Achievements
1999- Implemented 5 ALS engine companies.
1998- Hired 1 Exercise Physiologist and 3 exercise specialists to develop and implement the fire dept. wellness program.
1996- Phase one of the OPTICOM system was implemented assisting emergency vehicles with the control of certain traffic signals.
1995- The department was reorganized and the Tulsa Fire Department Business Plan was implemented. The Business Plan, outlines each operational sections function and enhancements to increase their efficiency and effectiveness. It also improves the budgeting process and is a support document for the Annual Budget. Department personnel certified First Responder-D (Defibrillator), EMT certifications were increased as we continue to move toward the EMT-D Level and explore paramedic standards.
1994- Utilizing the three functions of the Integrated Management System (IMS) planning process of: Strategic Planning (visionary/directional), Operational Planning (short-term/specific, and Results Management (performance measurements) the Tulsa Fire Department mission was revised and a Business Plan developed. The mission Ato protect community, life, health, property and the environment by delivering quality life and fire safety services underscores a commitment to the changing needs of the community. Department personnel installed smoke detectors (Project Life) in high risk neighborhoods covering a 1.6 square mile area.
1993- The Department assumed a more active role in medical emergency response an began responding when life threatening emergencies existed. The T.F.D. began First Responder Level certification and Emergency Medical Technician training. Project Life was implemented using department personnel to install smoke detectors in high risk neighborhoods. The pilot project covered a two square mile area. Firefighter safety was improved with an SCBA upgrade, Back Power Program and infectious disease control training. The department initiated the Integrated Planning process, began addressing a Comprehensive Resource Utilization Study, and developed performance measures. Orientation sessions were conducted for minorities and women interested in employment.
1992- The Special Tactical Rescue (STAR) Team was started. An integrated information management system software package was purchased to manage attendance, training, hazardous materials site information and inventory control data. Emphasis was placed on increased funding for fire fighter safety and hazardous materials issues, e.g. upgrades in protective clothing, Personal Alert Safety System (PASS), station exhaust system repairs, and other safety equipment.
1991- Major goals include: The capability to provide timely service to all areas of the city; create and maintain community awareness of fire prevention; increase the department's ability to identify hazardous material locations and response to hazardous materials emergencies. Programs implemented included Safe Place, Fire Fighter Hearing Conservation and Hepatitis B Vaccination Programs. The first female firefighters (2) joined the department. The Fire Master Plan was completed providing analysis identifying resource allocations necessary to meet acceptable levels of protection.
1990- The Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) Team was implemented to assist department members with physical and emotional reactions to critical incidents. A five year Fire Master Plan began which included a citywide fire risk analysis. The Department received the International Association of Fire Chiefs Fire Service Excellence Award which recognizes achievement and innovation in managing resources to reduce the loss of life and property.
1989- The citizens of Tulsa approved the Enhanced 911 emergency telephone system. To improve operational efficiency a department computerization plan was developed and set into motion. The T.F.D. Video Channel was created to ensure an accurate means of communication and feedback within the department. T.F.D. T.V. augments delivery of everything from informational announcements, incident critiques, to training sessions.
1987- An 800 MHz trunked radio system was implemented with 20 channels enhancing radio communication capabilities, including dynamic re-grouping and telephone interfacing.
Other history pages
- View the Fire Department's history to 1987
- View historical fire stations in Tulsa and a brief summary about their history
