Sarnia Fire Rescue's new deputy chief brings a wealth of experience to the position.
James Kostuk will take over the role, and will also serve as Sarnia's Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC).
Kostuk brings with him more than 25 years of experience in fire and emergency response, alongside extensive qualifications in emergency management.
He most recently served as the Deputy Fire Chief in Airdrie, Alberta where he focused on fire prevention.
In a news release, Sarnia Fire Chief Jeff Weber is thrilled to add Kostuk to the department.
“Looking at James’ experience, I was immediately struck by the breadth of his knowledge and leadership as it relates not just to the fire service, but to fire prevention and emergency management," said Kostuk. "His expertise will be invaluable in ensuring community emergency management systems are maintained and improved. As a fire fighter he understands the ground-level functions of emergency response, and as a fire service leader he has demonstrated his insight as it relates to how response ties into the larger landscape of emergency management."
Weber said Kostuk’s primary role as one of two deputy chiefs for Sarnia Fire Rescue will be to review and update the community’s emergency preparedness.
He'll be ensuring plans are in place to respond to emergencies, educate and notify residents of potential hazards, mitigate or reduce the impacts on the larger community, and build resilience and recovery capability within the community.
Kostuk looks forward to getting started.
“I’m excited to join the Sarnia Fire Rescue team and get to work as CEMC, building relationships with local partners and improving our community emergency plans through cooperation with local emergency response, industry, and our partner municipalities," he said.
His first day will be March 3.
