BULLHEAD CITY – Fire Marshal Jim Dykens has retired from Bullhead Fire after 42 years in the fire service. Chief Dykens began his fire service career in October 1977 in the United States Air Force. Serving as an active-duty firefighter for eight years, then serving for the Air Force as a civilian firefighter for nine years.
Traveling in the military as most members do, he served in England, Mississippi, Washington, Alaska, Nevada, and Utah. Dykens moved his family to Mohave County in 1994 and began working as Fire Marshal for the Hualapai Valley Fire Department for 8.5 years. In 2002, he was hired by the Bullhead Fire Department as Fire Marshal, serving in that position for almost 17 years.
Dykens has a few other hats that he will place on the shelf with his retirement. He was an EMT for 30 years, held the position of Fire Marshal for 25 years, and the Community Emergency Response Team coordinator for nine years. In addition, he was the 15th person in the nation to receive his Fire Marshal Accreditation. Chief Dykens stated that he leaves with mixed emotions, but is looking forward to retirement.
He has been married to his wife, Cindy, for almost 42 years. They have eight children, 30 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Upon his retirement, he is looking forward to spending time with his family and friends.
