Wichita Fire Department appoints 2 deputy chiefs

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Stuart Bevis (left) and Joe Bickel Stuart Bevis (left) and Joe Bickel
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) -

Wichita Fire Department Chief Tammy Snow announced Friday the promotions of Joe Bickel and Stuart Bevis to deputy fire chief.

Bickel, who joined the department in 1975, was appointed deputy chief of operations. The department said in a news release that Bickel had served as acting deputy fire chief since July 2017. He will be responsible for the day-to-day direction of emergency services including medical emergencies, fires, hazardous materials and rescue team operations.

“Joe’s 43 years of fire service experience provides invaluable and irreplaceable institutional knowledge as a dedicated public safety servant,” Snow said.

Bevis, who joined the department in 1987, was appointed fire marshal, a deputy chief post. He had served as acting fire marshal since October 2016. Bevis will direct day-to-day operations of the Fire Prevention Division. This includes management and oversight of Code Administration, Fire Investigation and Public Fire/Life Safety Education sections of the department. He will also oversee the SWAT Medic program and Security Advisory Team.

“His expertise will enhance the services and safety of the community,” Snow said.

The fire department has three deputy chief positions. The third is Brad Crisp, the deputy fire chief for support services.

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