New Chief Fire Officer Takes Charge in Surrey
Steve Owen-Hughes is the new Chief Fire Officer for Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. He’s been with Surrey since 2010, starting as Assistant Chief Fire Officer, and recently stepped up as acting chief before landing the top job permanently.
Prevention at the Heart of Surrey’s Fire Strategy
Owen-Hughes said, “It’s a great honour to serve Surrey as Chief Fire Officer. I’m proud to lead the transformation of our service to make it fit for the future, focusing hard on preventing emergencies before they happen.”
His plan aims to quadruple prevention visits each year, targeting the most vulnerable in the community. The public has until Sunday to comment on the consultation, and Owen-Hughes urged everyone to have their say.
Council Backs Fire Chief’s Bold Vision
Denise Turner-Stewart, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience, congratulated Owen-Hughes on his appointment.
“Steve powerfully advocates transforming our fire service not based on cuts but on what Surrey really needs. He’s addressing serious shortcomings inspectors have raised. I encourage residents to learn about our plans and join the Making Surrey Safer consultation.”
Military Vet Brings Battlefield Experience to Surrey Fire
Before joining Surrey, Owen-Hughes had a stellar military career. He served in Kosovo, Northern Ireland, Iraq, Africa, and the former Yugoslavia. He also founded Operation Florian, a charity delivering firefighting gear and know-how to war-torn regions, helping refugees and vulnerable communities worldwide.
He boasts an MBE, the Fire Service Cross, and several commendations, making him a decorated and respected leader ready to steer Surrey’s Fire and Rescue Service into a safer future.
