SOAP LAKE – Grant County Fire District 7 has welcomed a new chief, Erick Brittain, who brings with him a wealth of experience and a passion for community service, he said. After a distinguished 25-year career as a firefighter-paramedic, Brittain's journey into firefighting began in the mid-1990s with a shift in career aspirations that uniquely shaped his path. 

Originally pursuing a degree in education at Central Washington University, Brittain's interests were redirected after he began working at Les Schwab, where he observed the benefits enjoyed by firefighters. 

"I saw guys coming in and they all had really nice trucks and worked like eight days a month," he said. “Then, kind of ironically, my grandparents' house burned down within the same time frame, and I just saw how they worked. And I'm like, I'm changing my major.” 

This realization motivated him to change his major to Paramedicine, a decision that laid the groundwork for a fulfilling career, he said. 

Brittain started his career at the City of Moses Lake Fire Department and later joined Spokane County Fire District 9, where he eventually advanced to the position of captain.  

A pivotal moment in his career occurred when he took a leap into administration through a virtual interview, which led him to the position of fire chief in Anaconda, Mont. After his tenure in Anaconda, Brittain expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity at Grant County Fire District 7.  

"The things they were doing were just amazing," he said. “Chief (Chris) Baker really set me up for success. A lot of the foundation is already here. I have been telling the guys that he was phase one of making this the best department. Now, we are entering phase two, where I take over and we get even better.”  

Baker left GCFD 7 to take another job, Brittain said.  

“We've got a phenomenal fleet right now, and we owe it all to Chief Baker, big, big shoes to fill. However, I want to continue that legacy and that momentum that he started,” he said.  

Taking on the chief position, Brittain said he has set clear priorities to enhance the district's operations in his first year.  

"First off, strengthen those partnerships... we’re only as good as our partnerships and our relationships," he said.  

By collaborating closely with local, state and federal partners, he aims to maximize available resources for improved service delivery. Brittain specifically mentioned a commitment to bolster training programs within the fire and EMS departments by implementing advanced life support capabilities.  

"I've been a paramedic for 25 years now, and I want to increase service delivery to a more advanced level," he said.  

He also said he would like to work with the community to begin a paramedicine program with people who could do house visits about fall prevention and partner with constituents to do other preventive work.  

When discussing the challenges that await, Brittain acknowledged budget constraints as a universal issue in firefighting.  

"Budget is always on the top of our mind," he said, emphasizing his intention to leverage grant opportunities and foster a culture that prioritizes fiscal responsibility.  

Recruitment also stands out as a critical challenge for rural fire departments.  

"I think that the youth in rural areas kind of feel stuck, and if we can give them a vision and a purpose, that’s super important," he said, revealing plans to initiate a cadet program in partnership with local high schools. 

Brittain said his leadership style is characterized by a strong commitment to servant leadership, emphasizing the growth and proficiency of staff within the organization.  

"I’ll support you no matter what you want to do," he said, underscoring his dedication to fostering the personal and professional development of his team, whether in firefighting or not.  

Under his guidance, Brittain said he aims to cultivate a close-knit community within the department that values mentorship and collaboration across various backgrounds. 

With a total of 26 volunteer firefighters, three full-time captains, and administrative support, Brittain is optimistic about the caliber of his team.  

"We’ve got a good, solid core group," he said, and he believes that everyone brings valuable skills to the table, regardless of prior firefighting experience.  

As a returning resident of the area, Brittain appreciates the local community, noting connections through family and friends.  

"The people here have been amazing so far," he said. 

As an empty nester, he and his wife enjoy outdoor activities and are committed to their growing family of pets.  

As he steps into this new role, Brittain expresses his excitement for building a culture of continuous improvement at Grant County Fire District 7. He said he is dedicated to ensuring not only effective response capabilities but also the overall well-being of the community members he serves.  

"We owe it to our constituency to answer the call not just during a 911 event but to improve their overall health," he said. 

    Last week, Erick Brittain was sworn in by the Board of Commissioners as the new Grant County Fire District 7 chief.