Ron Harrison Appointed Cleveland Fire Chief

Captain Ron Harrison was appointed Monday to be the next chief of the Cleveland Fire Department.

The announcement was made by Cleveland City Manager Janice Casteel. Chief Steve Haun is retiring at the end of this month.

"The city of Cleveland was very fortunate to have five candidates within the department to apply," Ms. Casteel said. "We appreciate the service of Chief Haun and we look forward to the continuation of professional fire services for the citizens, businesses and industries of Cleveland."

She met Monday with all five candidates to announce her appointment.

Ron Harrison will complete his 20th year with the department in February, 2015, he said.

He was promoted to captain in 2006. He currently leads Station Four on Keith Street, the department's largest satellite station.

He has a degree in fire science with a concentration in emergency management. He also has a degree in nursing and has worked on his off-duty days as an occupational health specialist with local industries.

He is married and has four children and two grandchildren.

"We have a very strong department and I am very proud of it," Capt. Harrison said. "We will continue to strive to get even better."

He said he will be discussing his new role with the retiring chief over the next few days.

The Cleveland Fire Department was established in 1895 and currently operates from five stations.