By Geoff Smith (@smithco on Twitter)

Coaldale promotes from within for new fire chief

Feb 7, 2017 | 10:35 AM

COALDALE – The town of Coaldale has promoted from within for its new fire chief.

Kevin McKeown, a lieutenant with Coaldale and District Emergency Services (CDES) since June 2015, has moved into the top job effective Feb. 6. McKeown is originally from Sarnia, Ontario, and has past experience in Cardston, the Blood Reserve, and Lethbridge.

In addition, for the past five years he’s been a part-time instructor of Emergency Medical Services at Lethbridge College. He achieved a Paramedic Diploma with honours in 2014.

McKeown succeeds interim chief Gary Gettman, who’s served in the role for the past year. Gettman returns to the deputy chief position.