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Leesburg Chief Joe Mirra on evolving equipment, training and future firefighters
Summary
Chief Joe Mirra, hired in 2002 and named chief in 2022, discusses how technology such as portable thermal imagers and battery-powered rescue tools has changed firefighting, and outlines goals to pass the department’s culture to new recruits.
Joe Mirra described how the job has changed since he was hired in February 2002 and how technology has altered day-to-day firefighting. He said thermal imaging cameras have become far more portable and hydraulic rescue tools have shifted from gasoline power to battery-electric operation.
“Thermal imaging cameras…are very, very portable,” Mirra said, noting early units were large and unwieldy. He added that the move to battery-powered tools improves usability but introduces new training and logistical needs. Mirra said his role as chief, which he assumed in 2022, allows him to influence department-wide training and culture rather than frontline firefighting tasks.
Mirra also described the department’s relationship with the community as strong and said he wants new generations of firefighters to build on current achievements: “Continue what we’re doing, take the good, amplify it, and just continue to create a culture that is focused on saving lives and property,” he said. The host closed by thanking the chief and previewing a future conversation with Deputy Chief Ryan Henry.
