Orleans Fire Chief Pike Announces Retirement

ORLEANS – After 31 years of full time service, Anthony Pike will step down from his position as chief of the Orleans Fire Department in 2020.

Pike took over as chief in May of 2014, replacing William Quinn who had been fire chief since 2008.

“It’s a bittersweet decision, I wish I could stay way past this summer but it’s time for me to move on,” Pike said as he addressed selectmen at their recent meeting.

“I would like to thank the men and women of the Orleans Fire Department for their dedication and support, we are so fortunate to have a dedicated group of individuals that really make it easier for me.”

Selectmen have not yet selected Pike’s successor, however Pike showed support for Deputy Chief Geoff Deering.

“Deputy Chief Deering is probably the most talented chief officer that has ever served the fire department in my last 40 years,” continued Pike.

“He’s the real deal, he’s an incredible administrator, he’s a really good firemen, and he’s just one of the most dedicated individuals I’ve ever seen in the fire service.”

Selectmen at the meeting thanked Pike for his years of service, with selectman Meff Runyon calling Pike an amazing fire chief.

Pike also mentioned the addition of a full-time EMS coordinator, Leslie Vasconcellos which he said will enhance the town’s Stop the Bleed program, which drew in over 250 participants last year.

At the meeting, call firefighter Teddy Duchesney was promoted to a provisional firefighter.

Pike said the vacant firefighter/paramedic spot will be filled by Ben Nickerson who formerly worked with the Brewster Fire Department.

Pike had lobbied during his tenure to see a new fire station built in the town.

While there are no plans to move ahead with a new station, progress is being made on getting a traffic signal for the entrance of the current station on Eldredge Parkway, which has long been a safety concern.