PIERRE, (KCCR) — A familiar name to central South Dakota first responders now has a new role as the State Fire Marshal. The South Dakota Department of Public Safety Friday announced the appointment of Doug Hinkle of Pierre as the replacement for the retiring Paul Merriman. Hinkle hails from the Hyde County hamlet of Holabird where he was born and raised and has dedicated over 25 years of public service to public safety. Hinkle has served as Chief of the Pierre Rural Fire Department and has worked in emergency management along with the State Fire Marshal’s office as Chief Deputy. The Office of the State Fire Marshal is charged with protecting the public by preventing fire and related losses through fire prevention programs, investigations, code enforcement and education. Hinkle will oversee fire safety law, inspection of public and commercial buildings, arson investigation, explosive and fireworks permits and assisting local departments as needed with training and resources.
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