City Proclaims 150th Anniversary of the Key West Fire Department

Key West Mayor Danise "DeeDee" Henriquez and the City Commission, during their regular meeting, proclaimed October 9th the 150th anniversary of the Key West Fire Department.

Initially established as a volunteer fire company in 1834, the citizens of Key West reorganized it into a fire department in 1875 with 103 firefighters.

In April of 2015, the Key West Fire Department integrated Emergency Medical Services into the Fire Department, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness for residents and visitors.

Today the Key West Fire Department is a Class #1 ISO Rated Fire Department, the highest achievable public protection classification and a distinction held by less than one percent of fire departments nationwide. Rapid response times, outstanding and continuous training, and much more have earned the rating, which translates to insurance rate savings for home and business owners.

Over the past 150 years, the members of the Key West Fire Department have demonstrated courage, dedication, and selfless service, making ultimate sacrifices to protect the lives and property of the community.

On Saturday, October 11th, the Fire Department will be hosting an anniversary celebration at the Truman Waterfront from 1-4 p.m. There will be a parade of the departments' equipment, food, demonstrations, and family-fun activities.

In the photo: Standing -- City Manager Brian L. Barroso, Commissioner Monica Haskell and Lissette Carey, Mayor Danise "DeeDee" Henriquez, Fire Chief Alan Averette, Division Chief Jason Barroso, Vice-Mayor Donie Lee, Commissioner Aaron Castillo, Lt. Dereck Berger, Capt. Thomas Bouchard, and Commissioner Sam Kaufman. Kneeling: Lt. Michael Anderson and Capt. Tim Anson.