The new chief of the Danbury Fire Department has been sworn into office.  Fire Chief Richard Thode took the oath of office yesterday at City Hall.  Mayor Joe Cavo noted that he brings many years of experience in the career and volunteer fire service.  His last day as chief of the Bridgeport Fire Department was about a week ago. He began his career in Ridgefield and is currently an adjunct instructor for the county's Fire School. 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.