The City of Vernon has a new deputy fire chief, Scott Hemstad, who will be responsible for prevention, training and logistics with Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS). During his career, Hemstad served as a firefighter, rescue technician (high angle, confined space), paramedic and training officer. His most recent role was deputy fire chief for Stony Plain, AB.
“Scott is well known amongst his colleagues as an effective fire service leader,” said Interim Chief David Lind. “He has a reputation for enthusiastically transforming systems and programs with a focus on serving the community.
Hemstad holds a certificate in Fire Service Leadership as well as many other fire services credentials. He also also holds the designation of Safety Codes Officer and fire and life safety education.
During the fires in Fort McMurray, Hemstad lead a team of firefighters in the early stages of the fire. This is a time when things were unpredictable, changing quickly and quite dangerous.
“Scott is known to be reliable, honest and respectful and we are confident he will be an excellent fit with VFRS and the City of Vernon,” said Lind.