The City of Richmond Hill has appointed Deputy Fire Chief, Bryan Burbidge, as Interim Fire Chief, effective May 28, 2021. 

Deputy Chief Burbidge started with Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services in August 2012. Prior to this, he was the Fire Chief of King Fire and Emergency Services for six years and spent four years as the Deputy Chief of Georgina Fire and Emergency Services. He has more than 19 years of experience as a high-ranking officer and 30 years of experience in the fire service.

Since joining Richmond Hill, Deputy Chief Burbidge has been responsible for every aspect of the fire department, including Fire Suppression, Dispatch, Fire Prevention and Education, Emergency Management and Training, Mechanical and Facilities. He has also been an executive member of the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs, a position elected by the deputy and fire chiefs across Ontario. 

Richmond Hill Council approved the appointment at the May 12 Council Meeting, following the resignation of Chief Steve Kraft who departs the City to pursue new opportunities. Chief Kraft’s last day is May 28. 

Quote 

“Bryan Burbidge is a long-standing member of Richmond Hill Fire and Emergency Services, and has demonstrated great leadership during his tenure as Deputy Chief. We are thrilled that Bryan will be leading this team during the interim period and I am confident our community remains in good hands. On behalf of Members of Council, I sincerely thank Chief Steve Kraft for his more than 30 years of exemplary service to Richmond Hill and his dedication to keeping our community safe.”

– Joe DiPaola, Acting Mayor, Richmond Hill

Quick Facts 

• RHFES responds to approximately 5,500 emergency incidents annually from six fire stations located across the city. 
• The department is comprised of frontline fire fighters, trainers, fire prevention officers, public education and administrative personnel, as well as deputy chiefs and chief. 

Media Contact

Patti Enright, Communications Advisor
patti.enright@richmondhill.ca