Niagara selects a new Chief of EMS

Published June 8, 2023 at 2:08 pm

Rick Ferron, the new Chief of Niagara Emergency Medical Services, left, poses with Fort Erie Fire Chief Mark Schmitt, right, after a recent meeting between the two. (Photo: Twitter)

The Niagara Emergency Medical Services (EMS) handles roughly 90,000 emergency calls every year. With a population of approximately 485,000, the equals out to one call for every five Niagara residents annually or 247 calls every day.

To that end, the selection process for a new Director of Emergency Services/EMS Chief involves quite a recruitment process.

In the end, one of the region’s own, Rick Ferron, got the job. Granted, Ferron knows the role well, having served as the Acting Chief for a few years.

When Ferron graduated from Niagara College in 1991, he started his career as a paramedic in Niagara before becoming a Primary Care Paramedic, Advanced Care Paramedic, and in various management level positions leading to his new job.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to work in the capacity of Chief with the amazing staff of Niagara EMS, as they continue to innovate and lead the way,” said Ferron after the appointment.

“They have also continued to show exceptional strength and character during this transitional time. I hope that finalizing this appointment will set us up well to keep advocating for EMS priorities in order to offer the excellent, progressive service that Niagara residents have come to expect.”

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