Jeffrey Collins Sworn in as New PBC Fire Rescue Chief

Chief Jeffrey Collins (left) and outgoing Chief Steve Jerauld

Chief Jeffrey Collins (left) and outgoing Chief Steve Jerauld

On Feb. 28, Jeffrey Collins was sworn in as Palm Beach County Fire Rescue’s new administrator. Chief Collins replaces Steve Jerauld, who announced his retirement in January.

Chief Collins is a 19-year veteran of the fire service, serving the past 17 years with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. Prior to his selection, Chief Collins served as a deputy chief and fire marshal with PBC Fire Rescue.

“I am very pleased we found a chief officer within the ranks of the department,” said County Administrator Bob Weisman. The Board of County Commissioners unanimously ratified Chief Collins’ appointment.

Chief Collins is the current president of the Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association. He holds a Master of Science degree from Palm Beach Atlantic University and a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland.

Chief Collins will be just the third chief in PBC Fire Rescue history, following Jerauld and Herman Brice, who retired in 2009. Chief Jerauld began as a volunteer for Palm Beach Gardens Fire Rescue and was hired by Military Park Station 23 as a medic. After consolidation, he worked his way up the ranks, at one point becoming a fire marshall, just like Chief Collins.