Navigating Challenges and Analytics

Explore how data and analytics are transforming fire service operations with Darrell Reid from Darkhorse Emergency on this episode of the WFCA’s Fire Headlines Podcast.

On this week’s episode of Fire Headlines, host Samantha Didion is joined by Chief Ken Kehmna and special guest Darrell Reid, Vice President of Strategy at Darkhorse Emergency. With over 30 years of experience in the fire service, including serving as a Fire Chief in multiple Canadian cities, Darrell now shares his expertise to help fire departments leverage analytics and data for smarter decision-making.

Darrell Reid’s Journey and the Role of Analytics

Darrell’s career in the fire service spans over three decades, including serving as Fire Chief for the City of Vancouver and Strathcona County. His experiences handling complex challenges, such as rapid urban growth and managing fire department resources, set the stage for his transition to Darkhorse Emergency. As VP of Strategy, Darrell helps fire departments use data and analytics to improve performance and secure necessary resources. He highlights how these tools can guide smart decision-making, from justifying new stations to improving service delivery.

Overcoming Budget Challenges with Data-Driven Decisions

Darrell reflects on the critical role data played in navigating financial constraints during his time in Toronto, where he worked to secure resources amidst a drastically reduced budget. By using analytics, Darrell and his team were able to demonstrate the value of every dollar spent, ensuring that resources were allocated efficiently without compromising public safety. He explains how these approaches can be applied to any department, regardless of size or budget, to enhance operations and performance.

The Darkhorse Impact on Fire Service Leadership

Within his position at Darkhorse Emergency, Darrell is helping fire chiefs across North America integrate powerful analytics into their operations. He emphasizes that Darkhorse’s approach is about empowering leaders to ask the right questions and use data to drive smarter decisions. Darrell’s mission is to make analytics more accessible and actionable for fire departments, helping them create safer communities and make informed, strategic investments for the future.

You can email Fire Headlines at [email protected].

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