Sanford Fire Department
Gerard Ransom, Fire Chief
Mr. Ransom is a graduate of the University of Central Florida with a B.A. in General Studies with a
minor in Economics. He is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the Florida Fire
Chiefs' Association, and the Central Florida Fire Chiefs' Association. Mr. Ransom was appointed Fire
Chief January 2003.
Mission Statement
To provide protection against the loss of life and property by fire, emergency medical services, and
mitigation of hazards to the public, both natural and manmade.
Current Services and Projects
- Fire Rescue/Emergency Response. During the
current year, the Department responded to over 8,000 incidents.
- Tower 31 special operations capabilities increased in the
areas of rope rescue, trench rescue and confined space rescue.
- EMS Bike Team.
- Formalized Station Tours and on-site displays.
- Citizen CPR classes.
- Smoke Detector Program provides and installs a
detector free of charge to needy households.
This program is funded by donations and grants.
- Automatic Defibrillator installed at the Fire Prevention
Division in City Hall to provide immediate response to cardiac patients.
- Walk-in Blood Pressure Checks are offered at all 3 Fire
Stations and at the Fire Prevention Division in City Hall.
- Juvenile Fire Setters Program. Implemented to provide a voluntary,
structured, classroom setting of education & counseling for at-risk children.
- Child Passenger Safety Program. Provides monthly
(& by appointment) car seat checks to ensure parents are aware of the
correct installation techniques and child seat restraint laws.
- Bicycle Helmet Offenders Program works in conjunction with
Sanford Police Department to provide a free helmet to those citizens who have received citations.
- Kids Safe Place Program. Implemented at all 3 fire stations
to offer a safe haven for abused or abandoned children.
- Funding for the purchase of a Fire Rescue Boat to expand
water rescue capabilities is appropriated in FY 2003/2004.