Worcester County Appoints New Director of Emergency Services
Image courtesy Worcester County
The search for a permanent director of Worcester County Emergency Service has come to an end. Worcester County Commissioners have appointed Chris Shaffer as the new director – beginning August 11th. Shaffer will oversee Worcester County Emergency Services which includes the 911 Communications Center, Emergency Management and the P25 800 Megahertz Radio Division. Shaffer brings over 38 years of experience in public safety and over a decade of emergency management leadership. Fire Marshal Matt Owens, who has served interim director, will continue to oversee all aspects of the Fire Marshal’s Office.
Additional information from Worcester County Commissioners:
A graduate of Stephen Decatur High School, Shaffer began his career in 1987 with the Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) as a fire/EMS dispatcher. He rose steadily through the ranks, becoming assistant fire chief of the Career Division in 2008 and deputy chief in 2016.
In addition to his extensive field experience, Shaffer holds an Associate of Applied Science in Emergency Medical Services from Wor-Wic Community College (2006) and an Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University (2008).
“I’m honored to step into this role and lead the exceptional men and women who make up Worcester County Emergency Services,” Shaffer said. “This team plays a critical role in the safety and well-being of our communities every single day. I look forward to working closely with our county fire companies, law enforcement, and partner agencies to enhance our emergency preparedness and response capabilities.”
As director of Emergency Services, Shaffer will be responsible for coordinating emergency management efforts, overseeing the County’s 911 system, maintaining the public safety radio infrastructure, and serving as a liaison to local police, fire, and EMS agencies. He will also guide the County’s Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP), and related emergency plans in collaboration with the County’s GIS Department to maintain an accurate and comprehensive address system.
Shaffer’s appointment follows a period of interim leadership by Fire Marshal Matt Owens, whose service ensured continuity and stability within WCES during the search for a permanent director.
“We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Matt who stepped up when we needed him most to temporarily lead WCES,” Chief Administrative Officer Weston Young said. “On top of his duties as director of the Fire Marshal’s Office, Matt guided every aspect of WCES until we found the right person to take the helm. His dedication and leadership made all the difference, and we’re truly grateful for his commitment to our community.”
Owens will continue to oversee all aspects of the Fire Marshal’s Office, which serves as the local enforcing agency for the County and three municipalities, carries out all provisions of the Maryland and Worcester County laws relating to fires, fire prevention, protection, inspections, investigations, and explosive incidents. Both the Fire Marshal’s Office and WCES coordinate with multiple local, state, and federal public safety agencies to prepare for and respond to emergencies.