As Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Services for the County of Kern, I am deeply honored to lead the Kern County Fire Department (KCFD), a professional organization committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.
From its inception in 1927, the KCFD has developed into an efficient force of over 600 dedicated professionals, providing essential services via 47 fire stations. Our footprint spans over eight thousand (8,000) square miles, encompassing nine incorporated cities, underscoring our daunting yet crucial role in public safety.
Our essential duties go beyond firefighting and extend to emergency medical support, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, fire prevention and education, fire investigation, and emergency management. Through these varied services, we aim to secure the citizens and businesses of Kern County, ensuring that our community thrives in a safe environment. Our collaboration with the State also highlights our commitment to broader fire suppression services in the State Response Areas (SRA).
I am fully aware of the task at hand and the expectations we have set for ourselves. But I am equally confident in the capacity and commitment of the men and women of the KCFD who make our mission possible. Every member of this department is a testament to our core values of Leadership, Integrity, and Service. These values guide our operations and ethos, inspiring us to face daily challenges.
I am immensely proud to be at the helm of such a dedicated team, and I promise you that the KCFD will continue to strive for excellence and put the safety of Kern County citizens at the forefront of everything we do.