It’s been one year since I was appointed as the Fire Chief at Osage Beach Fire Protection District. As challenging as 2020 has been due to the pandemic, like firefighters and EMS workers across the county, OBFPD planned early and endured to remain ready and dedicated to serve the citizens and visitors of this District.

In addition to planning for and reacting to the pandemic, we continued to look forward and prepare for 2021 and beyond. In 2020, OBFPD: 1) executed plans and took delivery on two new Rosenbauer fire engines which replaced our two 20-year old reserve engines. 2) With the assistance of Precision Fire Apparatus in Camdenton, we refurbished one of our fireboats, complete with an upgraded fire pump, new sonar and navigation electronics, and a fresh look. 3) We placed a build-order for new 2000 gpm fireboat which will arrive next summer and greatly improve our water response capabilities. 4) We are building a new obfire.com website adding to the current valuable information, certified secure features, and professional look that is expected of today’s professional fire service.

We take pride in our commitment to being engaged in the community we serve. OBFPD staff is highly trained and are dedicated individuals, whose number one priority is service to the community, the same community they live in. Each member is here to assist you and your family in whatever capacity we can. We strive to provide a high quality of life for our residents, and take a modern day approach to firefighting and emergency medical services that emphasizes treating our community as extended family. The District Vision statement is “Our Family Protecting Your Family Because We Care”.

As of this writing, COVID vaccines are being administered to health care workers and residents in care facilities. While I’m confident that we’ll come out of this pandemic in 2021, do not let your guard down, continue to help us help you; wear a mask, social distance, and wash your hands frequently. I encourage you to vaccinate as soon as your turn comes.

I truly look forward to serving this community and the members of this District in my role as Fire Chief. Please stay safe and well in 2021.

In Service,

Paul Berardi
Fire Chief