UPDATE: West Fargo Fire Marshal Dell Sprecher is not slowing down after nearly 40 years in the firefighting profession. Just honored for his 35 years of dedicated service, the 65-year-old firefighter is fully committed to his role, emphasizing the urgent need for community safety in a growing city.
At a recent award banquet, Sprecher was celebrated for his remarkable tenure with the West Fargo Fire Department. His journey began in 1988, when he joined a volunteer department serving a community of fewer than 5,000 people. Today, he leads a fully paid city department that now serves almost 40,000 residents, a significant transformation that he helped facilitate in 2018.
“It’s been nice to be part of this change,” Sprecher stated. “We’re now able to respond to a wider range of calls, including medical emergencies.” His promotion to fire marshal coincided with the department’s transition to full-time professionals, allowing him to focus solely on fire safety and community risk reduction.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, only 10% of career firefighters were over the age of 60 in 2022, making Sprecher’s long service even more remarkable. “Most firefighters have careers that span 25 to 30 years,” he noted, highlighting the rarity of his position.
Fire Chief Dan Fuller praised Sprecher’s adaptability and institutional knowledge, stating, “Dell has shown his ability to change and adapt to new ideas in the fire service. He sets the example of embracing change, even in his 35th year of service.” This adaptability has been crucial as the fire department expands its role in the community.
Sprecher leads the West Fargo Risk Reduction Division, which is vital for conducting compliance inspections and fire safety education. His innovative programs connect fire department responders with local services to address non-emergency issues, significantly reducing repeat 911 calls. Fuller emphasized, “His team has saved hundreds of 911 calls a year,” showcasing the direct impact of Sprecher’s leadership.
Despite the demands of the job, Sprecher remains enthusiastic. “If you like what you do, why stop doing it?” he reflected. With plans to continue his work, he expressed gratitude for being able to focus on one primary role after years of juggling multiple responsibilities.
Sprecher’s journey from a liquor truck driver to a fire marshal illustrates the profound impact one individual can have on a community’s safety. His commitment to improving lives in West Fargo is clear, and as he looks ahead, he shows no signs of retreating from the frontline of firefighting.
As West Fargo continues to grow, the importance of dedicated leaders like Sprecher cannot be overstated. Expect further developments from the West Fargo Fire Department as they implement new strategies to enhance community safety and well-being.
