What do you do when an emergency breaks out? For most, you quickly leave the area, but for Delek’s Emergency Responders, that’s not the case. These brave members rush to the incident to protect lives, environment, and property. The Delek Emergency Response Teams (ERT) are made up of four disciplines: Fire, Haz-Mat, Rescue, and EMT. These teams consist of employees whose job titles require the role and even volunteers.
The Qualifications
Prior to responding to a true emergency, the team members go through rigorous training and testing. The first step is a physical exam. Then, some of our facilities start with an on-site training class. Delek also utilizes several external vendors to provide specialized training and certification. Whatever the discipline, each receive annual education to keep their skill level at peak condition. At Delek facilities, some ERT members are involved in all four disciplines.
The Red Hats
Each facility utilizes different helmets for their teams, but they can all be considered part of the “Red Hat” group. The term “Red Hats” dates back to 1948 when the first organized group of Native American Fire Fighters was formed and referred to as the Red Hats, by the US Forestry Commission. This group used their skill to respond to fires, and to teach others firefighting techniques. The name was given in honor of those that paved the way to share knowledge and create an organized response to events.
What’s the Motivation?
“These are world class individuals, some would say “the best of the best!” Each are willing to sacrifice time away from their families to train and respond. I have the deepest respect for each of these individuals. The dedication of each member of the ERT is the reason I continue to want to be a part of such an honorable group. We will work together to help keep employees and their jobs safe.” -Joel Cates, Delek’s Sr. Manager of Safety
“My motivation for being a part of the ERT is not only the passion for it, but the men and women I work with that are part of the team. I think very highly of each one of them. I want to do my very best to help train and mentor, so that at the end of the day, everyone gets to go home to their loved ones. They make the team what it is due to their hard work, dedication, and teamwork. It is my honor to be part of Delek’s ERT.” -Daniel Loggins, Delek’s Emergency Response Specialist
“I have enjoyed firefighting my entire career. The ERT is like family, we have our ups and downs, but we want to be skilled and prepared to respond. Training is a big part of what I do, and it’s great seeing our team work together at fire schools, during drills, and other courses. The rookie members are interested and motivated to learn, and it is a pleasure working with them. We don’t have many actual emergencies, but it’s a very good feeling when our team responds with skill and confidence.” -Charles Frederick, Delek’s Superintendent of Emergency Services
Delek Thanks You
There’s nothing more important than the safety of our employees. Our ERT truly is the best of the best as Joel stated. We thank each of you for your courageous drive to protect others. You are the true heroes of Delek US and our communities in which we live and work.