Spotlight on Disaster Responders

 Kenny Garrett

How did you get involved with the volunteer fire department?

My involvement with Baskett Fire Department started in 2004 when I stepped down as Vice President and Captain of the Henderson City/County Rescue Squad after nine years of service. I have had a passion for helping people since I was a child. So, my adult life has been committed to doing just that. I joined Baskett Fire Department so I could continue to help the citizens of my community under the EMT umbrella that I have carried since 1995. I’ve served as the Safety Officer and Medical Officer with the fire department during the past 5 years.

How long have you been a part of disaster response and what led you to make the decision to become a responder?

14 Years. After leaving the United States Navy in 1992, I moved back to Henderson and wanted to give back to the community some how after spending 10 years on active duty. I decided to enroll in an EMT class in 1994 and work in Emergency Services on a purely voluntary basis. It has never been my intention to work in EMS on a full time paid basis.

What motivates you?

The needs of others.

What is about helping that is your “draw”?

As any of you have experienced in your lifetime, when you’re in need, no matter what it is, it’s always nice to have someone show up that knows what they’re doing, fix the problem and make you feel better than you did before they showed up.

What all facets of disaster response are you involved in?

Currently, I serve as; Radio Communications and Resource Officer - Henderson Emergency Management (9 years), Coordinator, Henderson County - Community Emergency Response Team Program (CERT) (2 years),Records Officer – Henderson Local Emergency Planning Committee (6+ years), EMT – Baskett Volunteer Fire Department (5 years), EMT / First Responder – Henderson County First Responder Program (14 years), Member - Task Force 3 – Regional Hazmat Response Team (3 years), Section Emergency Coordinator - for; the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), KY Section, Amateur Radio Emergency Services. In that capacity, I’m responsible for operational coordination between all 120 counties in Kentucky. (Recently Appointed)

What do you think makes a good volunteer?

Dedication to the people. It’s easy to get caught up in the internal fog, but if you keep your goal “serving the people”, all of the important stuff will fall into place.