024 was $7,189,432 and can be broken down as follows: ■ Building Fires: $7,015,340 ■ Vehicle Fires: $152,300 ■ Other: $21,792
DOLLAR VALUE SAVED AND LOST Value/Loss
2024
Total Value
$122,535,224
Total Loss
$7,189,432
Total Saved $115,345,792 Value saved and loss are determined from estimated property values, web-based vehicle value searches, and insurance records. The total percent of value saved for 2024 was: 93.17%
2024 MAJOR LOSS FIRES—LOSS GREATER THAN $25,000 Date Incident Type
Total Loss
Total Value
$13,000,000
1/8/2024
Building fire
$5,000,000
$104,900
4/18/2024
Building fire
$75,000
$2,950,000
5/12/2024
Building fire
$30,000
$126,100
7/21/2024
Building fire
$100,000
$30,000
8/24/2024
Vehicle fire
$30,000
$19,824,200
9/10/2024
Building fire
$500,000
$30,000
10/5/2024
Vehicle fire
$30,000
$223,600
10/5/2024
Building fire
$95,000
Shakopee Fire, along with five additional fire departments, responded to a fire off of Minnesota Valley Bluff Drive.
Firefighters extinguish a dumpster fire.
14 | Shakopee Fire Department
PERMITS, PLAN REVIEWS, AND INSPECTIONS
PERMITS The Shakopee Fire Department issues fire permits to enhance public safety and minimize the risk of uncontrolled fires. It’s a vital tool aimed to prevent fires, protect the public, and ensure the safety of the community. In 2024, 221 fire permits with a $4,502,040.68 valuation were issued in the following categories:
Sprinkler Systems: 111 Fire Alarm Systems: 37 Other: 73
PLAN REVIEWS Plan reviews are a crucial part of fire prevention and life safety and a vital step in ensuring that buildings are constructed and renovated in a way that minimizes fire risks and protects the safety of occupants. In 2024, the department completed 412 plan reviews that included fire, building, and planning projects. Planning/Zoning: 32 Building/Fire: 380
INSPECTIONS The department conducts fire inspections as a proactive measure to help prevent fires, protect lives, and ensure the safety of the community. Key motivations are code enforcement, hazard identification, fire prevention, life safety, property protection, public education, risk reduction, and insurance requirements. The department completes inspections for all fire permits issued as well as commercial building permits and liquor and tobacco licenses. In 2024, a total of 714 inspections were completed by the
Fire Marshal and firefighters. Fire Permit Inspections: 517 Building Permit Inspections: 68 Liquor and Tobacco License Inspections: 129
2024 Year in Review | 15
TRAINING
TRAINING The Fire Department spends more time training than any other tasks or responsibilities. There are many training standards for firefighters, including requirements from the Minnesota Fire Service Certification Board (MFSCB), Minnesota Board of Firefighter Training and Education (MBFTE), Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT), and the Minnesota Emergency Medical Services Regulatory Board (EMSRB). Shakopee firefighters undergo training daily while on shift (company training). They also complete weekly department training and external training. Topics covered range from fire suppression to leadership. In 2024, the Shakopee Fire Department completed As we transitioned to our new 24-hour full-time staffing model, our career staff participated in an intensive, two week Fire Academy designed to ensure our team is united in following best practices and upholding the values of our community. Incident Command In 2024, the department certified 15 members in Blue Card Incident Command certification program. This program is designed to train, evaluate, and certify firefighters and officers as incident commanders for NIMS Type 4 and 5 (single and multi-alarm structure fires). Over 60 hours of training is required for each member. 4,819 personnel hours of training. Training highlights in 2024 included: Fire Academy
Vehicle extrication training.
Firefighters prepare for live-burn training.
Firefighters honing their skills to ensure swift and safe entry into emergency situations.
Firefighter Schleper practices applying a tourniquet on Firefighter Murray during EMS training.
16 | Shakopee Fire Department
SPECIALIZED TEAMS
SPECIALIZED TEAMS The technical rescue team receives additional training in repelling, high-angle rescue, and confined space rescue. Using rescue rope, harnesses, and an assortment of hardware, this team is able to perform specialized rescues from buildings, towers, confined spaces, and wilderness areas. The water/ice dive rescue team receives additional training in open water, ice, and SCUBA dive rescue emergencies. Using specialized water, ice rescue, and SCUBA diving equipment, this team is able to perform all types of water and ice rescue. High-Angle Rescue Training Shakopee Fire Department joined multiple other fire departments and specialized rescue teams in a three-day technical rescue training event. Attendees learned advanced high-angle rescue techniques and applied their knowledge to various rescue scenarios. Attendees spent one day at Valleyfair, one day in Bloomington, and one day in Hastings. Throughout the training, they performed rescues on the Power Tower, Corkscrew rollercoaster, rural settings involving a river and high lines, and more. Through collaboration with other cities and departments, Shakopee Fire is building strong relationships and learning from different experts.
Shakopee Fire’s High-Angle Rescue team conduct a training exercise on Valleyfair’s corkscrew roller coaster.
High-line rescue training in Vermillion Falls.
Water rescue training at Thole Lake.
2024 Year in Review | 17
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
PUBLIC EDUCATION Public education is centered around the goal of creating a safer community. The Shakopee Fire Department is involved in a variety of events, classes, and community gatherings throughout the year, which allows the team to bring safety messages to a diverse array of audiences. Throughout the year, firefighters guide various community, youth, and civic groups on tours of the fire stations,
accompanied by fire safety education information. Each October, firefighters support Fire Prevention Week activities. Firefighters also present fire safety programs at several off-site locations throughout the year upon request. This includes meetings with business owners, property managers, special needs residents, schools, and senior living facilities.
Captain Justen Riley (left) and Firefighter Corey Murray (right) visit with residents at Suite Living.
Firefighter Mason Runyan educates students in Mr. Vaughn’s class about the important work of firefighters.
COMMUNITY EVENTS During October, the department hosts its annual Fire Station Open House, providing public education and hands on activities to more than 1,000 residents. In a strong partnership with Shakopee Parks and Recreation, we coordinate fire safety events for preschool aged children. During the summer months we host a series of free pop-up splash pads at parks around the community.
Shakopee firefighters participated in a friendly competition with Shakopee Police Department at the Fitness Court Open House.
INSURANCE SERVICES OFFICE (ISO) The ISO (Insurance Services Office) rating of a fire department, also known as a Public Protection Classification (PPC), is a crucial metric that reflects a community’s fire protection capabilities. The ISO rating assesses how well the department and its surrounding community are equipped to handle fires. Insurance companies use these ratings to help determine property insurance premiums. Achieving a high ISO rating (1, 2, or 3) requires significant investment in fire department resources, water infrastructure, and emergency communications. In 2020, the Shakopee Fire Department earned a Class 3 ISO rating.
18 | Shakopee Fire Department
FIREFIGHTER SAFETY
AIR MONITORING
Using air quality monitoring instruments, firefighters can test for hazardous environments such as carbon monoxide, natural gas, propane, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, chlorine, and oxygen deficient air. Air monitoring is used to determine carbon monoxide or gas levels when alarms sound or odd smells are reported.
FIREFIGHTER HEALTH Shakopee firefighters receive annual health screenings, including blood testing, vision, hearing, resting electrocardiogram, lung capacity, and proper respirator fit.
PERSONNEL ACCOUNTABILITY SYSTEM To assure firefighter safety in every environment, the department continues to utilize a personnel accountability system for which the division officer, operations officer, and incident commander are responsible. The system ensures every firefighter working at an incident scene is accounted for. Also, each firefighter is equipped with a Personal Alert Safety System (PASS) device. The PASS monitors a firefighter’s activity while they are in a building or hazardous area and sounds an alarm should they become trapped, injured, or lost. The alarm assists other firefighters in locating and removing a distressed firefighter. INCIDENT COMMAND The department employs the nationally recognized Blue Card Incident Command Program for emergency operations. Designed to manage smaller National Incident Management System (NIMS) Type 4 and 5 incidents, the Blue Card program simplifies the incident command system by establishing best practices, standardized terminology, clear communication processes, and defined expectations for each ICS role. It provides a foundational ICS framework that can seamlessly integrate into more significant and complex NIMS Type 1-3 incidents. The NIMS system allows for the easy integration of external agencies into the overall emergency operation.
2024 Year in Review | 19
MAINTENANCE ACTIVITY
VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE The Fire Department manages the maintenance for all department vehicles and equipment, with staff performing inspections, preventative maintenance, and repairs. Any other maintenance and repairs are completed by the Public Works Department mechanic shop. STATION MAINTENANCE The Fire Department manages the facility maintenance of two fire stations. Firefighters are responsible for preventive maintenance, inspections, planning for repairs as needed, and completing minor repair work. Work requiring time or skills not available within the department is completed by City maintenance staff or local vendors.
Fire Station 1 was constructed in 1998 and is located at 2700 Vierling Dr. E., Shakopee.
Fire Station 2 was constructed in 2012 and is located at 1001 Vierling Dr. W., Shakopee.
20 | Shakopee Fire Department
STATION 1 REMODEL
In August, we completed Phase 1 of the three-phase remodel of Station 1, enhancing functionality, safety, and efficiency. This phase improved the administrative area by adding individual offices for chief staff and the Fire Marshal, a new workspace for the Administrative Assistant near the entrance to better serve the public, a small conference room, workspace for a future Fire Inspector, and a shared office supply and collaboration area. Firefighter dorms were relocated from an upper-level conference room with cubicles to individual spaces on the main level, improving privacy and reducing turnout times for emergencies. The turnout gear room was separated from living quarters to limit exposure to harmful carcinogens. Additionally, we repaired and resurfaced the apparatus floor with new epoxy, added parking lines for safety, and repainted the walls to brighten the space.
Phases 2 and 3 will focus on further improving safety and operations. Plans include creating hot, warm, and cold decontamination zones to fully separate living quarters from hazardous areas, adding a Captain’s office, a Battalion Chief’s office, and dedicated firefighter workstations. Restroom and shower facilities will be upgraded for improved privacy and to accommodate a more diverse workforce. Additional dorm space will support future staffing needs as our community grows. Updates to key functional rooms, such as SCBA maintenance, equipment repair, and storage, will improve efficiency. Lastly, new mezzanine training spaces and props will provide firefighters hands-on training opportunities for many of our training needs, while allowing staff to remain within city limits and available for calls.
Updated administrative area with individual offices for Chief staff, Fire Marshal, a new workspace for the Administrative Assistant, and a future Fire Inspector.
Conference room.
Individual dorm spaces were updated to improve privacy and turnout times.
Shared office space.
The bay area with new epoxy floor, added parking lines, and repainted walls.
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VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT
ENGINES Engine 1 and Engine 2 are sister 2018 Rosenbauer/General Commander pumpers. They have 750-gallon water tanks and 1,500 gpm pump capacity with foam capability. Engine 3 is a 2006 Rosenbauer/General pumper. It’s on a spartan chassis with 750-gallon water tank and 1,500 gpm pump capacity with foam capability.
Engine 1
LADDER Ladder 1 is a 2014 Rosenbauer/General Commander aerial platform truck. It has a 500-gallon water tank, 2,000 gpm pump capacity, a 101-foot cobra aerial platform, and is fully equipped with a six-person cab.
Ladder 1
RESCUE Squad 1 is a 2007 Rosenbauer/General. It’s on a spartan chassis and contains equipment for emergency medical responses and rescue responses requiring high-angle, rope rescue, water, ice, and diving incidents.
Rescue 1 is a 2023 Chevrolet Silverado. This is a new concept for the Shakopee Fire Department—utilizing a pickup truck and two Firefighter/EMT’s to respond to accidents and emergency medical incidents.
Squad 1
Rescue 1
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VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT
TENDER 2 Tender 2 is a new apparatus arriving in April of 2025. This apparatus’s main function is to shuttle water for fires in non-hydrant areas. This apparatus is built on a Kenworth commercial chassis and has an all-stainless steel body. Tender 2 will carry 2000 gallons of water and 30 gallons of Firefighting foam. Tender 2 will respond with two personnel; since its primary role is to shuttle water to and from the scene of a fire, it will have limited equipment. Tender 2 will carry 400' of 5" supply hose, 400' of 2 ½" supply/attack hose and 400' of 1 ¾". This apparatus will also have a 150' booster attack line (wildland hose) and a front BRUSH TRUCK Brush 1 is a 2011 Ford 1-ton, 4-wheel drive pickup customized by Foreman Fire with a water tank, pump, and hose reel unit. This vehicle is used for grass and brush fires and for rescue situations in which an off-road vehicle is required.
bumper attack nozzle. Tender 2 is equipped with a 750 GPM pump and roll pump; this will allow responders the ability to use the front bumper nozzle to extinguish brush fires while being mobile.
Tender 2
UTV Kubota is a 2020 Kubota Sidekick 850 UTV. It’s equipped with tracks and a 70-gallon water tank and pump for use on brush/ grass fires in areas not accessible by traditional fire apparatus. The unit is also able to transport patients from remote areas.
Brush Truck 1
Kubota
BOATS Air Boat 1 is a 2015 Midwest Rescue Air Boat used for open water and ice rescue. It can be used as a diving platform for open water diving, search and rescue, and as a large ventilation fan.
Zodiac is a 2020 MK2 Grand Raid Zodiac boat. It’s an inflatable boat with motor and trailer used for open water rescue and can be used for ice rescue with the motor removed.
Air Boat 1
Zodiac
2024 Year in Review | 23
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE THE FIRE DEPARTMENT’S COMMITMENT TO MEETING OUR COMMUNITY’S NEEDS
As our community thrives, we’re proactively addressing the evolving needs of our services. Here’s how we’re tackling key challenges to ensure continued safety and responsiveness. 1. CHALLENGES OF A LARGE RESPONSE AREA The department’s coverage extends across 52 square miles, including the City of Shakopee and Jackson and Louisville townships. With Station 1 as our only staffed location, drive times to many of our borders range from 11 to 15 minutes. Consequently, emergency response times are long, with calls closer to Station 2 experiencing some of the greatest delays. With continued growth in the western part of the city, consideration for adding additional on-duty staffing at Station 2 will be essential to meeting response standards identified in the Citygate Fire Department Services Evaluation Study and as recommended by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA). 2. INCIDENT VOLUME AND SIMULTANEOUS CALLS In 2024, our call volume rose by 12% to 1,938 incidents, with 8% occurring simultaneously. The increased call volume stretches our daily operational capacity of 1–2 apparatus, especially during multiple or significant incidents. Our limited staffing resources are frequently strained by
the demands of managing concurrent medical and fire emergencies. This increased call volume also impacts our capacity to conduct essential non-emergency functions, including training, fire prevention, and public education. 3. EFFECTIVE RESPONSE FORCE With a daily staffing of just 3–4 positions, we rely heavily on call-back staff and mutual aid resources for additional support. However, off-duty staff’s availability to respond to a call-back is contingent upon them being able to leave their family obligations or full-time jobs. Mutual aid resources from neighboring agencies are also experiencing staffing challenges, with response times taking upwards of 15 minutes. This impacts our ability to meet NFPA standards for an effective response force on a scene. 4. SUPERVISION AND INCIDENT COMMAND The on-duty Captain assumes all supervisory duties of staff and incident command responsibilities outside administrative staffing hours. This often involves managing high-stress incidents independently until additional resources are available. In these situations, the Captain must balance hands-on task-level work with strategic-level incident management obligations. Due to our limited supervisory staffing, our three chief officers must provide
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Fire Station 1 Five Minute Drive Time Legend Municipal Boundaries
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Fire Stations 5 Minute Service Area Station 1 Louisville Township Jackson Township 5 Minute Service Area Station 1
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This map illustrates a 5 - minu te drive time area for Fire Station 1 in Shakopee.
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1 169 . Date: 2/26/2025 The Shakopee Fire Department’s coverage extends across 52 square miles, including the City of Shakopee and Jackson and Louisville townships. This map illustrates a 5 minute drive time area from Fire Station 1. 0 3,000 6,000 9,000 12,000 1,500 Feet
24 | Shakopee Fire Department
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE
Jackson Township
SHAKOPEE
Jackson Township
Louisville Township
In 2024, our call volume rose by 12% to 1,938 incidents, with 8% occurring simultaneously.
24/7 off-duty support for staff and incident response. This model results in delays in addressing staff needs and filling strategic-level positions during incidents. Identifying solutions for increasing supervisory and incident command staffing will be essential to ensuring the safety of our staff and improving service to the community. 5. CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE Both fire stations were initially designed for a volunteer staffing model and do not align with current best practices or standards for safety features, such as gear separation from living quarters, vehicle exhaust capture systems, and decontamination zones. While Station 1’s initial remodel phase was completed in 2024, it still requires expanded dormitory space to accommodate current recruit staff and future response and supervisory staff, bathroom upgrades for privacy and functionality, enhanced safety features, and additional training areas. Station 2 requires similar updates, including dormitory construction, restroom and shower facility improvements, functional workspaces, safety upgrades, and training spaces. The department is taking a proactive approach to address these challenges by implementing innovative solutions focused on technology, data-driven decision-making, and evaluating fire service best practices: 1. TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION We are leveraging new tools to collect and analyze data. This includes a newly deployed data dashboard
that will help us identify areas for improvement and anticipate future challenges. We are also converting to a modernized record management system, developed with a commitment to pioneering innovation, a comprehensive approach, and client-centric results. 2. STRATEGIC PLANNING THROUGH DATA ANALYSIS We are developing data-informed strategies by analyzing collected data and future growth projections to effectively meet the department’s evolving needs. 3. ADOPTING INDUSTRY BEST PRACTICES We are committed to continuous evaluation of peer operational practices to implement effective solutions tailored to our needs. We are focusing on developing adaptable and dynamic crews that will operate more effectively in our new staffing model. Furthermore, collaboration with neighboring departments will also be key in streamlining procedures and enhancing response plans. Moving forward, the Shakopee Fire Department is committed to continuous adaptation and innovation to ensure we provide our community with the highest level of safety and service. By proactively addressing these challenges and embracing new strategies, we are confident in our ability to meet the needs of a growing Shakopee.
2024 Year in Review | 25
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION Congratulations to the following members of the Shakopee Fire Department for their outstanding achievements! CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: 2024 CHALLENGE COIN RECIPIENTS
This year, we are proud to recognize 10 exceptional individuals who embody the core values that drive our organization. Their dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence have earned them a Challenge Coin. The Challenge Coin is awarded to those who have demonstrated extraordinary performance and consistently uphold our foundational principles. This year’s recipients have exemplified the values of Pride, Honor, Integrity, and Service, showcasing their commitment to our mission and the people we serve.
Recipient
Values Recognized Pride, Honor, Service Pride, Honor, Service Pride, Honor, Service Honor, Integrity, Service
Tom Breeggemann
Eric Dircks
Darren Giese
Brad Horsmann Rob Indrebo Dann Kasallis Corey Murray Brad Purrington Mason Runyan
Pride, Service Pride, Service Pride, Honor
These individuals have not only met but exceeded expectations, demonstrating the qualities that make our organization strong. Their contributions serve as an inspiration to us all, and we are honored to recognize their exceptional achievements.
Pride, Honor, Service
Honor, Service
Andy Toczek
Pride, Honor, Service
MANAGERS OF THE YEAR
FIRE OFFICER OF THE YEAR Congratulations to Fire Chief Mike Scott, the Minnesota State Fire Chief’s Association’s 2024 Fire Officer of the Year! Chief Scott’s vision and dedication have revitalized the Shakopee Fire Department, with key accomplishments including modernized policies, enhanced training programs, strategic fleet adjustments, and a renovated fire station that prioritizes firefighter safety and efficiency. during organizational transitions, upheld integrity by implementing new policies and standards, and served the community through long hours and after-hours incident responses. Their innovative contributions included data driven improvements and revitalized training programs. They also fostered a positive environment by welcoming Deputy Chiefs Joe Simon and Dave Giddings were jointly awarded the City of Shakopee’s Manager of the Year for their exceptional leadership during a year of significant change. Chief Mike Nelson praised their stability, commitment to core values, and dedication to the department. They maintained smooth daily operations
change and ensuring fair, consistent leadership. This award reflects their invaluable service to the Shakopee Fire Department and the community.
Deputy Chief Joe Simon
Deputy Chief Dave Giddings
26 | Shakopee Fire Department
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