Fire Marshal Celebrates 30 Years at Mehlville Fire

Ed Berkel has been preventing fires and making sure buildings are safe for the last 30 years— and that's just with the Mehlville Fire Protection District (MFPD). Berkel started his career in fire prevention 41 years ago in St. Clair. 

More than 10 friends and family members came to the MFPD board meeting Monday to celebrate Berkel's milestone.

"I'm embarrassed; it was a complete surprise," Berkel said when everyone gathered in a training room to watch a photo slideshow of his career. 

Berkel started as a fire inspector with the Fire Prevention Bureau in 1981, and four years later was promoted to Fire Marshal. He's continued to inspect buildings and conduct investigations to prevent fires and promote safety in the district. 

"My favorite part of the job is new construction inspections," he said. 

Berkel has also served on the board of directors for the International Code Council, the largest building and safety fire prevention organization in the world.

"We're very lucky to have Chief Berkel as our Fire Marshal, he is truly one of the best," said Chief Brian Hendricks at the meeting.