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Assistant Chief Downey with Dr. Jennifer Bencie

The Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Emergency Medical Services recently recognized Assistant Chief Julia Downey, of the Davie Fire Rescue Department, with an EMS Disaster Preparedness and Response award.

This is the first time this award has been given. It honors individuals who show exceptional proficiency in developing response plans and have made significant contributions to help prepare Florida for health and medical responses to significant emergencies or disasters.

“Assistant Chief Downey is an asset to Davie Fire Rescue. We’re very proud of her efforts in the EMS area,” said Fire Chief Joe Montopoli.

Downey has worked diligently, locally and at the state level to prepare standards and training for the betterment of fire rescue personnel during a disaster.

She serves in a leadership role on the Disaster Response Committee for the State of Florida Department of Health which developed the following:

* Standardized mass casualty plan
* Standardized triage procedures
* Ambulance deployment plan
* Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) trailer and equipment
* Strike team leader training

“I am honored to have received this award. My first concern is always the safety of the public and our first responders,” said Assistant Chief Julie Downey.

- Scott Fishman