Former Oceanside Fire Chief To Get Special Award

OCEANSIDE, NY — Former Oceanside Fire Department Chief Edward Scharfberg is getting recognized by the Firemen's Association of the State of New York (FASNY).

Scharfberg will be presented with the Fire Safety Educator of the Year Award.

"Edward Scharfberg is a great example of a true leader in the fire service," FASNY President John P. Farrell said in a statement. "Educating the public, especially children, about fire safety and prevention will not only help keep our communities safe, but possibly entice students to become the next generation of volunteer firefighters.

For 40 years, Scharfberg has instructed numerous community organizations including the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce, Boy and Girl Scouts and local senior citizens groups. Each year, Scharfberg and members of the Oceanside Fire Department reach an average 2,500 Oceanside residents regarding fire prevention and safety, the FASNY said in a release.

"Chief Scharfberg has always preached fire prevention and fire safety and the results speak for themselves," Captain Mark Sparberg, Oceanside Fire Department. "The Oceanside Fire Department’s fire loss is now at historic lows thanks to his passion and tenacity for this important subject."

Scharfberg is expected to get his award during a ceremony Monday at Oceanside Fire Department headquarters.