Ed Melanson has been appointed deputy fire chief of Niagara Falls Fire Department.
Melanson, a former fire chief in Fort Erie, will begin his new role, which also includes community risk reduction, June 29.
“I am extremely pleased to welcome Ed to our team,” fire Chief Jo Zambito said in a city news release. “His extensive experience and proven leadership in fire services make him an excellent fit for this role. His background, including his work as a hazardous materials response technician, will be a valuable asset to our department.”
Melanson will be responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating programs aimed at reducing risks to life, property and the environment through prevention, public education and data-driven strategies. He will also assume operational leadership of the department in the fire chief’s absence, as required.
He brings more than 20 years of fire service experience to Niagara Falls. Most recently, he served as director of fire services and community emergency management co-ordinator for the town of Saugeen Shores. There, he led continuous improvement initiatives and enhanced emergency response training for the municipality’s emergency control group.
Melanson’s career began as a volunteer firefighter in Fort Erie in 2005. He advanced through the ranks to captain before being appointed fire chief, a position he held from 2017 to 2022.
Throughout his career, Melanson has demonstrated leadership in emergency response, fire prevention, public education, emergency management, fire investigation and strategic planning, said the release.
He has also served on several provincial advisory committees and is a strong advocate for firefighter training, mental wellness and inclusive service delivery.