About Us

Team

The Fire Department is professionally staffed by 72 personnel assigned to one of three 24-hour shifts for emergency response. In addition, there is the Fire Marshal, a Training Officer, three battalion chiefs, and the fire chief. The department staffs six stations located throughout the city. Administrative offices are located at Station 1, 195 E. Michigan Ave.

Equipment

The department has a minimum of two Engines, two Rescues, one Squad, and one Truck Company in service at all times. The BCFD, as a member of the State of MI 5th District Regional Response Team Network (RRTN) also deploys Hazardous Material Technicians, and Technical Rescue (rope, confined spaced, ice/water, structural collapse, and swift water) capabilities. Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) capability at the Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field are also deployed as needed.  Additionally, up-staffed Medical Response Units (MRU) are deployed as staffing allows.

ISO rating

The BCFD has an Insurance Services Office (ISO) score of 3. This score is a reflection of a community's fire protection efforts and is used across the United States. A department receives a Public Protection Classification from 1 to 10. Class 1 generally represents superior property fire protection, and Class 10 indicates that the community's fire suppression program does not meet the ISO's minimum criteria. 

By classifying communities in this way, the ISO helps communities evaluate their public fire protection services. The program provides a nationwide standard that helps fire departments in planning and budgeting for facilities, equipment, and training. By securing lower fire insurance premiums for communities with better public protection, the program provides incentives and rewards for communities that improve their firefighting services.

Services

The BCFD provides a variety of services, including:

  • Confined space emergencies
  • Fire prevention and public education
  • Fire suppression
  • Hazardous materials response
  • Medical response
  • Pre-fire inspections
  • Rescue