Chilliwack Fire Department announces new assistant fire chief

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CHILLIWACK — After former assistant fire chief of training and operations Andrew Brown became the fire chief of the Chilliwack Fire Department in mid-March of this year, his replacement has been named.

Chilliwack Fire posted on social media this week that Wade Meeres, who has worked as a Chilliwack firefighter for nearly two decades, has been promoted to Brown’s former position.

Meeres started his career with the department as a paid on-call firefighter back in the mid-2000s.

“Starting as a Paid-On-Call Firefighter back in 2005, his dedication and passion for serving the community were evident from the start,” Chilliwack Fire Department said of Meeres on social media Tuesday, April 30. “Over the years, he’s shown exceptional commitment, transitioning to a career firefighter just three years later.”

Meeres became acting lieutenant in 2015 and earned the rank of lieutenant in 2020, followed by a captain role in 2021. Peers have lauded him for his ability to lead with calmness and steadiness.

Beyond his duties, Meeres has also been actively involved in charitable initiatives like the Chilliwack Firefighters Charitable Society and the Burn Fund, exemplifying the spirit of service both on and off duty.

In 2022, Meeres made the move to the training division where he has excelled and helped shape the future of Chilliwack Fire Department. As Meeres told Chilliwack fire personnel, he’s “looking forward to continuing to help build the team.”

Meeres is married to Baylie, his wife, and has three kids: Easton, Luke and Ryan. Chilliwack Fire Dept. thanked them for their unwavering support throughout Meeres’ career.

“Congratulations, Assistant Chief Meeres!” Chilliwack Fire said. “Here’s to many more milestones and successes ahead.”