Genesee County Association of Fire ChiefsFocused on Fire Safety & Education

Established in 1968 with the objective “to provide the best possible degree of fire protection and fire prevention for the citizens of Genesee County,” the Genesee County Association of Fire Chiefs (GCAFC) has made its mark on every community in the area. Through training and organization, the association acts as the foundation of the County’s fire departments.

The objective of its fire training committee is “to provide Genesee County fire service personnel with a continuous training program that meets or exceeds all county, state and federal requirements.” Training includes all aspects of firefighting including emergency driving, emergency coordination, firefighter safety and more. In 2021, the association partnered with the Genesee Career Institute (GCI), to build and operate a fire training academy for Genesee County high school students. It was developed in response to a need for more firefighters in the County and students who sign up receive the same level of training that all firefighters receive. Upon completion of the program, students undergo written and practical examinations for certification through the State of Michigan. Once passed, students meet the qualifications of Firefighter 1 & 2, allowing them to graduate high school and immediately enter the field as a firefighter. To bolster the program, in August, the association and GCI opened a brand new, state-of-the-art training center on the GCI campus. The new facility will allow up to 72 high school students to be trained in the program.

In addition to training, the GCAFC organizes multiple strike teams in the County such as the Brush Fire Strike Team, Engine Strike Team, Tanker Strike Team and Hazmat Team. Through the fire departments, the Association also organizes the Genesee County Honor Guard to preside over a variety of community functions and dedications.

When someone becomes a firefighter, they join a brotherhood of honor, courage and integrity. To honor current heroes, the Association names and honors a Firefighter of the Year chosen from the County departments. The program was started in 1971 and last year, the recognition was given to firefighter Dan Merriam of the Flint Township Fire Department. To honor those who gave their lives in the line of duty, the GCAFC maintains the Genesee County Memorial at Flint Memorial Park in Mt. Morris.

The Genesee County Association of Fire Chiefs is committed to the preparation and advancement of our current and future firefighters for our safety and well-being.

For more information, visit gencofirechiefs.org.

The GCAFC Executive Board

President

Chief Brian Flewelling
Davison-Richfield Fire Department

Vice President

Chief Jim Bronson
Clio Area Fire Department

Secretary

Chief Don Schreiber
Grand Blanc City Fire Department

Treasurer

Chief Bob Burdette
Grand Blanc Township Fire Department

Past President

Assistant Chief Chris Fairbanks
Linden Fire Department

Trustees

Assistant Chief Gil Burwell
Forest Township Fire Department

Chief Brett Beckley
Flint Township Fire Department