The Hayward Fire Department is fully engaged in providing the highest level of fire protection and emergency services today, while working relentlessly to innovate new ways to better serve the community in the future.

The landscape of the fire service is ever changing, and we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of that change.

It is an honor to serve the Hayward Community in this new role. I will continue to make decisions with the needs of its’ residents in the highest priority. Hayward is such a special place, and I am proud to work with all my HFD colleagues to ensure the safety of those who call it home, visit us, or come to do business. 

More about Interim Fire Chief Eric Vollmer

Eric has over 28 years of experience in the fire service. He began his time with the City of Hayward in 1999 and has held the ranks of Firefighter, Captain, Battalion Chief, and Deputy Chief of Special Operations prior to his current assignment. Before promoting to management, Eric spent 10 years as a member of the Local 1909 E-Board (4 as the President). He is most proud of his time spent in the Training Division managing three recruit academies and introducing local youth to the fire service through a partnership with the Eden Area ROP First Responder program. He also worked to renew the department's Critical Incident Stress Management program and managed the Hayward EOC during the pandemic response. Eric has earned an AS degree in Fire Technology from Columbia Junior College and a BA in Biology from Cal State Hayward (now East Bay).