Dennis Smith
Dennis Smith
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Full Name: Dennis Michael Smith
Commonly known as: The Fire Chief, Founder of the National Center on Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: May 3, 1939
Died: August 26, 2013 (aged 74)
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Nationality: American
Professions: Fire Chief, Author, Lecturer, and Disaster Preparedness Expert
Early Life and Background
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Dennis Smith was born on May 3, 1939, in New York City. Growing up during a time of great social change, Smith's early life was marked by an interest in public service. He attended the Fire Academy and graduated as a fireman in 1957.
Major Accomplishments
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As a pioneer in disaster preparedness, Smith's career spanned over four decades. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
Serving as the Fire Chief for New York City from 1974 to 1986, where he implemented groundbreaking reforms and modernized the department.
Founding the National Center on Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health in 1995, which became a leading authority on disaster planning and emergency management.
Notable Works or Actions
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Smith wrote several influential books on fire departments, emergency services, and disaster preparedness, including:
Report from Ground Zero (2002), an account of his experiences as Fire Chief during the 9/11 attacks.
A. Death in the Family (1993), a memoir about his life and career.
Impact and Legacy
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Dennis Smith's work had far-reaching impacts on emergency management, fire safety, and disaster preparedness. His leadership and vision as Fire Chief helped shape modern firefighting practices, while his research and writing contributed to significant advancements in disaster planning and response.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Smith is widely quoted for his insightful commentary on disaster preparedness and emergency management. His expertise was sought by media outlets, policymakers, and communities worldwide. As a leading authority in his field, he continues to inspire future generations of emergency responders and public servants.
In the words of Dennis Smith:
> "Disasters are not random events, but rather predictable outcomes of human error and environmental vulnerability."
This quote encapsulates his dedication to improving disaster preparedness and response through education, research, and community engagement. His legacy as a pioneer in emergency management continues to shape the field, inspiring professionals and individuals alike to strive for greater resilience and preparedness in the face of adversity.
Quotes by Dennis Smith

He sets the tone for everyone. He's a leader and he expects everyone else to step up to the plate just like he does.

There was an accelerated move to the downside late last week -- traders were a little too aggressive in their short positions.


It's a guessing game. You don't know if this is long term or whether it's not going to be long term.

A year ago, I think I filled my tanks in the $1.15, ($1.18) range, and this year, we're pushing $2.25 to $2.30.

saw some people in distress across the river near the Mexican bank, and that was reported up through Border Patrol channels and relayed to Mexican officials.



