Windsor Names Next Fire Chief

Windsor Fire and Rescue Services (WFRS) and the City of Windsor are proud to announce that Deputy Fire Chief Jamie Waffle will be Windsor’s next fire chief, effective January 1, 2025. 

Jamie has been employed with Windsor Fire & Rescue Services for 27 years, the past six years as deputy chief of operations and training. Jamie has spent time in several positions, including firefighter, training officer, acting captain, chief training officer, acting district chief, and acting assistant chief, and he was then promoted to deputy fire chief in 2018. His responsibilities have included oversight of WFRS operations, training, and the hazardous materials (HazMat) and structural collapse (USAR) teams, and he has served as alternate community emergency management coordinator (CEMC) and alternate Essex County mutual aid coordinator.

“On behalf of City Council, I congratulate Deputy Fire Chief Waffle on his selection as Windsor’s next Fire Chief,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. “He has demonstrated his commitment to Windsor Fire and Rescue Services and to the community he serves every day since he joined the Service nearly three decades ago. We have full confidence in his ability to lead the WFRS team and look forward to working with Jamie as he moves into this vital role in the organization at the start of next year.”

Jamie's passion for the fire service is profound, and he is humbled to be chosen to serve the City of Windsor and the entire team at Windsor Fire & Rescue Services. He has completed his Fire Service Administration: Advanced Leadership certificate and an Incident Command certificate from Dalhousie University. He has also completed his accreditation as a Certified Municipal Manager: Fire Service Executive through the Ontario Municipal Management Institute. 

“Jamie brings a wealth of experience and a forward-thinking approach that will serve us well as we look forward to the future for Windsor Fire & Rescue Services,” said City of Windsor Chief Administrative Officer Joe Mancina. “Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is our top priority, and with his leadership, we aim to continue providing top-tier emergency response, innovation, and community engagement.”

The promotion takes effect in January to allow for a strong handover of responsibility from Chief Laforet.

“I’d also like to extend my deepest thanks to Chief Laforet for his many years of dedicated service to Windsor Fire & Rescue Services,” continued Mancina. “Under his leadership, the department has grown stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to protect our community. His commitment to public safety, professionalism, and mentorship of firefighters; and his unwavering dedication will leave an indelible mark on the city. On behalf of the corporation, I wish Chief Laforet all the best in his well-deserved retirement."