Edmonton fire chief announces last day will be May 10

May 1, 2024, Edmonton, Alta. – Fire Chief Joe Zatylny has announced that he will be leaving Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) on May 10, marking the end of a four-year career with the City of Edmonton.

“I have been honoured to serve in the role, and am proud of what this fire service has accomplished for Edmontonians,” Zatylny noted. “I want to thank the 1,300 members of the Service for their commitment to each other and their service to the community.”

Zatylny cited the fire service’s contributions to the City’s response to the COVID pandemic, opioid epidemic, and derelict properties as examples of innovative work that went well beyond emergency response.

“Increased awareness of firefighting careers, changed recruitment practices and regional collaborations have helped make the Service more reflective of our community,” Zatylny added.

“On behalf of the entire Executive Leadership Team, we express our appreciation for Chief Zatylny’s work to make our community safer and more welcoming,” said Interim City Manager Eddie Robar.

David Lazenby, Deputy Chief of Community Safety & Risk, will be named Acting Fire Chief, and a national recruitment will begin.