An Ohio firefighter collapsed and died Dec. 8 while attending a training detail in Florida.
Washington Township Firefighter Charles D. Swank, 39, was treated immediately by fellow firefighters and transported to a local hospital. He was pronounced dead a short time later.
The cause of death is pending, according to the US Fire Administration.
This brings to 94 the number of on-duty deaths this year.
He worked for Mifflin Township Fire Department part-time while also completing Medic School. From 2007-2013, he worked as a firefighter for the Mount Vernon Fire Department. For the past nine years as a firefighter for the Washington Township Fire Department in Dublin.
During this time he continued his education from Bowling Green State University earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Science in Fire Administration. While working full time, and balancing life as a husband and dad, Charles graduated Magna Cum Laude. He was currently operating from Station 95, according to his obituary..
Well respected, his impact in the fire community was far reaching. As a firefighter, Charles took the opportunity to lead and mentor fellow firefighters, many from other departments. He often designed, managed and ran training seminars. He also served as Commander for the Washington Township Honor Guard, proudly performing last rights to fellow fire fighters who had passed away. He was a member of the F.O.O.L.S. and also volunteered for the Fredericktown Community Fire District and Jefferson Township Fire Department where he shared his experience, insight, and training knowledge.
