Dunedin Firefighter Recognized For Leadership, Devotion, Innovation

DUNEDIN, FL —The Dunedin City Commission has recognized Dunedin Paramedic Kyle Sanford with the Firefighter of the Year Award.

The annual award is presented to a firefighter nominated by peers each October during National Fire Prevention Month.

Sanford started with Dunedin Fire Rescue in May 2017. He is currently certified as a driver engineer and truck driver, and he also serves as a deckhand on the Dunedin Fire Boat.

Sanford has been described as confident, selfless, adaptive, resourceful, passionate and determined by his peers.

He has moved into a senior firefighting position where he mentors the many new hires who have little to no firefighter or paramedic experience. He displays the patience, wisdom and coaching skills of a leader within the Dunedin Fire Rescue.

Sanford is also on the Dunedin Fire Rescue Apparatus Design and Equipment Committee, where he was instrumental in creating the identification booklet for equipment usage and specs on the fire trucks.

Additionally, he identified, researched and presented alternative solutions for high-rise hose lines and pre-connect nozzles that will better protect the firefighters and residents.

"Firefighter/Paramedic Kyle Sanford is a very devoted member of Dunedin Fire Rescue and it is apparent by his passion and love of the job," said Dunedin Fire Rescue Chief Jeff Parks. "He is always looking for ways to improve the department and, therefore, is a very worthy recipient of this year's Firefighter of the Year award."