The Strategic Services Division is led by Deputy Chief Chris Heppel and is responsible for Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Training, and the Fire Marshall Office. The Division provides, but not limited to, a full scope of initial and continuing training in fire and EMS, manages the Basic Life Support program, Continuous Quality Improvement Program, recruitment, fire inspections, prevention, building plans review and the toxics program. The Division is supporting the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is working to coordinate ongoing recovery and sustainability plans for future large-scale incidents.
The Strategic Services Division is also called upon when there is a local situation requiring special precautions due to the presence of hazardous materials, large event/venue planning, dignitaries needing protection, or other unusual circumstances presenting the possibility of a threat to life or property.