OSFM accomplishes its mission through public education, criminal investigations, building inspections, and fire code enforcement activities.
The Commission appoints the State Fire Marshal by a majority vote based solely on administrative ability and experience.
If the Commission so deems, the State Fire Marshal may be required to obtain certification as a peace officer from the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training, and will be subject to an extensive background investigation, psychological testing, and drug testing.
OSFM examines plans and specifications of certain types of new construction or remodeling to ensure minimum safety standards are met.
Those cities which have not adopted the State codes fall under the jurisdiction of OSFM and must obtain a building permit from it prior to the beginning of construction.
OFIRS is used to gather and analyze information on the state's fire problem, as well as its detailed characteristics and trends.