Ocoee FD welcomes new captain

The Ocoee Fire Department is welcoming a new captain. 

Capt. John Ward joins the department after retiring from the Orlando Fire Department following 26 years of service. Prior to this, Ward worked with Osceola County Fire Rescue for five years.

In his new role in Ocoee, Ward will assume the duties of Emergency Medical Service Training Officer.

Ward will be responsible for everything EMS, including taking over the ordering and stocking of all EMS supplies and equipment; ensuring all personnel are well trained in EMS and stay current on the latest technology and equipment; and working with crews to help prepare them for an updated protocol book coming out from the department's medical director in the near future. 

The Ocoee FD has plans also to pursue accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services. Ward will play a vital role in this process.

Ocoee Fire Chief Tom Smothers anticipates Ward will lift the department's EMS treatment and transport to a whole new level. 

"With over 80% of our calls for service being EMS related, having a person like Captain Ward with us as our EMS Training Captain will help our crews achieve top notch service to the citizens and visitors of Ocoee," he said. "Captain Ward will work hard to ensure that all of our personnel receive continuous, hands-on training to prepare them to provide high-level treatment to our patients."