Woolwich Township announces new Fire Chief

Woolwich, ON – The Township of Woolwich is pleased to announce the appointment of Dennis Aldous as Woolwich’s new Township Fire Chief. 

“We are pleased at the end of a very competitive recruitment process, that involved both internal and external candidates, to be promoting Dennis to the position of Fire Chief”, said CAO David Brenneman, “We feel his experience and professional growth and development will be a great asset, as we continue to move forward and implement the priorities outlined in our Fire Master Plan.”

Chief Aldous is not only a long-term resident of Woolwich, but for the last four years he has been serving our community as our Deputy Fire Chief.  He has previously held the position of Fire Prevention Officer, along with being a member of our volunteer fire department for 24 years.

Chief Aldous has spent his career in the fire services focused on public service in both an operational and administrative capacity. He began his career in emergency services as a volunteer fireman with our Elmira Fire Department.  He holds a certificate in both Fire Service Administration and Fire Service Leadership from Dalhousie University.

Chief Aldous also brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding surrounding mental health and the effects Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can have on our first responders and their families.  He is an advocate for mental health education and will assist Woolwich Fire in its efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in a profession where first responders often deal with some incredibly devastating and profound incidents.

“It is an honour to have worked with former Chief Martin and to continue serving the residents of Woolwich in this new role” said Chief Aldous this morning. “I’m fortunate to work with an excellent group of firefighters who are dedicated to keeping this community safe.”

In his new role, Chief Aldous will also assist our Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC), with Woolwich’s emergency response during critical incidents.

As Township Fire Chief, Chief Aldous will be responsible for leading, managing, and overseeing all aspects of the Fire Department, including the operation and management of Woolwich’s six fire stations and approximately 3 full-time and 165 volunteer staff.

Chief Aldous officially assumed his new role on September 13, 2021.

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Media contacts:

Jeff Smith, Corporate Communications

Phone: 519-669-6010

Email: jsmith@woolwich.ca