Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Fire Safety Partner in Burlington, KY
Established in 1943, our organization has dedicated itself to safeguarding the Burlington community through professional fire and emergency medical services. Our team of 27 full-time personnel, including cross-trained Firefighter/EMTs and Paramedics, operates 24/7 to ensure rapid response across 38 square miles. We serve a growing population of approximately 20,000 residents, protecting diverse environments from residential areas to industrial sites. With over 3,295 annual emergency responses, we maintain modern equipment including advanced ambulances and fire apparatus.Our commitment extends beyond emergencies through public education programs, fire inspections, and community outreach initiatives. We operate under a transparent governance structure with a seven-member Board of Trustees and maintain competitive tax rates for sustainable service delivery. Our history of continuous improvement since the volunteer era reflects our core principle of prioritizing community needs with vigilance and professionalism.
Services
Fire Suppression
Emergency Medical Services
Fire Inspections
Hydrant Testing
Smoke Detector Installation
CPR Training
Fire Safety Education
Car Seat Installation
Firehouse Tours
Burn Permit Management
Details
- Year established: 1943
Highlights and features
- We maintain 24/7 emergency response coverage with ALS-certified personnel
- Our team includes cross-trained Firefighter/Paramedics with specialized equipment
- We conduct over 450 annual fire safety inspections across commercial and residential properties
- Our public education programs include CPR training and firehouse tours for community preparedness
- We operate under strict financial transparency with one of the lowest tax rates in Boone County
What people say
24/7 availability
Professional staff
Quick response times
Helpful training programs
Well-maintained equipment
Services
Fire Suppression
Our fire suppression team provides rapid response to structural fires, vehicle fires, and hazardous material incidents. Utilizing modern apparatus including ladder trucks and brush trucks, we maintain 24/7 readiness across our 38-square-mile service area. With specialized training in advanced fireground tactics, our personnel ensure effective fire control while prioritizing life safety.
Emergency Medical Services
We deliver advanced life support services through two ALS ambulances staffed by Firefighter/Paramedics. Our EMS team provides critical care for medical emergencies, trauma incidents, and interfacility transports. With at least two paramedics on duty 24/7, we ensure timely pre-hospital care and coordination with regional healthcare providers for optimal patient outcomes.
Fire Inspections
Our fire inspection program ensures code compliance for commercial businesses, schools, and multi-family housing. Conducting over 450 annual inspections, we identify hazards, verify emergency systems functionality, and implement KNOXBOX rapid access solutions. This proactive approach reduces fire risks while maintaining regulatory compliance for local businesses and institutions.
Public Education
We offer fire safety education programs for schools, daycare centers, and civic organizations. Our initiatives include hands-on firehouse tours, CPR certification courses, and car seat installation assistance. These programs aim to increase community preparedness through practical knowledge sharing and direct engagement with residents of all ages.
Hydrant Maintenance
Our annual hydrant testing program ensures reliable water supply systems for firefighting operations. Crews systematically inspect and maintain hydrants across the district, verifying flow rates and mechanical functionality. This critical infrastructure maintenance supports effective fire suppression capabilities while identifying necessary repairs to maintain system reliability.
People
Jeff Barlow
Fire Chief
Chief Jeff Barlow leads the department with over two decades of fire service experience. He oversees daily operations, strategic planning, and community relations while maintaining active emergency response roles. His leadership emphasizes professional development and resource optimization.
Rob Butcher
Assistant Chief
Assistant Chief Rob Butcher manages training programs and operational readiness. With extensive EMS background, he coordinates medical protocols and personnel development to maintain high service standards across all emergency responses.
Chris Black
Assistant Chief
Assistant Chief Chris Black supervises equipment maintenance and facility operations. He ensures apparatus readiness and infrastructure improvements while supporting incident command during major emergencies across the district.
Michelle Vogelpohl
Administrator
Administrator Michelle Vogelpohl manages financial operations and public records. She coordinates budget development, tax reporting, and administrative functions to support transparent governance and efficient resource allocation for department operations.
David Conrad
Trustee
Trustee David Conrad represents appointed board members overseeing district governance. He participates in policy development, budget approvals, and strategic oversight to ensure responsible stewardship of public resources for fire protection services.
Questions
How do I schedule a firehouse tour?
Visit our website to submit a tour request form or call the station directly at (859) 586-6161 during business hours for scheduling assistance.
What fire safety programs are available?
We offer CPR training, car seat installation services, school fire safety education, and customized fire prevention presentations for community groups.
How are fire district taxes calculated?
Residential taxes are $0.17 per $100 of assessed value, with a median home tax of $493 annually. Motor vehicle rates cap at $0.20 per $100 valuation.
Can I request a smoke detector installation?
Yes, our department provides free smoke detector installation and testing services for residential properties. Schedule appointments by calling (859) 586-6161.
What burn restrictions apply in the district?
Daytime burning bans apply during spring/fall wildfire seasons within 150 feet of wooded areas. No current active burn restrictions are in place.
How do I become a junior firefighter?
Download the application from our website, complete required sections, and submit in person at 6050 Firehouse Dr. for our youth development program.
