Fire Chief’s Message
Fire Chief
Aaron Duncan
As Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Services for the County of Kern, I am deeply honored to lead the Kern County Fire Department (KCFD), a professional organization committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.
From its inception in 1927, the KCFD has developed into an efficient force of over 600 dedicated professionals, providing essential services via 47 fire stations. Our footprint spans over eight thousand (8,000) square miles, encompassing nine incorporated cities, underscoring our daunting yet crucial role in public safety.
Our essential duties go beyond firefighting and extend to emergency medical support, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, fire prevention and education, fire investigation, and emergency management. Through these varied services, we aim to secure the citizens and businesses of Kern County, ensuring that our community thrives in a safe environment. Our collaboration with the State also highlights our commitment to broader fire suppression services in the State Response Areas (SRA).
I am fully aware of the task at hand and the expectations we have set for ourselves. But I am equally confident in the capacity and commitment of the men and women of the KCFD who make our mission possible. Every member of this department is a testament to our core values of Leadership, Integrity, and Service. These values guide our operations and ethos, inspiring us to face daily challenges.
I am immensely proud to be at the helm of such a dedicated team, and I promise you that the KCFD will continue to strive for excellence and put the safety of Kern County citizens at the forefront of everything we do.
Sincerely,
Aaron Duncan
Fire Chief, Kern County Fire Department
Fire & Emergency Services Mission Statement:
“The Kern County Fire Department is dedicated to protecting life and property by providing effective public education, fire prevention, and emergency services. We are committed to proudly serve our community in the safest, most professional, and efficient manner.”
To fulfill our mission we will actively participate in our community, serve as role models, and continually seek ways to maximize resources while preserving essential services deemed excellent by our customers. We will continually evaluate the type of service, method of delivery and equipment needed to perform our duties.
– Safety first is not just a commitment, it is a way of life
– We are responsible for our actions
– People are our most valuable resource
– We will present a positive appearance and attitude
– Compassion, fairness, and integrity are practiced in all our endeavors
– We will promote the use of quality principles, concepts, and technologies
– Pride, the pursuit of excellence, and commitment to customer service are of paramount importance
– We are accountable to those we serve
MISSION STATEMENT: “The Kern County Fire Department is dedicated to protecting life and property by providing effective public education, fire prevention, and emergency services. We are committed to proudly serve our community in the safest, most professional and efficient manner.”
Our value to the community is measured by the fulfillment of these commitments
Core Values:
Integrity- “The consistent demonstration of sound moral and ethical principles unwavering in any circumstances.”
Service- “Providing timely, attentive and upbeat service to the customer/communities; making sure their needs are met in a manner that reflects positively on the department.”
