Madison fire captain named state educator of the year
MADISON – Madison Fire and Rescue Captain of Community Risk Reduction Dan Pickens was named the statewide “Educator of the Year” for his work educating the public on fire safety.
Pickens has served with the Madison Fire Department since 2006. In 2023, he moved to a community risk reduction role. In this role, he teaches CPR classes, checks and installs home smoke alarms by request, and attends and coordinates community events.
“Captain Pickens is responsible for all public education outreach programs for Madison Fire and Rescue. He delivers fire safety speeches in our schools, churches, senior citizen programs, events, special population groups, and numerous other places,” said Fire Chief Brandy Williams.
The Alabama Fire College recently selected Pickens as the 2026 Educator of the Year. Educator of the Year is a statewide honor, and Pickens was selected by his peers out of individuals from throughout Alabama.
According to Alabama Fire College’s website, “The Fire & Life Safety Educator of the Year Award recognizes an out- standing educator who has demonstrated commitment in advancing fire and life safety education in their community. This award honors individuals who inspire safer communities through innovative programs, effective outreach, and a steadfast commitment to prevention. Recipients exemplify leadership, creativity, and dedication in educating the public and reducing community risk through fire and life safety education.”
“Captain Pickens has made a huge impact in our community, and here are a few stats from 2025. He has reached over 5,000 kids throughout school events. He’s installed 60 smoke alarms. He’s taught 50 CPR classes and 145 CPR skills check offs, and he has taught 10 first aid classes,” said Williams.
Pickens has also been honored with another award from Partnership for a Drug-Free Community at the 2026 Outstanding Public Safety and Educators Awards.
