New Haven welcomes new fire chief
The New Haven Fire Department is officially under new leadership.
On Tuesday, Daniel Coughlin was sworn in as the new chief of the city’s fire department.
Coughlin had been serving as the acting chief since January after being appointed by the mayor following the retirement of longtime fire chief John Alston.
He was unanimously approved by the New Haven Board of Alders on Monday.
“Danny Coughlin is a son of New Haven. He cares deeply about the fire department. He cares deeply about our city. He’s a lifelong New Havener and 4th-generation member of the fire department,” Mayor Justin Elicker said.
In 2023, Coughlin’s now-late father, retired firefighter William Coughlin, pinned him when he was promoted to assistant chief of operations, and this time, Coughlin’s eldest son Jack, did the honors.
Coughlin’s partner, Stephanie Ferraiolo, along with Coughlin’s sons Joey and Jack, were present for the swearing-in ceremony.
“I knew this was always a dream of his, I don’t know if he ever truly believed he would get here. We believed it but I don’t know if he believed it,” said Ferraiolo.
Coughlin expressed his gratitude for the promotion, adding he never thought he would climb the ranks as fast as he has.
“It means the world to me. The New Haven Fire Department is the greatest bunch of men and women going and it’s an honor to lead them,” Coughlin said.
During his two months as acting chief, Coughlin has put together peer support training for firefighters and has been working on reinstating the department’s clergy program.
“We’re going to be swearing in four new chaplains for spiritual guidance for the members, but also for ceremonies and positive things too.”
Deputy Chief Miguel Rosado was one of the many firefighters in attendance.
As a partner and friend of Coughlin, Rosado said he is looking forward to seeing Coughlin inspire the next generation of firefighters in the city.
“Think about any kid who has a childhood dream where they see a police officer, where they see a firefighter, even the mayor from their own neighborhood. It shows that someone young can actually have that dream and obtain that position,” Deputy Chief Rosado said.
As fire chief and a senior member of the City of New Haven’s public safety team, Coughlin will be responsible for leading the more than 300-member department.
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