Message from the Fire Chief
Fire Chief
Douglas Short
Welcome to City of Independence, Missouri Fire Department.
It is my privilege to represent the outstanding men and women who proudly serve our community. Our organization works as a team to provide high-quality emergency services and public education programs.
We are continually striving to meet the needs of the community through the dedicated efforts of 177 members assigned to one of seven divisions: administration, operations, prevention, services, professional development, emergency medical services and emergency preparedness.
We operate 10 strategically-located fire stations with a daily minimum staffing of 41 firefighters and officers, eight pumper companies (includes one hazardous materials company), one quint, one squad, two ladder companies, two rescue companies and one shift commander. In addition, our daily operations are supported by a staff of six chief officers, five fire inspectors, an emergency preparedness manager, emergency preparedness planner and four administrative specialists. We protect an area of 78 square miles.
In 2018, we responded to 21,556 calls for service, including fire suppression, emergency medical services and hazardous materials incidents.
A vital feature within our mission is the prevention of fires and accidents which we address through comprehensive, proactive fire prevention efforts and public education programs. In 2018, the department conducted 129 fire and life safety education programs for a total audience of 8,280. These programs included visits to schools, senior citizen groups, health and safety fairs, block parties, and fire station tours and demonstrations.
The department was reviewed by the Insurance Services Office (ISO), and its Public Protection Classification (PPC) was changed from a Class 4 to a Class 2 rating effective August 1, 2014. Class ratings range from 10 (worst) to 1 (best).
Natural and man-made disasters in and around Independence can have significant impacts on the community. Therefore, our mission statement reflects the need for our fire department to plan and operate in a manner that supports a wide range of emergency services:
“The Independence Fire Department will meet the challenges of present and future community needs through pro-active leadership, dedication to our core values, provision of quality All-Hazard emergency services, and community risk-reduction strategies in an efficient and effective manner.”
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact us at fireonline@indepmo.org or me directly at dshort@indepmo.org. We can also be contacted at 816-325-7123.
Please join our mission in protecting our community together.
Accountability – Compassion – Consistency – Fairness – Honesty – Integrity – Professionalism – Respect – Service (internally and externally)