Dale Unrau, Mission’s new fire chief, officially introduced himself to council on Monday afternoon.
Unrau comes to Mission after spending a majority of his career with the Abbotsford Fire Department where he served most recently as deputy fire chief and has held a number of chief officer roles since 2003.
Unrau replaces outgoing fire chief Larry Watkinson who left Mission Fire Rescue, after an eight year stay, to take the fire chief position in Penticton.
“It’s a pleasure to be here in the District of Mission and I very much want to thank council and city staff for entrusting me with the position of fire chief,” said Unrau.
The new chief spent the past few days learning as much as he could about his position.
“After having an opportunity last week being able to overlap with Chief Watkinson to get an idea of where the city’s going and different targets and projects that he’s been working closely with council on and other city staff, I very much look forward to following and providing the same great level of service that Chief Watkinson was able to set in place.”
He also said that he is excited about the new opportunity.
Unrau believes a community fire service revolves around working towards a safer community by providing services that are sustainable and reflect best industry practices and thereby earn the trust and respect of the community.