Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association

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FFMIA Guidance on In-Person Attendance

As the COVID 19 pandemic begins to wane, the FFMIA is exploring options on how to safely return to in-person training and meetings for the membership.  Please know that FFMIA is committed to providing a safe environment for all and will continue to follow guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) along with state and local mandates/guidance. FFMIA staff will follow all local requirements which may include, but not be limited to social distancing, restricting attendance numbers based on available space, providing sanitizer stations as needed and require the wearing of facial coverings (masks) where required by local government, or private venue.   Please see the guidance document below for more details.  

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Events Calendar

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Upcoming events

    • July 30, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
    • Valencia College-School of Public Safety (Room#-100) 8600 Valencia College Lane Orlando FL 32825
    • 7
    Register


    Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association Presents

    Co2 Safety Monitoring - 2 hr.

    Instructor: Josh Pringle, Vice President,
    Business Development and Operations for CO2Meter, Inc.

    Course is approved for 2 CEUs for Fire Inspectors and Fire Code Administrators.

    CO2 is a silent killer and can render a human unconscious within seconds. Recent injuries and deaths across the globe speak directly to the gas's deadly nature. These injuries and fatalities have also caused a rapid shift in the creation and implementation of codes and requirements for the installation and use of CO2 monitors.

    No matter the industry or size of an operation CO2 concentrations can always be an issue. Combining the hazardous nature of the gas with a lack of clear education about it’s dangers creates a “perfect storm”. When you add in a lack of clear oversight you have increased incident rates.

    This training session will briefly discuss the science of the carbon dioxide gas itself: what is it, why does it act the way it does, and how do I know it’s there? The session will also touch on the storage of CO2 under pressure. Additionally, attendees will learn how CO2 acts and reacts in typical environments as well as what the unsafe and toxic levels are for the gas. Attendees will learn some of the uses for CO2 and how it is monitored in other applications, especially where the gas is being stored and utilized in businesses in your community. The location, placement, and typical applications of CO2 systems will be covered. We will also discuss the necessities for measuring the gas, the technology behind precise gas measurement, and some of the options in detection and monitoring.

    The session will conclude with a discussion of the current and future Florida standards, as well as the as well current and upcoming changes to the International Fire Code, National Fire Protection Association code, and the National Board Inspection Code.

    The class has been approved for two (2) hours of CEUs for Fire Code Administrator, and Fire Safety Inspector I&II.

    Instructors:

    Josh Pringle is the Vice President of Business Development and Operations for CO2Meter, Inc. CO2Meter designs and manufactures gas detection and monitoring devices.

    Josh is recognized nationally as an expert in CO2 monitoring and carbon dioxide gas. He presents more than two dozen times per year on the science of CO2, codes and regulations, and monitoring to a variety of industry experts and organizations wanting to upskill and educate.

    After receiving his B.S. from James Madison University Josh held roles with Costco Wholesale, Reyes Holdings, the Corporate Executive Board, and AOL.

    Josh sits on the Board of Directors of the International Beverage Dispensing Equipment Association and is a member of the Compressed Gas Associations CO2 Committee, the National Fire Protection Associations Chapter 55 Committee, The Restaurant Facility Managers Vendor Voice Committee, as well as being the Chairman of the Neighborhood Improvement Advisory Board for the City of Ormond Beach, FL.

    Josh now lives in Ormond Beach, FL to be close to his children, Emma and Evan, and his grandson Mark.

    Date: July 30th, 2026

    Time: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

    Location:
    Valencia College-School of Public Safety (Room#-100)
    8600 Valencia College Lane
    Orlando, FL 32825

    Cost: Free for members of the FFMIA            

    Not an FFMIA member? Complete the New Member application and pay the membership fee of $95.00 to be able to use the member rate.

    Point of Contact:

    Joshua S. Pringle
    386-872-7669 office
    386-523-6622 mobile
    Joshua.Pringle@co2meter.com

    Sharon Shivers
    Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal
    1685 Providence Blvd.
    Deltona, FL 32725
    Office: 386.575.6909
    Fax: 386.860.7198
    Email: sshivers@deltonafl.gov
    Website: www.deltonafl.gov

    Phil Oakes
    FFMIA Training Coordinator 
    phil@oakes.pro or 
    307-631-0016

    RN: 19129

    Class: 309020

    • July 31, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Putnam County EOC, 410 South State Road 19, Palatka, FL 32177
    • 22
    Register


    Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association Presents

    Tactical Considerations for Battery and Energy Storage System Fires – Train-the-Trainer - 8 CEUs

    Instructor: Florida Power and Light 

    (8 Contact hours approved for Fire Code Administrator and Fire Safety Inspector)

    This Train-the-Trainer program is designed to prepare experienced fire service personnel, instructors, training officers, and subject matter experts to effectively deliver comprehensive training on lithium-ion battery fire hazards, emergency response tactics, and battery energy storage system (BESS) incidents within their own organizations.

    The course provides an in-depth review of lithium-ion battery technology, battery chemistry, thermal runaway mechanisms, fire behavior, off-gassing hazards, explosion risks, and firefighter safety considerations. Participants will examine current industry research, national standards, best practices, and emerging response strategies associated with incidents involving consumer electronics, micro-mobility devices, electric vehicles, commercial energy storage systems, and utility-scale battery installations.

    Key Learning Objectives:

    1. Explain lithium-ion battery construction, operation, and failure mechanisms.
    2. Describe the stages and hazards associated with thermal runaway events.
    3. Identify hazards associated with consumer devices, micro-mobility systems, electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems.
    4. Evaluate tactical response options based on incident type, battery technology, and operational objectives.
    5. Analyze lessons learned from significant lithium-ion battery incidents and apply those lessons to future operations.
    6. Interpret current best practices, standards, and guidance documents related to lithium-ion battery emergency response.
    7. Develop lesson plans and instructional materials addressing lithium-ion battery hazards and tactical considerations.
    8. Apply adult learning principles and effective instructional techniques when teaching fire service personnel.

    Date: Friday July 31st, 2026

    Time: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Location:
    Putnam County EOC, 410 South State Road 19, Palatka, FL 32177

    Cost: Free for members of the FFMIA            

    Not an FFMIA member? Complete the New Member application and pay the membership fee of $95.00 to be able to use the member rate.

    Point of Contact:

    Clu Wright, 386-937-0066

    or

    Philip Oakes, Training Coordinator 307-631-0016

    RN: 21621

    Class: 313010

    • August 03, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Greenacres Community Center, 501 Swain Blvd. Greenacres, FL 33463
    • 9
    Register


    Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association Presents

    Tactical Considerations for Battery and Energy Storage System Fires – Train-the-Trainer - 8 CEUs

    Instructor: Florida Power and Light 

    (8 Contact hours approved for Fire Code Administrator,
    Fire Safety Inspector, and Instructor)

    This Train-the-Trainer program is designed to prepare experienced fire service personnel, instructors, training officers, and subject matter experts to effectively deliver comprehensive training on lithium-ion battery fire hazards, emergency response tactics, and battery energy storage system (BESS) incidents within their own organizations.

    The course provides an in-depth review of lithium-ion battery technology, battery chemistry, thermal runaway mechanisms, fire behavior, off-gassing hazards, explosion risks, and firefighter safety considerations. Participants will examine current industry research, national standards, best practices, and emerging response strategies associated with incidents involving consumer electronics, micro-mobility devices, electric vehicles, commercial energy storage systems, and utility-scale battery installations.

    Key Learning Objectives:

    1. Explain lithium-ion battery construction, operation, and failure mechanisms.
    2. Describe the stages and hazards associated with thermal runaway events.
    3. Identify hazards associated with consumer devices, micro-mobility systems, electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems.
    4. Evaluate tactical response options based on incident type, battery technology, and operational objectives.
    5. Analyze lessons learned from significant lithium-ion battery incidents and apply those lessons to future operations.
    6. Interpret current best practices, standards, and guidance documents related to lithium-ion battery emergency response.
    7. Develop lesson plans and instructional materials addressing lithium-ion battery hazards and tactical considerations.
    8. Apply adult learning principles and effective instructional techniques when teaching fire service personnel.

    Date: Monday August 3rd, 2026

    Time: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Location:
    Greenacres Community Center, 501 Swain Blvd. Greenacres, FL 33463

    Cost: Free for members of the FFMIA            

    Not an FFMIA member? Complete the New Member application and pay the membership fee of $95.00 to be able to use the member rate.

    Point of Contact:

    Tyler Wallwork
    561-490-8374

    or

    Philip Oakes, Training Coordinator 307-631-0016

    RN: 21621

    Class: 313009

    • August 14, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Brevard County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), 1751 Huntington Lane, Rockledge, FL 32955
    • 28
    Register


    Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association Presents

    Innovative Performance Based Fire Treatments for Life Safety and Property Protection - 3 hrs.

    Instructor: Chris Birchfield - Global Fireproof Solutions, Inc.

    3 Contact hours approved for Fire Code Administrator,
    Fire Safety Inspector, and Fire Instructor

    This 3-hour course provides an overview of the latest advancements in Intumescent Coatings and Fire-Retardant solutions for structural steel, structural and engineered wood, upgrading firewalls, interior furnishings, fabrics, plastics, and fiberglass. In addition, a live burn presentation is included to demonstrate the capabilities of Intumescent and Fire Retardants applied to various substrates, like wood, fabric, plastics, spray and rigid foam.

    Objectives: 

    • Describe the performance features of Intumescent Coating and Fire-Retardants
    • Explain how they work to:
      o Preventing the chemical chain reaction necessary for fire ignition
      o Reduce flame spread and smoke development
      o Increase occupancy and building safety
    • •Understand the applications of Intumescent Coatings and Fire-Retardant Solutions to various substrates to meet code compliance and the GREEN building program.


    Instructors:

    Christopher G. Birchfield, (Chris), founded Global Fireproof Solutions, Inc. (GFS) and his goal is to continue to be an integral part of the business development, advancement and education of intumescent fireproofing and fire retardant solutions for life safety in the construction industry.

    Over the course of his career, Chris has been instrumental in educating the construction industry to audiences that include, Architects, Building Officials, Fire Officials and General Contractors throughout the United States and Canada.

    Chris comes from a family that is third generation in the construction industry. After receiving his BSEE in 1988, he spent several years working with cutting edge technologies being developed for the Federal Government and Fortune 500 companies.

    Date: August 14th, 2026

    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

    Location:

    Brevard County Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
    1751 Huntington Lane
    Rockledge, FL 32955

    Cost: Free for members of the FFMIA            

    Not an FFMIA member? Complete the New Member application and pay the membership fee of $95.00 to be able to use the member rate.

    Point of Contact:

    Sharon Shivers
    Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal
    1685 Providence Blvd.
    Deltona, FL 32725
    Office: 386.575.6909
    Fax: 386.575.6500
    www.deltonafl.gov

    or 

    Philip Oakes, Training Coordinator, phil@oakes.pro, or 307-631-0016

    RN: 21279

    Class: 325015

    • August 19, 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Marion County Growth Services, 2710 E Silver Springs, Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470
    • 29
    Register


    Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association Presents

    Innovative Performance Based Fire Treatments for Life Safety and Property Protection - 3 hrs.

    Instructor: Chris Birchfield - Global Fireproof Solutions, Inc.

    3 Contact hours approved for Fire Code Administrator,
    Fire Safety Inspector, and Fire Instructor

    This 3-hour course provides an overview of the latest advancements in Intumescent Coatings and Fire-Retardant solutions for structural steel, structural and engineered wood, upgrading firewalls, interior furnishings, fabrics, plastics, and fiberglass. In addition, a live burn presentation is included to demonstrate the capabilities of Intumescent and Fire Retardants applied to various substrates, like wood, fabric, plastics, spray and rigid foam.

    Objectives: 

    • Describe the performance features of Intumescent Coating and Fire-Retardants
    • Explain how they work to:
      o Preventing the chemical chain reaction necessary for fire ignition
      o Reduce flame spread and smoke development
      o Increase occupancy and building safety
    • •Understand the applications of Intumescent Coatings and Fire-Retardant Solutions to various substrates to meet code compliance and the GREEN building program.


    Instructors:

    Christopher G. Birchfield, (Chris), founded Global Fireproof Solutions, Inc. (GFS) and his goal is to continue to be an integral part of the business development, advancement and education of intumescent fireproofing and fire retardant solutions for life safety in the construction industry.

    Over the course of his career, Chris has been instrumental in educating the construction industry to audiences that include, Architects, Building Officials, Fire Officials and General Contractors throughout the United States and Canada.

    Chris comes from a family that is third generation in the construction industry. After receiving his BSEE in 1988, he spent several years working with cutting edge technologies being developed for the Federal Government and Fortune 500 companies.

    Date: August 19th, 2026

    Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

    Location:
    Marion County Growth Services
    2710 E Silver Springs, Blvd.
    Ocala, FL 34471

    Cost: Free for members of the FFMIA            

    Not an FFMIA member? Complete the New Member application and pay the membership fee of $95.00 to be able to use the member rate.

    Point of Contact:

    Dan Hickey
    FFMIA Northeast Regional Director
    352-392-1591
    Daniel.hickey@ehs.ufl.edu

    or 

    Philip Oakes, Training Coordinator, phil@oakes.pro, or 307-631-0016

    RN: 21279

    Class: 297007

    • September 01, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    • West Manatee Fire Rescue Headquarters, 701 63rd St. W. Bradenton, FL 34209
    • 13
    Register


    Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association Presents

    Tactical Considerations for Battery and Energy Storage System Fires – Train-the-Trainer - 8 CEUs

    Instructor: Florida Power and Light 

    (8 Contact hours approved for Fire Code Administrator,
    Fire Safety Inspector, and Instructor)

    This Train-the-Trainer program is designed to prepare experienced fire service personnel, instructors, training officers, and subject matter experts to effectively deliver comprehensive training on lithium-ion battery fire hazards, emergency response tactics, and battery energy storage system (BESS) incidents within their own organizations.

    The course provides an in-depth review of lithium-ion battery technology, battery chemistry, thermal runaway mechanisms, fire behavior, off-gassing hazards, explosion risks, and firefighter safety considerations. Participants will examine current industry research, national standards, best practices, and emerging response strategies associated with incidents involving consumer electronics, micro-mobility devices, electric vehicles, commercial energy storage systems, and utility-scale battery installations.

    Key Learning Objectives:

    1. Explain lithium-ion battery construction, operation, and failure mechanisms.
    2. Describe the stages and hazards associated with thermal runaway events.
    3. Identify hazards associated with consumer devices, micro-mobility systems, electric vehicles, and battery energy storage systems.
    4. Evaluate tactical response options based on incident type, battery technology, and operational objectives.
    5. Analyze lessons learned from significant lithium-ion battery incidents and apply those lessons to future operations.
    6. Interpret current best practices, standards, and guidance documents related to lithium-ion battery emergency response.
    7. Develop lesson plans and instructional materials addressing lithium-ion battery hazards and tactical considerations.
    8. Apply adult learning principles and effective instructional techniques when teaching fire service personnel.

    Date: Tuesday September 1st, 2026

    Time: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Location:
    West Manatee Fire Rescue Headquarters
    701 63rd St. W.
    Bradenton, FL 34209

    Cost: Free for members of the FFMIA            

    Not an FFMIA member? Complete the New Member application and pay the membership fee of $95.00 to be able to use the member rate.

    Point of Contact:

    Ashley Nunez
    Ashley.Nunez@nexteraenergy.com

    or

    Philip Oakes, Training Coordinator 307-631-0016

    RN: 21621

    Class: 313054

    • September 15, 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Marion County Growth Services, 2710 E Silver Springs, Blvd., Ocala, FL 34470
    • 22
    Register


    Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association Presents

    NFPA 101A - Guide to Alternative Approaches to Life Safety - 3 hrs.

    Instructor: Steve Kowkabany - Vertex 

    3 Contact hours approved for Fire Code Administrator,
    Fire Safety Inspector, and Fire Instructor

    Recent legislation has introduced NFPA 101A as an alternative approach to life safety compliance. The Florida Legislature recently passed, and the Governor signed Senate Bill 182 for Education. Inside this bill is information concerning micro schools and fire protection requirements for the occupancy. This course will discuss the intent of Florida Laws that push for alternative solutions for fire safety.  Discussion on the provisions of the NFPA 101A Fire Safety Evaluation System will be in detail to ensure best practices in fire official management of the process.  Examples of previous 101A evaluations will be discussed and the practical application for its use.

    This class will:

    • Increase the awareness of AHJ to the fire and building codes and Florida Laws as they relate to SB182 and Micro schools and alternative means of compliance. 
    • Provide knowledge to the students on the NFPA 101A Fire Safety Evaluation System
    • Give the student practice in utilizing the NFPA 101A Fire Safety Evaluation System

    Three contact hours approved for Fire and Life Safety Educator, Fire Code Administrator, Fire Investigator I and II, Fire Safety Inspector I and II, and Instructor I, II, III with these courses.

    Instructor:

    Steve Kowkabany

    Steve Kowkabany is the founder and president of Neptune Fire Protection Engineering in Atlantic Beach, Florida, which he founded in June of 2005. Mr. Kowkabany has been a practicing engineer for over 20 years. Mr. Kowkabany began his career as a project engineer and process system designer in the pulp & paper, power generation, and photographic film manufacturing sectors. He transitioned into the field of fire protection after working closely with a variety of industrial fire protection systems in a manufacturing environment. In addition to his extensive experience in heavy industrial and petrochemical fire protection, Mr. Kowkabany has extensive experience in the arenas of residential and commercial fire protection and has designed fire protection systems for over 500 facilities and has provided expert witness and third-party review services for a wide variety of projects. Mr. Kowkabany is a licensed fire protection engineer in the states of Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

    Outside of his corporate efforts, Mr. Kowkabany is passionate about advancing the field of fire protection and civic involvement. He serves as the vice-chairman of the board of the Florida Engineering Management Corporation and was recently appointed to the Florida Fire Code Advisory Council. He also currently serves as the founder and president of the Northeast Florida Chapter of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, as well as serving on the board of directors of the National Fire Sprinkler Association Florida Region

    Date: September 15th, 2026, 2026

    Time: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

    Location:
    Marion County Growth Services
    2710 E Silver Springs, Blvd.
    Ocala, FL 34471

    Cost: Free for members of the FFMIA            

    Not an FFMIA member? Complete the New Member application and pay the membership fee of $95.00 to be able to use the member rate.

    Point of Contact:

    Ken McCann, Fire Marshal Marion County Fire Rescue, 1 st Vice President FFMIA 352-291-8066 or ken.mccann@marionfl.org

    or 

    Philip Oakes, Training Coordinator, phil@oakes.pro, or 307-631-0016

    RN: 21636

    Class: 321003

    • November 02, 2026
    • 8:00 AM
    • November 05, 2026
    • 12:00 PM
    • Hilton Tampa Downtown 211 North Tampa Street, Tampa, Florida 33602
    Register


    The Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association

    Presents the

    The 78th Annual Florida Fire Prevention Conference

    Strengthening Fire Prevention Through Technology,
    Education and Innovation.

    Monday November 2nd, 2026, through
    Thursday November 5th, 2026
    At the Hilton Tampa Downtown
    211 North Tampa Street, Tampa, Florida 33602
    (813) 204-3000

    Click Here for a Conference Flyer - Full Program to follow

    Full program to be posted soon and when it is, it will be updated several times as we add additional classes. Please check back frequently for the updated program.


    You can always register through this site, but if you need a registration form:


    To book your hotel room at the group rate starting at $205 a night, please use the link below:

    Book your group rate for Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association

    Room Block Start Date: Saturday, October 31st, 2026
    Room Block End Date: Friday, November 6, 2026
    Last Day to Book: Friday, October 9, 2026

    Parking at the location is VALET ONLY.  Please plan accordingly. 

    We recommend booking your hotel rooms immediately upon completing your registration as our room block is only held until October 9th, 2026.

    No refunds for this event are possible after October 9th.  


    • November 03, 2026
    • 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Islamorada Fire Rescue, 86800 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036
    • 30
    Register


    Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association Presents

    SPEARS FlameGuard CPVC Inspector Training - 4 hr.

    Instructor: Kevin Dellinger, Technical Service Representative, Spears Manufacturing

    This program will cover all aspects of CPVC systems for light hazard applications.  We will discuss different procedures for installation based whether they are a 13, 13D or 13R classification.  We will look at proper design, installation, approved products as well as other considerations for plan review and inspections of these systems.  There will be a review at the end of the power point presentation and a hands-on training on assembling CPVC correctly using the proper procedures.  There will all be an open forum for questions and answers throughout the program.

    The class has been approved for four (4) hours of CEUs for Fire Code Administrator, and Fire Safety Inspector I&II.

    Instructors:

    Kevin Dellinger

    Kevin Dellinger is a Field Technical Representative for SPEARS Manufacturing the producer of the FlameGuard CPVC. His role is to assist engineers with design, train contractors on proper installation and to train fire inspectors on inspection/plan review of CPVC fire sprinkler systems. He has been in this role with the company since 2013 and in his current assignment he covers most of the state of Florida. He has trained contractors and inspectors in California, Nevada, Arizona, North Carolina, Virginia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia and Florida. He has completed over 250 of these training for interested parties throughout the country.

    His goal is to develop strong relationships with contractors, engineers and inspectors and to make himself a valuable resource through education for information related to CPVC fire sprinkler systems.

    Date: November 3rd, 2026

    Time: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM

    Location:
    Islamorada Fire Rescue
    86800 Overseas Highway
    Islamorada, Florida 33036

    Cost: Free for members of the FFMIA            

    Not an FFMIA member? Complete the New Member application and pay the membership fee of $95.00 to be able to use the member rate.

    Point of Contact:

    Kevin Dellinger
    Technical Service Representative
    Spears Manufacturing
    Cell 714-338-9572
    kdellinger@spearsmfg.net

    Terry L. Abel - Fire Chief
    Cell: 305-360-1917
    Office: 305-664-6490
    email: terry.abel@islamorada.fl.us

    or 

    Philip Oakes, Training Coordinator, phil@oakes.pro, or 407-232-2807

    RN: 21182

    Class: 329009

Address: P.O. Box 325 Hobe Sound, Florida 33475-0325       Frequently Asked Questions       

Phone:  772-349-1507 Email: info@ffmia.org                                                                            

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