The principle services provided by KCFD are: fire protection, basic life support, emergency medical service, rescue and hazardous materials response.
The department provides services from thirty four fire stations located strategically throughout the city. The department is organized into seven battalions and each of the stations is assigned to one of seven on-duty battalion chiefs.
The department operates thirty-four Pumper Companies (engines), twelve Truck Companies (aerial ladders), three Rescue Companies (technical rescue), one ARFF Company (aviation rescue and fire fighting), one HazMat Company (hazardous materials), seven battalion chiefs, incident command response units and one on-duty deputy chief who serves as the city wide commander for all fire department activites.
The fire department's top manager is the fire chief which is a position set forth in the city charter. Three civilian assistants to the fire chief are assigned to general administration, human resouces and administrative support/finance.
The uniformed portion of the department is segmented into six specialities which include the following bureaus: Community Services, Professional Development, Technical Services, Special Operations and Emergency Operations. Each bureau is managed by a deputy chief.
Specialized units within the department include air/light support units, a technical resuce support unit, six water rescue boats, a high rise support and a fuel tender.
KCFD is actively involved in efforts to prepare the community for natural and man-made disasters. The department is a key player in the Mid America Regional Council's Homeland Security Coordinating Committee. This multi-disciplinary group coordinates policy development, planning, training and equipment for the metro area's Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) which is funded through the United States Department of Homeland Security.
The hallmark of the department is the labor/management partnership program that exists between Fire Administration and Locals 42 and 3808 of the International Association of Fire Fighters. Local 42 represents the rank and file personnel of the department and Local 3808 represents the battalion chiefs and middle management personnel of the organization. This partnership is designed to include the labor force as a participant in every significant decision within the department concerning policies and programs.
The Fire Department's mission is "To protect and serve our community with commitment and dedication to excellence." Every encounter with a citizen or guest is an opportunity to fulfill our mission. Members of this agency must stand committed to deliver their very best with each opportunity to serve.
