The Owensboro Fire Department has earned international accreditation, a distinction held by fewer than one percent of fire departments worldwide.
The honor was presented through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International on Wednesday during the Center for Public Safety Excellence Conference in Orlando, Florida. With the designation, the Owensboro Fire Department becomes the fifth accredited fire department in Kentucky.
Fire Chief James Howard said the recognition reflects years of work by firefighters and department leadership to evaluate and improve every aspect of the agency’s operations. Efforts included the development of a strategic plan, a comprehensive community risk assessment and standards of cover document, and an extensive self-assessment of its fire and emergency services operations.
“It required us to take a close look at every aspect of our operations to ensure we are providing the highest level of service to our community. I am incredibly proud of our team and grateful for their commitment to continuous improvement and excellence,” Howard said.
City Manager Nate Pagan said the designation demonstrates the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards while remaining accountable to the public.
“This achievement is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of our firefighters and leadership team,” Pagan said. “Our community should be incredibly proud of this accomplishment.”
The evaluation process is considered the gold standard for fire service agencies and reviews departments on areas including leadership, community risk reduction, training, response capabilities, and long-term planning.
Last week, the Owensboro City Commission formally adopted the department’s Community Risk Assessment and Standards of Cover document, a step tied directly to the accreditation process.
Pagan told commissioners at the time that the document outlines the types of risks faced in the community — including fires, hazardous materials incidents, and medical emergencies — and evaluates how the department deploys resources to address them.
Pagan said the document also details how the department currently responds to those risks and includes a multi-point improvement plan created by Howard.
City officials said the accreditation will help guide the department’s long-term strategic planning and ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of the Owensboro community while maintaining a high level of fire and emergency services.
