Houston Fire Department

The Houston Fire Department was established in 1838 with one station, Protection Company No. 1. It grew to a volunteer fire department status with three stations by 1859.

After having provided volunteer firefighting services for 57 years, the City of Houston Fire Department began paying its firefighters in 1895. HFD is the fourth largest fire department in the United States and is responsible for preserving life and property to a population of more than 2 million in an area totaling 617 square miles.

HFD Key Goals:
1. Be Safe
• Enhance the health and safety of HFD members
• Improve fire prevention and public safety awareness
• Improve emergency response operations
2. Be Nice (Improve Customer Service)
• Strengthen and reinforce a positive public perception of the department
• Embrace Diversity
• Fairness
3. Be Accountable
• Provide adequate resources
• Practice fiscal responsibility
• Implement best business practices to increase organizational effectiveness, accountability and communications
• Strengthen management and leadership skills