The City of Poway appointed Scott Post to interim fire chief, filling the leadership position until a new fire chief is selected. Post assumes the role from Jon Canavan, who retired on Aug. 13 after 18 years working for the Poway Fire Department and more than 30 years in fire service.
“I am honored to serve as the interim fire chief in the community that I grew up in,” said Interim Chief Scott Post. “I have spent my entire life living in or working for the City of Poway. I am proud to serve with an incredible group of dedicated people who serve this community each day.”
Post began his career with the Poway Fire Department as a reserve firefighter in October 1986. In April 1992 he was hired full time as a firefighter/paramedic. He worked his way up to battalion chief in 2016 and was named deputy chief in 2019.
“With his experience and dedication to the Poway Fire Department, I appreciate his leadership during this transition and am confident that he will serve the organization well,” said City Manager Chris Hazeltine.
Since 1961, members of the Poway Fire Department have served the residents, businesses and visitors of the “City in the Country” with a tradition of compassion, professionalism, and innovation. Today, the department continues the tradition of service excellence as an all-hazards, all-risk public safety organization responding to over 5,000 calls for service each year. The Poway Fire Department is designated “Class 1” by the Insurance Services Organization’s Public Protection Classification program for providing exemplary fire protection.
Post completed his paramedic training at Southwestern College, graduated from Palomar College with an associate of arts degree in fire technology, and from San Diego State University with a bachelor’s degree in public administration.
He resides in Vista with his wife Michelle, daughter Sawyer, son Max, and seven dogs.