Battalion Chief at YFD completes EFO program

The Yuma Fire Department’s Battalion Chief Michael Walton is one of only two who have completed the Executive Fire Officer program of the National Fire Academy.

The announcement was made at Wednesday’s City Council meeting, in addition to YFD being recognized as an accredited agency once again.

Chief Irr, who completed the program in 2011, pointed out that “successful completion takes individual dedication, family support, and willingness of co-workers to step up and fill in to keep YFD running smoothly” when away for classes. Chief Walton added “It was a lot of hard work, but I learned much to help me better serve my community. I appreciate the opportunity to participate in the EFO program.”

The National Fire Academy is located in Emmitsburg, MD and the Executive Fire Officer Program provides senior fire officers with a broad perspective on various facets of fire and emergency services administration.

The courses and accompanying research examine how to exercise leadership when dealing with difficult or unique problems within communities.