Clearwater Names New Fire and Rescue Fire Chief

CLEARWATER, FL – The City of Clearwater today revealed a new person in charge of the Fire and Rescue Department.

City Manager Bill Horne announced that Scott Ehlers will be chief of the Clearwater Fire and Rescue Department effective immediately. Ehlers, who previously worked as the city’s emergency manager, has more than 35 years of experience in fire service.

“I am excited about seeing Scott Ehlers as the new Clearwater Fire and Rescue chief,” Horne said. “He will bring a strong familiarity with the fire department’s strengths and weaknesses and strong relationships within the Clearwater staff.”

Ehlers is a certified firefighter, paramedic, executive fire officer and chief fire officer. He earned a bachelor’s of science degree from the University of South Florida with minors in fire science/emergency medical services. He has taken several continuing education courses in emergency management.

Before arriving at Clearwater, Ehlers served as Tampa Fire and Rescue’s assistant chief of operations.

“(Ehlers) will be well received by the fire department employees and union officials,” Horne said. “He will give us a great opportunity to build and maintain positive images of our fire service employees in the community.”

Ehlers replaced Robert Weiss, who retired on Friday, Oct. 10.

Clearwater Fire and Rescue has eight fire stations with 173 line personnel and approximately 30 support staff. The department has an Insurance Services Office Public Protection Classification of 1, the highest classification a department can achieve, and is a Center for Public Safety Excellence Nationally Accredited Agency.

Image courtesy of City of Clearwater