Chris Kehr
Redwood City
Summary
I have 29 years in the fire service, including 16 years as a captain and also 35 years as a paramedic, I bring lived experience leading teams in high stress environments. Drawing from my personal journey with the operator syndrome, I’ve designed and implemented holistic wellness programs that educate, build resilience, and eliminate the stigma around mental health. I’m committed to advancing cognitive performance methods while mentoring the next generation of Firefighters and all first responders.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Fire Captain
Redwood City Fire Department
Redwood City, CA
07.2013 - Current
- Mentored new firefighters in developing essential skills and understanding departmental expectations for performance excellence.
- Captain in charge of hiring
- Captain in charge of the Marine Unit ie. Fire boats and pilots
- Truck Captain Responsible for search and technical rescues
Fire Engineer/ Paramedic
Redwood City Fire Department
Redwood City, CA
04.1999 - 07.2013
- Trained junior firefighters on advanced firefighting techniques and equipment usage, fostering skill development.
- Operated hoses, pumps, ladders and other firefighting equipment.
- Responded to emergency calls and provided medical assistance to injured individuals.
Firefighter/ Paramedic
South San Francisco Fire Department
South San Francisco, CA
09.1997 - 04.1999
- Responded to emergency calls, providing rapid assessment and action in high-pressure situations.
- Operated firefighting equipment and tools, ensuring readiness and proper maintenance for effective response.
- Collaborated with team members during drills, enhancing operational efficiency and teamwork skills.
Education
Saddleback College
Mission Viejo, CAParamedicine -
Daniel Freeman Paramedic School
Inglewood, CA01.1990
Department Involvement
- Founded the Department Wellness programs -2010
Developing a holistic approach to the health and wellness of our Firefighters.
Including on duty Yoga, Physical Therapy.
- Created relationships with HR to fund annual on duty Medical testing and eventually funding for Sharp Performance -current
- Founding member County Cancer reduction group -2016
- Founding member Department Peer Support Group -2013
- Currently coaching firefighters through their integration after their psychedelic journey
Awards
Firefighter of the year 2005
Lions Service Award 2016
Bay Area Wide Service Award 2017
Firefighter of the year 2018
Firefighter of the Year 2019
Timeline
Fire Captain
Redwood City Fire Department
07.2013 - Current
Fire Engineer/ Paramedic
Redwood City Fire Department
04.1999 - 07.2013
Firefighter/ Paramedic
South San Francisco Fire Department
09.1997 - 04.1999
Saddleback College
Paramedicine -
Daniel Freeman Paramedic School