The Fire Marshal of the Year award honors an individual that has demonstrated a commitment to reduce losses associated with fire and other hazards through progressive leadership, dedication and valuable contributions to the field of fire prevention and life safety.
Since joining the Miramar Fire-Rescue Department, Chief Ray Perez has made great strides in moving the Fire Life Safety Division to new heights. The accomplishments are numerous to include:
The Complete reorganization of division’s process resulting in a substantial increase in operational functions
The Creation of a Hazardous Materials inspection program that will increase the safety and security of our stakeholders for years to come as well as mitigate identified dangers currently existing
The creation of Miramar FD radio, an educational delivery methodology in which our reach to the community has increased exponentially.
The formation of a Fire Safety Plan review educational initiative and creation of standard operating procedures. This program allowed for the reduction and turnaround of plan reviews from 3 months on average to a 72 hours maximum
The inception of digital fire reviews that allow for real time results to the design professionals- the first of its kind in our state
The creation, certification and delivery of multiple state required training courses to our first responders with no financial impact to the department
The initiatives have been surgically strategic and have not only increased the productivity and efficiency of the department, but have been accomplished in a fiscally responsible manner reducing cost and relieving the service impact on the general fund.
During his long career in the fire service, Chief Perez has been a major contributor to the operations of multiple divisions to include: EMS, Training, Special Operations Risk Mitigation, Administration, and the Fire Life Safety Bureau as its Fire Marshal, responsible for all aspects of emergency service delivery. During his 30 year tenure in the fire service, he has received multiple accolades to include, the Life Saving Award, and multiple commendations for meritorious service.
A firm believer in education, Chief Perez holds a Master’s in Business Administration as well as Finance, Leadership and Strategic Management. His undergraduate studies are confirmed in all facets related to the fire service and emergency medical services. He is a nationally certified Fire and Explosion investigator, Paramedic and Registered Nurse, and holds multiple certified instructor ratings such as, Fire Service Instructor, Hazardous Material Instructor, Public Safety Dive Instructor, Law Enforcement Firearm and defensive tactics instructor and numerous others. He maintains active membership in numerous professional and trade organizations and has served as past President and Vice President of the Miami Dade Fire Chiefs Association as well as President of the Dade County Fire Marshals subcommittee.
Chief Perez’s professional achievements are numerous and distinguished. “He is truly deserving of this recognition, and he proudly represents our city” L. Keith Tomey, III, Fire-Rescue Chief.
