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Fire Chief Clarence Coolen shares his personal battle with cancer and how that experience motivated him to prioritize cancer prevention for the Hubbards District Volunteer Fire Department in Nova Scotia by securing new PFAS-free turnout gear for his entire crew — and securing the $170,000 budget for new safety equipment was no easy feat. This is one of several challenges of being a rural fire chief that Chief Coolen addresses, ultimately advising other small-department chiefs to advocate fiercely for their members' safety.
For Chief Coolen, from 19 years-old-on, fire fighting has been more than a duty — it’s a calling. He rose steadily through the ranks, serving as captain, then spending seven years as deputy fire chief before taking the helm as fire chief in 2011. Today, he is the most senior fire chief in his municipality, a distinction earned through years of steady leadership and unwavering commitment. Chief Coolen’s leadership is built on a simple but powerful principle: lead by example. Beyond his home community, Chief Coolen has traveled across the country for specialized work in high-angle and confined space rescue — skills that sharpen his department’s capabilities and readiness.
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