Santa Ana Fire Chief Dave Thomas is a native Californian who grew up in Santa Ana and graduated from Santa Ana Valley High School. He attended Cal State Los Angeles and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Fire Protection Administration and Technology. He also obtained an Associate degree form Santa Ana College. He has completed both his Chief Officer and Fire Officer certifications from the California State Fire Marshal.

Chief Thomas has held a number of management positions with increasing responsibility since joining the department in 1984 as a reserve firefighter. Most recently he was interim fire chief but also served as deputy chief, battalion chief, captain, and firefighter paramedic. He has been a member of the Departments’ Hazmat, UASR, Swift Water teams and California Task Force - 5.

The Santa Ana Fire Department has protected businesses and residents in the city since 1883.  Today the department continues that legacy by providing critical public safety and emergency services through its 10 stations manned by 280 trained personnel, including 204 sworn employees.

Chief Thomas brings many years of diverse service and is committed to providing the highest level of emergency and business services to the city, community, and its visitors. He loves the Fire Service and feels privileged to be the Fire Chief.

Chief Thomas lives in Corona with his wife and two sons. The family enjoys outdoor activities, skiing, motorcycling, boating, traveling, and trips to the Colorado River.