About the Author

As an engineer in the water/wastewater industry for the last 15 years, Karen McHale has helped cities and towns oversee their safety programs and work to keep their facilities and personnel safe. This training covers everything from OSHA regulations, standard practices and preparedness to Homeland Security assessments for credible threats. As a volunteer firefighter, at Station 2, McHale responds to all types of emergencies in the County where she lives. As a member of the Clear Creek County Wildfire Team in Idaho Springs, Colo., she acts as either the planning/logistics person, safety officer or a firefighter in emergencies. She holds several certifications in emergency response and trains personnel in the incident command management system. McHale is married with two sons, for whom she used to make the Fire Buddies when they were young. In 2009, she bought a $50 raffle ticket and won a $1.2 million home. Winning (and selling) the home has allowed her to develop the Fire Station Buddies and now train children all over the country.