Fire Department

The mission of the Elkhart Fire Department is to preserve life, protect property and safeguard communities through relentless commitment to emergency preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery.

The Elkhart Fire Department has served the community since 1867. Today, it is a full-career department with an ISO 2 protection class, earned in 2017—a reflection of its commitment to all-hazards emergency response, fire prevention, and risk-reduction programs across more than 30 square miles.

EFD’s 157 firefighters operate from seven stations, staffing five engines, two squads, four ambulances, and one aerial apparatus. The department also cross-staffs additional units, including ARFF, wildland, hazmat, water rescue/dive, and a second aerial apparatus, ensuring they are ready to respond as needed.

Specialized response capabilities include a Hazardous Materials Team, Technical Rescue Team, and Water Rescue Team, serving both the city and surrounding communities.

Operations include the EMS Division, Training Division, and the Inspection/Investigation Bureau. Training and EMS report to Assistant Fire Chief Kristi Sommer, while administration oversees the budget, fleet services, and risk management programs.

EFD’s specialized personnel include 47 licensed paramedics, 82 EMTs, 33 hazmat technicians, 15 water rescue technicians, 7 technical rescue technicians, 6 fire/EMS instructors, and 2 EVT/ASE-certified mechanics supported by three shift personnel.