City of Raleigh, NC
12/13/2024 | Press release | Archived content
RFD’s Health and Safety Division Gets New Chief
Alexandra Gutierrez is RFD's new safety chief.
The Raleigh Fire Department has a new safety chief: Alexandra Gutierrez. Gutierrez, who has worked for Raleigh Fire for 18 years, most recently served as a battalion chief. She'll begin leading the Health and Safety Compliance Division on Jan. 1, 2025, succeeding long-time RFD veteran Keith Wilder, who is retiring.
"We have selected a phenomenal replacement as our next safety chief," Wilder said, adding that Gutierrez is shadowing him for six weeks to help ensure a smooth transition and continued attention to existing projects and initiatives.
The Health and Safety Compliance Division, established in 2021, ensures the wellbeing and safety of RFD staff. An important part of the work is conducted by Incident Safety Officers (ISOs), who respond to a variety of emergency incidents. In addition, the department's psychologist and chaplain report to the safety chief.
Chief Keith Wilder will retire at the end of December.
"Investing in employee health, wellness and safety benefits everyone," Wilder explained. "Good health and safe practices contribute to maintaining affordable healthcare plans by reducing the frequency and cost for injuries. Safe practices also contribute to the reduction of vehicle accidents."
Gutierrez holds a master's degree in education, and a bachelor's degree in criminology. Additionally, she has earned numerous certifications including fire officer, hazmat technician and technical rescue. She has also earned certifications as an incident safety officer and a peer support specialist.
"I'm excited to work with my team to continue building a culture where safety and health are at the heart of everything we do," she said.
Raleigh Fire Chief Herbert Griffin said he's excited to see Gutierrez take on the new role. "I'm confident she will bring fresh perspectives and energy to the Health and Safety Compliance Division as we continue our commitment to enhance the health and safety of our department and the community we serve," he said. "I look forward to working with Chief Gutierrez and wish her much success as she steps into this important role."