Chief Fire Officer announces move to Australia

Chief Fire Officer Dan Stephens has advised Merseyside Fire and Rescue Authority that he has accepted the offer to take up the role of Chief Executive Officer/Chief Officer of the Melbourne Metropolitan Fire Brigade in Victoria, Australia.

Chief Officer Stephens said: ‘It has been a real privilege to serve as Chief over the last 7 years. Despite the most challenging of circumstances I believe we have maintained an excellent level of service to the people of Merseyside and that is all due to the professionalism and commitment of our staff.’

The Authority have accepted CFO Stephens’ recommendation to temporarily promote Deputy Chief Fire Officer Phil Garrigan to Chief Fire Officer and Area Manager Nick Searle to Deputy Chief Fire Officer from the point at which he leaves the service. An appointments process to permanently fill the post will then follow.

For free fire safety advice or to request a home fire safety check, call 0800 731 5958.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service also provides free smoke alarms for Merseyside residents aged 65 or over or those referred by partner agencies.