OH Governor Appoints New State Fire Marshal

COLUMBUS, OH—Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine on Thursday appointed Kevin S. Reardon as the state’s new fire marshal.

"We’re proud to have Kevin join our team as the State Fire Marshal, given his many years serving in the fire service, the public sector, and in higher education,” DeWine said in a news release. “The Division of State Fire Marshal is extremely important in the lives of all Ohioans. Kevin’s leadership will help us move programs and initiatives forward that help protect Ohioans and their communities.”

Reardon, who will replace Interim State Fire Marshall William Spurgeon, starts June 22. The state’s fire marshal’s office works to protect the public, property and the environment from fire through education, regulation and enforcement.

Reardon has been working in fire safety since 1981, when he started his career as a Columbus Fire firefighter. He retired from the department in 2013 as a battalion chief. He also worked as a military and veteran’s affairs liaison for DeWine during his time as a U.S. senator, and Columbus research firm Battelle.

“I am very humbled and proud to become Ohio’s 39th State Fire Marshal,” said Reardon. “This office has been serving Ohioans and the fire service for many decades and I believe the future is bright and filled with opportunities to create and encourage a safe environment throughout our great communities.”

He is a graduate of Capital University and Ohio State University.

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