News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – Michael A. Lewis has been appointed provincial fire marshal.

“The Office of the Fire Marshal plays an important part in ensuring the safety of New Brunswickers by delivering provincial fire prevention and protection programs with the goal of reducing deaths, injuries and property loss due to fires,” said Public Safety Minister Carl Urquhart. “We are pleased to have Michael Lewis continue to lead our efforts to keep New Brunswickers safe from fire.”

Lewis has served as the acting fire marshal since 2018.

“I thank my predecessor, Douglas Browne, for his important contributions to our office,” said Lewis. “Our fire services across the province work diligently to keep our communities safe and our province strong. I am honoured at the opportunity to support our fire services in doing what they do best: protecting New Brunswickers.”

Lewis is a native of New Brunswick who joined the office in 2015 in the role of provincial hazardous materials co-ordinator. He obtained a bachelor of arts and master’s degree in environmental management focusing on fire behaviour from the University of New Brunswick.

Lewis was hired following an open competition process.

The Office of the Fire Marshal:

• Develops fire protection policies and programs and provides advice and assistance to municipalities and local service districts for the delivery of effective fire services.
• Sets and enforces standards for firefighting performance, equipment, facilities and training.
• Administers the provincial Hazardous Materials Response Program.
• Develops and delivers fire prevention information and education programs in collaboration with fire departments and partner agencies.
• Compiles and analyzes provincial fire statistics.
• Implements and manages fire inspections and plan review systems, to ensure compliance with national building and fire codes and provincial regulations.
• Conducts fire investigations, and provides standards and training for police and fire service investigators.
• Establishes and supports stakeholder advisory boards and committees and provides input for developing effective fire protection policies and practices.

More information about the Office of the Fire Marshal is available online.