Chief Novak began his career at the Sheffield Lake Fire Department in 1997 as a part-time firefighter/paramedic. In August of 2000 Chief Novak was hired as a full-time SLFD firefighter/paramedic.  He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in 2006. During his time as Lieutenant, Chief Novak’s duties included fire prevention, fire investigation and training officer.

“My top priorities are ensuring the Sheffield Lake Fire Department is always prepared, that our firefighters are properly trained, and that we have state-of-the-art equipment to respond to every emergency.”

SLFD is a well-established fire department, founded in 1929.  We continue to focus on ensuring the new recruits are trained and able to meet our high standards. Because we are a small-town fire department, each member must be able to perform at a high level. The firefighters of SLFD have also been challenged to make healthy food choices and to participate in physical fitness activities while on duty. We believe a fit force is a better force.

Chief Novak is also committed to public education. He would like to remind our residents of the importance of smoke alarms. Now more than ever, smoke alarms are extremely important. This is due to the materials being used in our home furnishings and the rapid heat and smoke production caused by synthetic materials. In today’s environment, people have only minutes to leave their home if a fire occurs. Because smoke alarms are so important, the Sheffield Lake Fire Department will provide and install one smoke alarm to each resident. We also replace batteries for our older residents that are not able to safely do it themselves. Should anyone need assistance, please don’t hesitate to call the fire department.

The Sheffield Lake Fire Department also has a community CPR program that is held twice a year. To date, the department has certified over 170 people including our police officers.

Another service the department provides is the installation of lock boxes. These boxes contain a door key inside, and are mounted on the outside door jamb. The fire department has the only key to the box and can make entry without damaging the door. These are helpful should the caller be unable to unlock the door. The cost of the lock box is $25.00 and a spare key is needed to place inside the box.

Chief Novak has been married to his wife Bridget for 31 years and has two adult children: Margot, a physician and Jack, a firefighter/paramedic.