Behind the Scenes at the Emergency Response Center: My First Week in the Orange County Mayor’s Citizens Academy

Living in Orange County, Florida, has always been a source of pride for me. The vibrant culture, the welcoming community, and the continuous growth make it an incredible place to live. When I learned about the Orange County Mayor’s Citizens Academy, I was thrilled at the chance to dive deeper into the workings of our local government and gain a better understanding of how our community operates.

I was so excited to be included as part of The Mayor’s Citizens Academy, a dynamic 9-week program designed to offer participants an interactive, first-hand look into their local government. This program provides comprehensive insights into Orange County’s operations and services, allowing participants to engage with county leadership and experience guided tours of various government facilities. As a member of this academy, I am not only learning about the intricacies of government functions but also strengthening my connection to the community I love.

An Exciting Beginning

Our first week kicked off at the Emergency Response Center, a critical hub for ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. As we entered the center, I was struck by the modern design of the room, filled with workstation tables and surrounded by video screens. The presence of landline phones, a part of the preparedness system in case of disaster, highlighted the thorough planning that goes into maintaining communication during emergencies.

We were greeted by Mayor Jerry Demings, whose enthusiasm and kindness set the tone for the entire experience. He shared his deep connection to Orange County. His sincerity and passion for the community were evident as he talked about his family, including his wife, Former Congresswoman Val Demings and their three sons. Two of his sons serve with the Orange County Fire Department, exemplifying the Demings family’s commitment to the community. The Demings are true local treasures and have always felt like home to me.

A Look Inside Emergency Preparedness

Our visit to the Emergency Preparedness Center was further enriched by Fire Chief James Fitzgerald, who welcomed us with humor and warmth. He explained the center’s role in coordinating emergency responses and asked us to look overhead, where signs marked the various departments that would be called upon during emergencies. In addition to fire and police, I noticed departments like animal control, detentions, water, and electric services. Knowing that such a comprehensive network of professionals is dedicated to keeping our community safe gave me a profound sense of security.

The experience continued with an exciting tour of the various fire safety vehicles. We saw ambulances, fire trucks with ladders of different sizes, and even a truck designed for scuba rescue. I learned that the Orange County Fire Department is among the best in the country, thanks to its strong culture of training and excellence. This dedication has earned them the prestigious ISO Property Protection Class 1 rating, ensuring rapid and effective responses in fire suppression, emergency medical situations, technical rescues, hazardous materials incidents, and water rescues.

It Got Real!

One of the highlights of our visit was witnessing a staged car crash with crash dummies, followed by a live demonstration of the Jaws of Life rescue tool. We also saw a mock ladder rescue, showcasing the incredible skills of these professionals. Learning about the 911 systems and operations further demonstrated the efficiency and effectiveness of our emergency services. A few of us even suited up to participate in a fire suppression demo, and we all received a brief CPR and wound-healing lesson.

I was impressed by the leadership team for Fire Rescue and the many other committed Orange County employees we met. In addition to their obvious passion for the community, an overarching theme was their strong acknowledgment and appreciation for taxpayer dollars, emphasizing the importance of valuing and making the most of every dollar spent.

Looking Forward

As I continue my journey through the Orange County Mayor’s Citizens Academy, I am filled with anticipation for the experiences and insights that lie ahead. This program has not only broadened my understanding of local government but also strengthened my connection to the community I love. Orange County is more than just a place to live—it’s a place where community spirit and dedication come together to create a thriving environment for all.