Safety & Training Bulletin: Medetomidine Overdose/Toxicity Recognition, Prevention, and Emergency Response for Medetomidine Overdose or Toxicity More Info

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Delaware State Fire Commission


Mission of the Delaware State Fire Commission


Our mission and purpose are to oversee the Operations of the State Fire Marshal's Office and the Delaware State Fire School as well as protecting life and property from fire within our State, we also oversee the training and certification of all Emergency Medical Technicians and Firefighters by providing Professional Standards for Fire and EMS.

The Fire Commission is committed to the safety of our state, while providing educational training through the delivery of public education, code enforcement, fire suppression and life saving measures.

A Message from the Executive Director


On behalf of all the Fire Commissioners, I welcome you to our website where our main mission is committed to the prevention of fires and education within our state.


The State Fire Commission was established in 1953 and oversees the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the State Fire School operations. As our Governor appoints each commissioner, they each serve a term of 4 years while having the opportunity to be reappointed by the Governor to serve no more than 12 years.


We strive to improve fire and emergency services through leadership, education, and trust. We continue to advance with new technologies while providing compliance and oversight within the emergency services communities.


Executive Director Sherry Lambertson

Photograph of Sherry Lambertson


Division of Professional Standards and Regulations


The Professional Standards and Regulation Division is committed to protecting public safety by ensuring that all certified EMS personnel meet and maintain the highest levels of professional competence.

The division is responsible for issuing certifications and licenses, enforcing EMS protocols, and upholding all relevant regulations. Through oversight, we ensure that every certified provider is qualified, accountable, and dedicated to excellence in emergency medical services.



Fire and Overdose Deaths in Delaware (YTD)

Fire Deaths in 2025: 4

  • Without Smoke Detectors: 2
  • With Smoke Detectors: 2
  • With Fire Sprinklers: 0
  • Without Fire Sprinklers: 2

Total Fire Deaths in 2024: 20

  • Without Smoke Detectors: 13
  • With Smoke Detectors: 4
  • With Fire Sprinklers: 1
  • Without Fire Sprinklers: 19

Overdose Deaths in 2025: 333

Total Overdose Deaths in 2024: 188

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