For 20 years now, Michael McLeieer of E.S.C.A.P.E. Inc. has been teaching children and adults about fire prevention. Now his work and dedication has earned him a national award, the 2016 Fire Prevention and Education Award.

The award, sponsored by Nest, was established in memory of volunteer firefighter and NVFC board member Marc Mueller. Each year, it honors a person who has made a major contribution in the field of fire prevention.

McLeieer founded E.S.C.A.P.E. more than 20 years ago to teach children and adults about fire prevention, CPR, and first aid. He is a regular at Maranda Park Parties every summer, spreading his message of fire safety to more than a million children in West Michigan.

Lt. McLeieer will be recognized at a banquet on May 6, 2016, in Alexandria, Virginia. To read more about his accomplishments and the award, click here.