New Ocean Springs Fire Chief Shares Department's Goals

Lina Portman1 week ago

0 1 minute read

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WLOX) – The Ocean Springs Fire Chief may be new to the high position, but he has been with the department for nearly 18 years.

Since beginning his career with the City of Discovery in 2006, Ryan Heath says being named fire chief has always been on his mind.

RELATED: City of Ocean Springs Announces Ryan Heath as New Fire Chief

“Sometimes you don't know if it's a realistic or achievable vision or goal, but you know, I just kept my head straight, tried to lead with a good heart, leading by example, and it brought me here to the capacity that I serve now,” says Heath.

One of Heath's goals in his new role is to address any operational inefficiencies the team may face.

He says he has no plans to step in and make drastic changes. Improvement is his key word.

“I believe this department is one of the best in the state and it’s because of the people who work here. »

Another priority is to ensure training covers all the different hats firefighters must wear when responding to different types of emergencies.

“They are highly qualified, highly qualified, they know what they are doing and want to continually improve. It really makes my job, you know, here, a lot easier when you have those kinds of people working alongside you.

The chief says he will continue to improve the department in areas where it makes the most difference. Any changes made will be done gradually and with everyone on the same page.

Ryan Heath succeeds former chief Derek McCoy, who retired in May.

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