FIRE CHIEF NAMED A PROFESSOR

Surrey's fire chief has been named adjunct professor to the
University of the Fraser Valley (UFV).

Len Garis has worked closely with the university in the past on
several studies, including marijuana grow operations in Surrey, and
how likely homes are to burn.

UFV criminology professor Darryl Plecas said that Garis is a great
pick for adjunct professor.

"We are thrilled to have Chief Garis join the School of Criminology
and Criminal Justice as an adjunct professor," Plecas wrote. "The guy
is a genius, his approach is consistently scientific and
evidence-based, his initiatives are cutting edge, he is constantly
coming up with fundamentally better ways of doing things, he's an
outstanding teacher, our students love him, and he is a highly
respected leader in the field of public safety. Needless to say, his
contributions to public safety in Canada have been significant."

Garis said Wednesday he's humbled by the appointment.

"It's an honour and a privilege and I'm extremely excited."

He will remain on as Surrey's fire chief, but he notes the
appointment gives him access to research grants and the potential to
work more closely with the university team.

He will be actively teaching at the university as well.

Garis said the appointment gives him further opportunity following
his tenure as Surrey's fire chief.