Lexington fire official chosen

Contact:  Jim Carroll 502-564-7760

FRANKFORT, Ky. (April 16, 2008) – Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet Secretary Robert D. Vance today announced the appointment of a veteran Lexington fire official to serve as State Fire Marshal.

William Swope Jr. served for 23 years in the Lexington Division of Fire and Emergency Services. Since 2002, he was the division’s chief of administration, directing day-to-day administrative operations, including compensation, benefits and payroll. He also performed duties relating to health and safety and personnel.

From 1995 to 2000, Swope served in the fire prevention bureau, where he supervised field inspectors and conducted public education programs.

“We are delighted to have someone with Chief Swope’s outstanding administrative skills in this key position,” Secretary Vance said. “His extensive experience in a major metropolitan fire department has prepared him well for this challenging position.”

As State Fire Marshal, Swope will serve as director of the Division of Fire Prevention. The agency’s duties include investigating the cause and origin of fires. The division also conducts inspections of public buildings for compliance with fire and life safety codes, and inspects manufactured housing, electrical systems, elevators and boilers. The State Fire Marshal’s staff also licenses fire alarm systems and regulates hazardous materials.

The Division of Fire Prevention is part of the Office of Housing, Buildings and Construction in the cabinet’s Department of Public Protection.