Message from our Fire Chief

Dear Community Members,

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Seven Hills Board of Trustees for entrusting me and my command staff with the responsibility of leading Seven Hills Fire District. It's an immense honor, and one that I accept with deep humility and determination.

Allow me to share a bit about my journey. My foray into the Fire/EMS world began right here in Seven Hills twenty-four years ago. Starting with an EMT-Basic License, I served with Mobile County Emergency Medical Services, responding to calls in this area. Transitioning to the fire department opened a new chapter in my life, propelling me from ambulance duty to handling SCBAs and maneuvering a forty-thousand-pound firetruck. My professional path led me through various roles, including a stint as a 911 Dispatcher for Mobile County EMS and later as a Fire Service Captain with Mobile Fire Rescue. Each step has been guided by mentors and colleagues who have shaped my nearly nineteen years in the fire service. Returning to where it all began in Seven Hills is a humbling experience for me.

Here's a glimpse into our current focus areas:

Training: We're actively engaged in orienting new members and refreshing the skills of returning members. Our training regimen includes both classroom instruction and hands-on exercises, covering everything from basic firefighting techniques to emergency medical procedures. We're fortunate to have a robust training complex behind Central Fire Station, facilitating comprehensive training sessions. Additionally, we encourage our firefighters to pursue certified courses offered through the Alabama Fire College to enhance their skills further.

Logistics: Our members operate top-of-the-line equipment across our three fire stations. From Class-A Pumpers to Brush Trucks, maintaining this fleet requires meticulous attention. We conduct weekly maintenance checks, schedule preventive maintenance, and ensure annual certification tests for our equipment. And yes, testing several miles of fire hose is all part of the job, much to the amusement of our firefighters!

Community Engagement is integral to our mission. While some may envision driving a firetruck with lights and sirens, our primary goal is to serve you in times of need, whether it's responding to emergencies or participating in community events. Establishing strong public relations is key to our success, and we're committed to fostering connections within the Seven Hills community.

In conclusion, I extend my sincere appreciation to you for your time and support. If you're interested in learning more about our operations, I invite you to attend our monthly board meetings or reach out to schedule a visit to our fire stations. Your ongoing support is invaluable to us, and we're grateful for the opportunity to serve the Seven Hills community.

Respectfully,

Matt Waltman

Fire Chief

Email: matt.waltman@sevenhillsfd.org

Phone: 251-455-5378