East Providence Fire Chief Retires

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — Fire Chief Oscar Elmasian has retired after 33 years with the East Providence Fire Department, city officials have announced. Glenn Quick has been appointed interim fire chief until Elmasian's position is replaced.

"We thank Chief Elmasian for this years of dedication to the city of East Providence and wish him well on his retirement," said Mayor Bob DaSilva. "The residents of our community know that when they in an emergency, the fire and police department will be there to assist them with the highest professional standards."

Elmasian had been appointed acting chief in 2012, and was then named chief in September 2013, according to city officials. He retired from that role in late September, after 33 years of service with the East Providence Fire Department.

As chief, Elmasian was responsible for 120 firefighters and medically trained staff, located in East Providence's four fire stations. Among his accomplishments was securing a $215,000 fire-prevention grant to advance education initiatives and gain new equipment, city officials say.

Elmansian holds certifications as a fire instructor and investigator, fire officer, incident safety officer, fire investigation technician and fire inspector. He has been a member of the Rhode Island Association of Fire Chiefs since 2014. He is also a member of the International Association of Arson Investigators and National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Also being an experienced drummer, Elmansian also is a 10-year member of the Rhode Island Professional Firefighters Pump And Drum Band. Before joining the East Providence Fire Department, he was a firefighter and EMT with the Barrington Fire Department. He also has served as callman firefighter with the Seekonk Fire Department, according to city officials.