Recognizing Our Heroes: Nominations Now Open for 2026 Ohio Fire Service Hall of Fame and Fire Awards

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of State Fire Marshal and Ohio Department of Public Safety's Division of EMS are now accepting nominations for the 2026 Ohio Fire Service Hall of Fame and Fire Awards. This annual event honors the extraordinary bravery, commitment, and service of Ohio's fire service professionals, departments and educators, as well as citizens who have demonstrated outstanding achievements or heroism.

Nominations for the 45^th annual awards ceremony will remain open through December 31, 2025. Award recipients will be honored at a special ceremony in spring 2026, where we will recognize those who have gone above and beyond in their duties, exemplifying the finest traditions of fire service. Nominations can be submitted by visiting com.ohio.gov/HOFNOM. Those nominating individuals are encouraged to carefully read the criteria for each award to ensure their nominee is eligible.

Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon says this event serves as a powerful reminder each year of the sacrifices and contributions of those within the Ohio fire community.

"The Fire Service Hall of Fame and Fire Awards is always one of my favorite events of the year," said Marshal Reardon. "These awards allow us to shine a bright light on the remarkable individuals who risk their lives and dedicate themselves to protecting communities throughout Ohio. Not only is it a privilege to recognize our heroes, this is also an opportunity to inspire others to follow their incredible example."

Last year, 22 individuals were recognized for their heroic actions and commitment to public safety.

Nominations of deserving candidates will be accepted in the following award categories:

• Ohio Fire Service Citizen's Award - Honoring citizens who save or attempt to save lives in emergency situations at great personal risk.

• Ohio Fire Service Valor Award - Recognizing extraordinary acts of heroism by fire service members under dangerous circumstances.

• Ohio Fire Service Distinguished Service Award - Celebrating individuals whose leadership and contributions have significantly advanced fire services in Ohio and beyond.

• Ohio Fire Department of the Year Award - Highlighting a department that exemplifies exceptional impact and leadership within its community.

• Ohio Fire Service Instructor of the Year Award - Recognizing a fire service educator whose teaching has significantly advanced fire service training.

• Ohio Fire Officer of the Year Award - Honoring outstanding leadership exhibited by a fire officer.

• Ohio Fire Prevention Educator of the Year Award - Recognizing innovative prevention education efforts and their impact on communities.

• Ohio Fire Educator Lifetime Achievement Award - Celebrating long-term, impactful contributions to fire service education at the local, state, or national level.

For a complete description of awards, eligibility requirements, and submission guidelines, visit the Hall of Fame and Fire Awards webpage. Submissions should include supporting documentation such as narratives, fire reports, letters of recommendation, and other relevant materials that demonstrate why the nominee is deserving of recognition.

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About the Division of State Fire Marshal

The Division of State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.