Introducing Assistant District Fire Chief Gary Harrington

We are happy to welcome Gary Harrington as the new Assistant District Fire Chief for Weston, effective August 10, 2024. Assistant Chief Harrington brings over four decades of distinguished service in fire rescue and emergency management, making him an invaluable addition to our community.

Harrington’s career began with the City of Miramar Fire Rescue Department, where he dedicated 30 years, rising through the ranks from firefighter/paramedic to Battalion Chief. Following his retirement from Miramar, he continued his service with the Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services in 2014, initially serving as a fire inspector for Port Everglades and Dania Beach in the Fire Prevention Bureau.

In 2022, he was reassigned to Cooper City, where his leadership significantly enhanced the city’s fire and rescue services. Among his many contributions were the design and acquisition of three new fire apparatus, the oversight of the Community Emergency Response Team, and the implementation of innovative programs such as AED mapping and a smoke detector/battery replacement initiative for residents. He also led a unique fire hydrant painting project, involving local school art students to bring a creative touch to the community.

Assistant Chief Harrington holds a master’s degree in Disaster and Emergency Management from Nova Southeastern University and a Graduate Certificate in Emergency Services and Disaster Management from the University of Florida. His professional affiliations include the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Florida Fire Chief’s Association, Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association, and the Institute for Fire Engineers.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, he is a dedicated family man. He and his wife, Linda, have been married for 32 years and have two children, Christina and Michael. Christina, a graduate of the University of Florida, works for the Broward Sheriff’s Office in the Communications Division. Michael is a senior at the Georgia Institute of Technology, pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering with a focus on Circuit Technology and Robotics/Autonomous Systems.

A native of South Florida, Assistant Chief Harrington enjoys an active lifestyle, with hobbies including boating, fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. He also has a passion for snow skiing and tubing in the Rocky Mountains.

We are confident that Assistant Chief Harrington’s extensive experience, leadership, and commitment to community service will make a lasting impact on Weston.  Chief Draizin looks forward to their partnership.

Please join us in welcoming him to our team!