Moments after being sworn in as Orlando Fire Chief, Charlie Salazar promised to focus on the health of firefighters.
“I want to reiterate the physical and mental well-being of our department’s members is important and will be a top priority so that we can be prepared to serve in full capacity. This also means that we treat each other and the residents served with the utmost courtesy and respect," he told the crowd.
Salazar, who recently served as executive deputy chief in Dallas, replaces Benjamin Barksdale, who resigned after being charged with assault, according to WMFE.
Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer tweeted after the ceremony: "I'm confident that with his professional background, strong leadership and organizational skills, he'll ensure that OFD continues to work diligently in protecting our community."
Salazar said he will reach out to the community. “To promote diversity, I will continue to encourage all qualified candidates to apply to become members of this great department. To do this, I understand that the community engagement and outreach in underserved communities helps to encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to consider joining our ranks.”
