A new fire chief has been confirmed by the Danbury City Council. Bridgeport Fire Chief Richard Thode will lead Danbury's career department. Thode began his career in Ridgefield and is currently an adjunct instructor for the county's Fire School. He also volunteers for the Bethel Emergency Medical Services Advisory and the Fire Apparatus Replacement Committee. Thode has received countless awards and citations for exceptional service, including Bridgeport's highest award for bravery for his solo rescue of an elderly woman from a house fire during a blizzard.  Thode’s last day as chief of the Bridgeport Fire Department is June 18.