Message from the Fire Chief

On behalf of the dedicated men and women of the Ketchikan Fire Department, welcome to our official website.

The Ketchikan Fire Department is proud to serve Alaska’s First City with professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Every day, our firefighters, paramedics, officers, and volunteers stand ready to respond—whether it’s a fire, medical emergency, rescue, or public safety need.

Our mission is simple yet powerful: to protect and serve our community through safety, service, and excellence. Guided by this mission, we hold fast to the values that define who we are:

Integrity – Doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

Professionalism – Holding ourselves to the highest standards in training and service.

Respect – Treating every person with dignity, both on and off duty.

Compassion – Meeting people in their most difficult moments with care and empathy.

Teamwork – Working together with our members, partners, and community.

Innovation – Always open to new ideas and solutions that help us serve better.

We believe in being more than just a fire department—we are a trusted partner, a visible presence, and an active part of our community. From emergency response to fire prevention, from public education to community events, our goal is to keep Ketchikan safe, prepared, and resilient.

As Chief, I am incredibly proud of the professionalism, dedication, and heart our department demonstrates daily. Whether you meet our team during an emergency or at a community event, know that you are in the hands of individuals who truly care about this community and the people who call it home.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about us. I encourage you to explore our website, get involved in our community risk reduction programs, and connect with us on social media. Together, we can continue to make Ketchikan a safe and thriving place to live, work, and visit.

Respectfully,
Chief Rick Hines
Ketchikan Fire Department