Koch named Fire Prevention Officer of Year

Patty Koch of North County Fire Protection District in Fallbrook was named Fire Prevention Officer of the Year on July 17 by her peers in the fire prevention officers section of the San Diego County Fire Chiefs Association.

“I was surprised and honored,” said Koch. “I look up to my peers in that group, so to be recognized by them was an honor.”

“Patty received this award because of her hard work and dedication to promote fire and life safety throughout her community and county,” said Adam Beardsley, Deputy Fire Marshal of Heartland Fire and Rescue and the president of the fire prevention officers group within the San Diego County Fire Chiefs Association. “She volunteers to help out whenever she can. She has also served as our liaison to the Southern California Fire Prevention Officers Group and updates us on ongoing fire prevention issues state wide. She has become a specialist in what she does and is always willing to share her knowledge with whoever she can else.”

Koch has worked in fire service for 16 years, the last six with North County Fire as a fire prevention officer. A significant part of her career was previously spent as a firefighter/EMT.

In performing her job duties, Koch does business and building inspections, including investigating complaints; public education; reviews new development plans; and handles weed abatement situations and complaints.

What makes Koch stand out is the way in which she has balanced the many tasks that come her way.

“I am motivated to do a good job and be helpful,” she explained. “It’s a delicate balance of being personable and kind, and also getting your job done at the same time.” Her peers obviously feel she manages the perfect balance in performing her job.

“Patty’s hard work and dedication in advancing the cause of fire prevention and fire safety has not gone unnoticed and the SDCFPOA was extremely excited to present her with the Fire Prevention Officer of the Year award,” said Beardsley.

North County Fire Chief Bill Metcalf said, “We have known for a long time what a special person we have in Patty, in the job she does for this organization. We couldn’t be prouder or more pleased for her in seeing her recognized by her fire prevention peers in the county.”

Tips for seniors from Patty Koch of North County Fire

“People age 65 and older are especially vulnerable to falls and fires in the home. North County Fire provides a fire and fall prevention program for older adults. We will come to your home and check and install smoke alarms as needed and offer solutions to keep you safe in your home. This service is free of charge. Appointments can be made by calling our Fire Prevention Office at (760) 723-2040.”