They are there when you are in need asking, “How can I help you?”

These are the extraordinary men and women of the fire department. 

They are bravely going into the most dangerous situations every day to protect you and your property. 

Even when they’re not on the job, firefighters can often be found serving the community in many different ways; supporting charitable causes, volunteering, and coaching sports. 

They are simply remarkable people and getting to know a bit more about them means that, even in an emergency, you will recognize the friendly face that comes to help. 

Chris Stewart, Firefighter
Saratoga Springs Fire Department

I have been a firefighter with the department since August 2014. 

I’ve also been an assistant varsity baseball coach at Saratoga Central Catholic High School since January 2016. 

My dad and grandfather were both professional firefighters for the Green Island Fire Department and my grandfather and uncle on my mom’s side are former officers/members with the Village of the Stillwater Fire Department. 

Prior to becoming employed with Saratoga Springs, I volunteered for the Arvin Hart Fire Company in Stillwater and have experience with the Waterford Police Department, Stillwater EMS, Malta EMS and North Queensbury EMS. 

Because of the professional firefighters in my family, I always wanted to be a professional firefighter, too. I stopped playing college football and baseball at Mount Ida early to make sure I had time to complete the paramedic course at Hudson Valley Community College in time for the civil service test and to be hired on at the Saratoga Springs Fire Department. 

My favorite part of the job is the station life, having an additional family in the good times and the bad times. No matter what the calls are, once we get back to the station there is a family element. 

My personal goal is to be an officer one day. I want to advance myself as a firefighter and be one that my dad and my grandfather would have wanted to work with.

Aaron Dyer, Battalion Chief
Saratoga Springs Fire Department

I have been proudly serving the City of Saratoga Springs for 21+ years. I currently manage the Fire Prevention Office, Code Enforcement Office and share in the day-to-day operations of the department.

I also have a passion for snowmobiling and working to maintain the trails in Saratoga County. I enjoy camping and spending time with family and friends.

My father was my inspiration to become a firefighter. He was a member of a volunteer fire department and encouraged me to join.

I love being able to work with my co-workers and the public every day - whether it is during an emergency, in fire prevention or at a special event. In the position I am in, I am able to listen to the needs of my co-workers and the public, and help steer the fire department into the future.

I am always working towards advancement within my profession, continually updating my education. I also strive to spoil my niece, nephews and god children.

John Marra, Firefighter
Saratoga Springs Fire Department

I have been a firefighter and paramedic for five years. 

I’ve always had a passion for helping people. My dad was a volunteer and so it has always intrigued me.

My favorite part of the job is that everyday you walk in the door; you never know what you will be doing – every day is different. 

In my family, there are my parents, my sister, and I have three nephews. When I have free time, I enjoy jet skiing, snowmobiling, and riding my motorcycle. 

I also just completed my Bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management at SUNY Empire State.

Matt Derway, Lieutenant
Saratoga Springs Fire Department

I have been a firefighter for 26 years, beginning as a volunteer. I also served six years in the New York Air National Guard as a firefighter. I became a full-time firefighter for Saratoga Springs in 2006. 

I play hockey with the Saratoga Springs Fire Department hockey team, along with helping to coach my son, Lucas, and his hockey team.I also enjoy golf, music, and play drums. 

My father was an EMT. Watching him help people showed me that it’s the right thing to do.

We respond to all sorts of calls – not just fires. My experience has taught me to contain a situation as quickly as possible, so everyone gets out safely.

I hope to move up through the ranks at the department and continue my education with the fire service.