Governor Quinn Names Acting Illinois Fire Marshal

CHICAGO – September 1, 2009. Governor Pat Quinn today appointed veteran firefighter Dave A. DeFraties of Springfield as Acting Illinois State Fire Marshal. DeFraties replaces David B. Foreman, who is retiring as State Fire Marshal, a position he’s held since 2006.

“Dave DeFraties brings experience, professionalism and a passion for public safety to this very important position,” said Governor Quinn.

DeFraties spent more than 21 years with the Springfield Fire Department, serving as division chief, chief of staff, chief of operations and public information officer. He has worked at the Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) since 2005, most recently as the agency’s chief of staff. DeFraties also served as the interim state fire marshal from October 2005 to February 2006.

“I want to thank Governor Quinn for this opportunity and look forward to advancing the mission of the Office of the State Fire Marshal,” said DeFraties.

DeFraties’ appointment is effective today and will continue while a search is conducted to fill the position on a permanent basis.

OSFM’s mission is to reduce death, injury and property loss of Illinois citizens from fires, explosions and other hazards. Among many services, the agency provides arson investigations, fire prevention safety in buildings, boiler and pressure vessel safety, elevator safety and the personnel standards and education for firefighters in Illinois.

For more information on OSFM, please visit State.il.us/osfm/.