Fire Chief Moore reports on structure fires and community events in Shawnee

During the recent Overland Park Public Safety Committee meeting held on May 14, 2025, key discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts and challenges faced by the city's fire and police departments. All committee members were present as they reviewed significant incidents and community engagement activities.

Fire Chief Alan Moore reported on a structure fire that occurred on May 11, attributed to a lithium-ion battery and charger associated with a hoverboard. This incident underscores the growing concern regarding the safety of lithium-ion batteries, which have been linked to several fires in recent years. Additionally, Chief Moore mentioned the department's assistance in a two-alarm fire in Lee's Summit, where two patients were evacuated prior to the arrival of emergency crews. The cause of this fire remains under investigation.

In a show of solidarity, Overland Park firefighters participated in a memorial event for fallen firefighter Graham Hoffman from the Kansas City Fire Department. The department's honor guard also attended the funeral services, reflecting the strong camaraderie among fire services in the region.

Looking ahead, Chief Moore announced an upcoming charity boxing event, "Guns and Hoses," scheduled for June 7, where firefighter Logan Leonard will compete against a law enforcement officer. This event aims to support the Safe Foundation, which assists the families of fallen first responders.

In addition to these updates, Chief Moore noted that FEMA is working to restore funding to the National Fire Academy, although a timeline for this restoration is still unclear. He also mentioned ongoing high-rise ventilation training at the Spirit Campus, which will involve multiple fire apparatus throughout May.

Police Chief Andrew Grove took the opportunity to recognize National Police Week, honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. He highlighted a remembrance event for Officer Mike Mosher, which was well-attended and served to honor his legacy. Chief Grove also reported on a successful community event, "No Booze, Just Cruise," a car show that raised funds for the Shawnee Mission School District's Blue Eagle program, demonstrating the department's commitment to community engagement.

The meeting concluded with a sense of shared purpose among the public safety officials, emphasizing their dedication to both operational readiness and community involvement. As the city continues to address public safety challenges, these discussions reflect a proactive approach to enhancing the well-being of Overland Park residents.