As Fire Chief, Ginny Cranor is responsible for strategic planning, administration, and operation of 7 Divisions, 6 fire stations, and more than 130 men and women who live our PFD values: dedication, honor, professionalism, and compassion. . The Fire Department serves a diverse population, including: almost 55,000 residents, a dense downtown area, suburban homes, shopping centers, and a busy airport and port facility. Additionally, Chief Cranor works as the City’s Emergency Management Coordinator – coordinating City department preparedness, response, and resources with Escambia County and the State of Florida.
Since 1993, Chief Cranor has been a public servant and firefighter. In 1998, she began serving with Pensacola Fire Department where she promoted to Lieutenant, Captain, and Battalion Chief. She has received Fire Victim Rescue commendations, Life Saving Awards, and the Mayor’s Award of Merit. In 2018, Chief Cranor was appointed by City Council to serve as Pensacola’s Fire Chief.
Chief Cranor has also worked as a Firefighter/Paramedic, Registered Nurse, and spent 18 years as an adjunct Fire Academy instructor focusing on: Disaster Management, Terrorism Response, Live Fire Training, Paramedic/EMT, and Florida Firefighter Standards. Chief Cranor earned Associates degrees from Pensacola State College in Fire Science, Emergency Medical Services, and Nursing. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of West Florida, focusing on community and public health, and has received many fire/emergency certifications. As a life-long learner, Chief Cranor continues her education at the United States Fire Administration’s National Fire Academy. She is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, and serves on the Board of Directors for Manna Food Pantry.