History tells us that the City of Frankfort has had tax supported fire service since the early 1820's. In those days, the fire department consisted of eight men who served as engineers. These men took command at any fire alarm and conducted regular fire drills. They also made sure that the engine (horse drawn) was properly attended to and they were given the power to require the assistance of any citizen at a fire alarm. Anyone who refused was liable to a fine. The department also had its own fire prevention program, requiring that every household had one two-gallon leather bucket for up to three fireplaces in each home. Owners of rental property were also required to supply the required number of buckets to their tenants. Any property owners who failed to supply the required number of buckets were subject to a fine of one dollar per month for each bucket he was deficient. The buckets were the major firefighting tool during those early days and every firefighter was required to bring his buckets when he reported to a fire alarm or a drill. If he forgot his buckets, he faced a two dollar fine.

An ordinance passed by the Common Council (known today as the City Commission) on January 24, 1895 to establish and maintain a fire company and prescribing rules and regulations for the government thereof. The members of the Fire Department, the Fire Chief, Hydrantman, Drivers (Hose Wagon and Hook and Ladder Wagon), Pipeman and two Runners were elected by the Common Council and were to hold office for one year. The annual re-election was scheduled for the December meeting. The Fire Chief was to receive an annual salary of $240. The Hydrantman, Drivers, and Pipeman were to receive an annual salary of $540 and the Runners received $96 a year.

Today the Frankfort Fire Department provides fire protection and prevention service to citizens in a twenty-two square mile area of the Capital City. Since 1970, the department has also provided Emergency Medical Service (E.M.S.) to Frankfort and Franklin County. In October 1989, this service was expanded to include Advanced Life Support (ALS). Paramedics in addition to Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT's) respond to emergency calls throughout the City and County. The department responds to approximately 7,000 ambulance calls and around 1,000 fire calls each year.

The department is made up of 91 full time employees, who maintain four fire stations and administrative offices. The administrative office includes: the Fire Chief, Assistant Chief, Fire Marshal, EMS Director, EMS Training Coordinator, Training Officer, Administrative Assistants, and Emergency Management Director.

The inter-structure of the fire department is comprised of three separate crews or shifts with twenty-seven personnel. Each crew mans four fire stations providing fire and ambulance service. The crews are staffed with a Battalion Chief, Captain, Lieutenants, Sergeants, Firefighters/EMT's and Paramedics.

Emergency Management for the City of Frankfort falls under the direction of the Fire Department. The Emergency Management Director is responsible for developing and maintaining the City's Emergency Operations Plan.

During major disasters or catastrophes, citywide emergency operations are managed by the Emergency Management Director in conjunction with the resources of Franklin County and the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management. Depending on the extent of the emergency situation, Frankfort Emergency Management may assume anything from a limited to a major role.

Citizens Fire Academy

Applications may be picked-up at the Fire Administration Office at 300 West Second Street or click on the link below.  Class size is limited!

We sincerely hope that this experience will enhance your knowledge of Frankfort Fire & EMS and the services that we provide to the community.

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