![](https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2111/files/2024/07/stfd-deputy-chief-jeff-topliffe-july-2024.jpg)
St. Thomas Fire Chief Dave Gregory advises the department has completed the hiring process and the city has a new deputy fire chief.
The reaction to incoming Deputy Chief Jeff Topliffe has been “very positive,” acknowledged Gregory.
The firefighters “are very excited and supportive of Jeff coming to us,” added Gregory.
“It will be a seamless transition for him.”
And Gregory explains the hiring of Topliffe may be a first for St. Thomas.
Chief Gregory introduces Topliffe to myFM listeners.
Topliffe and his wife at one time lived in St. Thomas and he previously worked with Windsor Fire & Rescue Services.
Monday (July 29) is Topliffe’s first day on the job in St. Thomas.
Gregory explains the hiring process.
He added an important factor in the hiring of Topliffe is his knowledge gained through negotiating collective agreements.
Topliffe was a guest curator for Chariots of Fire: A History of Windsor’s Firefighting Equipment’ which opened April 6 of this year at the Windsor Community Museum.
It explores the history of the Windsor Fire Department through some of the unique and innovative pieces of firefighting equipment and machinery that were used in the past.
The exhibition features historical photographs, firefighting equipment, badges, and other unique items rarely seen by the public.