New promotions at fire department

DOWNEY – The city of Downey announced five promotions within the Downey Fire Department last month. “It is my sincere pleasure to promote these fine individuals,” said Fire Chief Mark Gillaspie. “Each of them possesses excellent character and qualities which the public deserves from its fire department.  I am confident that these men are dedicated to leading the Downey Fire Department and serving the citizens of Downey.”

Bruce English has been promoted to Assistant Fire Chief/Fire Marshall.  His duties will include the management of the Fire Prevention Bureau and the Fire Dispatch Center, along with the city’s Emergency Preparedness efforts.  Assistant Chief English promoted through the ranks where he has served as Battalion Chief since 2007.

Scott Devereux was promoted to Battalion Chief and assigned as the “A” platoon Incident Commander.  His duties will include the management of the department’s training division and special operations.  Additionally, he will oversee the department’s Auxiliary Firefighter and Fire Explorer programs, which is where Chief Devereux was first introduced to the Fire service.

Dan Hurlock was promoted to Battalion Chief and assigned as the “C” platoon Incident Commander.  His duties will include the management of all department facilities, its records management system, and will serve as the department Safety Officer.  Chief Hurlock has served as a Fire Captain since 2011.

Ivan Orloff was promoted to Fire Captain.  Captain Orloff attended Cal State University Long Beach and received a bachelor’s degree in Communications.  He attended paramedic school at the Paramedic Training Institute shortly after graduating from college.  In May 2001, two months after completing paramedic school, he began his career with the Downey Fire Department as a firefighter.

Dave Blades was promoted to Fire Engineer. Engineer Blades was hired as a Firefighter with the department 2008.  He immediately took on more responsibility and became a certified Los Angeles County Paramedic.  He is also a certified Paramedic Preceptor and a National Registry Testing Proctor, who often mentors and evaluates paramedic candidates from other cities.

“Our city is fortunate to have an outstanding group of individuals who help make our Downey Fire Department one of the best in the region,” said Mayor Fernando Vasquez. “They’re all extremely talented and hardworking, and deserve every bit of recognition.  Congratulations to all and thank you for serving and protecting our community.”

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Published: Sept. 11, 2014 - Volume 13 - Issue 22