Innovation Award: City of Coral Springs Recognized for Innovative EV Fire Safety Measures
The City of Coral Springs has been honored with the FMIT Innovation Partnership Award for its proactive approach to managing the safety risks associated with electric vehicles (EVs). In response to an increase in lithium-ion battery fires, the city has implemented an innovative safety initiative by installing EV Fire Blanket cabinets at several city facilities, including the Coral Springs City Hall parking garage, the Coral Springs Police Department and the Fleet Division at the Public Safety-Public Works Complex.
The EV Fire Blankets are cutting-edge safety tools designed to contain fires involving electric vehicles by covering the top, sides, front and back of the vehicle. This containment strategy is an effective way to reduce the spread of the fire to support traditional firefighting methods, which often fail to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires alone due to their unique chemical and thermal properties. Additionally, the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department has conducted extensive training and implemented policies to ensure that city personnel is prepared to handle lithium-ion fires safely and effectively while also educating the public through public service announcements on these hazards and how to reduce the risks of fires associated with Lithium Ion Batteries.
The FMIT Partnership Award recognizes municipalities like Coral Springs for their commitment to enhancing safety and reducing risks within their communities. This award highlights the city's dedication to innovative solutions and ongoing education to ensure public safety.
Insurance Leader Award: City of Pinellas Park Honored with FMIT Partnership Award for Excellence in Risk Management
The City of Pinellas Park has been recognized with the FMIT Insurance Leader Partnership Award for its outstanding contributions to risk management and safety practices. As a long-standing member of the Florida Municipal Insurance Trust (FMIT) for more than 20 years, the city has demonstrated a strong commitment to safety and proactive risk management strategies.
The City of Pinellas Park has been actively involved in numerous safety and risk management initiatives, such as hosting the 2022 FMIT HR and Risk & Safety Management Seminar at their Performing Arts Center and participating in safety roundtable discussions with local entities. The city also maintains a robust relationship with the Florida League of Cities (FLC) claims department, managing workers’ compensation and liability claims with a commendable track record. Their Safety Committee meets quarterly, and they have reimplemented a Motor Vehicle Crash Review Panel to further enhance safety measures.
Additionally, the city’s Fire and Police Departments have both received the FMIT Certificate of Safety Excellence Level 3 award, highlighting their commitment to safety excellence. Programs like the CARES Program, which focuses on fall and injury prevention, and the Heat Illness Prevention Program demonstrate the city’s dedication to community health and safety.
Risk & Safety Award: City of Boca Raton Wins FMIT Partnership Award for "Day in the Park for Safety" Event
The City of Boca Raton has been honored with the FMIT Partnership Award for their outstanding event, "Day in the Park for Safety," held at Spanish River Park. This award recognizes the city's commitment to promoting safety awareness and risk management within the community. The "Day in the Park for Safety" featured various interactive activities, including a Trailer Backing Challenge, Vehicle Inspection demonstrations, Health and Fire Safety tips and information on identifying Poisonous Plants. The event provided a fun, educational experience for staff while emphasizing the importance of safety in everyday life in the community.
The FMIT Partnership Award is presented to municipalities that demonstrate exceptional dedication to enhancing safety, reducing risks, and fostering strong community relations. The City of Boca Raton’s proactive approach to safety and community engagement exemplifies the values this award represents.
Questions? Contact Risk & Safety Management Director Ron Peters at rpeters@flcities.com.