New state fire marshal named

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah has a new state fire marshal. Edward “Ted” Black, who has been the chief deputy since 2013, has been appointed to the post by the Utah Department of Public Safety. Black replaces Coy Porter, who retired.

“Ted’s experience in various aspects of the fire service qualifies him for this post,” said Jess Anderson, Commissioner of the Utah Department of Public Safety. “I am confident that Ted’s leadership in the Fire Marshal’s Office will continue to further our mission of keeping Utah safe.”

Black brings extensive experience to the position. Prior to joining the Utah Department of Public Safety, he spent 12 years as the fire marshal for the Weber Fire District. Earlier in his career, Black worked in Salt Lake County for eight years . Duties included stints as a fire prevention engineer and deputy fire marshal. That followed time in the business world as a fire sprinkler systems designer and project manager.
The Utah Fire Marshal’s Office was established in 1964 and consists of 27 members. In accordance with the state fire prevention law, the organization “identifies, develops, and promotes ways of protecting life and property from fire-related perils through direct action and coordination of Utah fire services.”