Meet Prevention Officer Lorie Anderson

Tell us about what you do as a Prevention Officer.

As Fire Prevention Officers, we are responsible for an assigned territory in the city. We conduct anywhere from 800-1000+ inspections annually. We work with the building/business owners to make sure their buildings are up to the fire codes. 

In what ways do you see your role within the fire department contributing to positive impacts in the Madison community?

Our role within MFD, in my opinion, is the most critical. Ideally, we'd make the first-responding firefighters’ jobs obsolete because we have made sure occupants’ buildings are up to code and they are following all the precautions to prevent a fire.

What was your career prior to MFD?

Prior to working for MFD, I worked for the Madison Police Department for 23 years. I started as a patrol officer, then moved to Crime Scene Investigation and Detective. I finished my MPD career as the Police Property Supervisor. It was challenging work, but I had a fantastic team of people I worked with.

What are some skills or strengths you bring to the team?

I believe one of my greatest strengths is that I am comfortable talking with people and truly want to see people succeed in their compliance with the fire codes. I recognize that businesses open and operate because they want to serve the community, whether it is providing a needed service or a delicious meal and, frankly, the last thing they are probably thinking about is if their building is up to the fire code. We are there to make sure that they are so that they can focus on their primary purpose. 

What is the most valuable career advice you’ve been given?

I remember when I was in the police academy with MPD and we were told that whether you like it or not, you are held to a higher standard because you are seen as a public servant who should perform better than most, so make good decisions and have your life in order. Not all careers are scrutinized like ours, and the things we do could easily end up in the papers.

What advice would you give to someone hoping to join the MFD?

This is a competitive job to obtain. If you don’t get it the first try, or the eighth try, keep trying because it is worth it!