Firefighter Kyle promoted to lieutenant

Longboat Key Interim Fire Chief Paul Dezzi announced Tuesday that firefighter paramedic David Kyle has been promoted to the position of lieutenant.

Kyle, who has been with the department since October 2004, will assume his new responsibilities July 15 at the north fire station, 5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Kyle replaces retired Lt. Doug Dakel, who retired after 25 years of service to the fire department.

Promoting the position from within, Dezzi said the department held a promotional assessment for the lieutenant position with five internal candidates.

The assessment included a fire scenario, emergency medical service scenario, two human resources scenarios, a classroom presentation and an interview.

Said Dezzi: “The department wishes to thank Lt. Dakel for his leadership during his tenure and is proud to announce that David Kyle is the newest officer of the department.”

Kyle is also a fire instructor, fire investigator and Haz-Mat operator.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].