(1993-99)

Dave Hodgins was hired as deputy fire chief in 1998 and six months later was chosen by the city to replace Gary Weese as fire chief. Hodgins served as acting fire chief until Chief Weese’s retirement took effect on January 31, 1999.

Chief Hodgins brought 20 years of firefighting experience with him to London. He became a volunteer firefighter in northern Manitoba and then became a full-time firefighter in Thompson. Chief Hodgins went on to become an assistant fire marshal in Manitoba. He moved west to Alberta and in several years became tire chief for Strathcona County. After that, he served as deputy Fire Chief in Edmonton.

Hodgins served as President of the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association and as a board member of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.

His qualifications also include a background in ambulance and disaster service administration.