Independence Fire District

 

Mission and Scope of Services

The Independence Fire District is dedicated to providing fire and emergency services focused on fire prevention and suppression, protection of life and property, and administering aid through certified EMTs. Serving a 43-square-mile area with a population of approximately 50,000, the department offers:

  • Fire Suppression: Structural and wildland fire response.
  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Advanced life support by EMTs and paramedics.
  • Rescue Operations: Confined space and high-angle rope rescue.
  • Community Risk Reduction: Fire safety inspections and public education.

Note: The department does not handle explosive device disposal or hazardous materials offensive operations.

Organizational Structure

The department is governed by a seven-member District Board:

  • Three members appointed by the Kenton County Judge Executive (3-year terms).
  • Two members elected by property owners (4-year terms).
  • Two members elected by fire department membership (4-year terms).

The board oversees finances, levies taxes (up to 20 cents per $100 of assessed property value), and meets publicly on the third Wednesday of each month at Station 1.

Leadership

  • Fire Chief Scott Breeze (since 2000)
  • Assistant Fire Chief Nick Russell (since 2005)
  • Assistant Chief/EMS Director Phill Dietz (since 2017)
  • Medical Director Dr. Jason Murray

Please note: The Independence Fire District is not part of the city government but is its own separate entity that serves an area much larger than the City of Independence.

Personnel

The department employs 57 personnel:

  • 41 career firefighters
  • 12 part-time firefighters
  • 4 volunteers

All paid personnel are certified EMTs or paramedics. The department is supported by the Independence Professional Firefighters Local 3945.

Stations

The district operates three 24/7 stations:

1980 Delaware Crossing, Independence, KY 41051
Phone: 859-356-2011 | Fax: 859-356-3624
Administrative headquarters.

740 Cox Road, Independence, KY 41051
Phone: 859-363-0434

4118 Richardson Road, Independence, KY 41051

Equipment

The department maintains a modern fleet:

  • Engine 451: 2022 E-One Typhoon (1500 GPM, 780-gal)
  • Engine 452: 2019 E-One Typhoon (1500 GPM, 780-gal)
  • Engine 453: 2007 Sutphen Shield (1500 GPM, 750-gal)
  • Truck 460: 2023 E-One Typhoon (1500 GPM, 500-gal, 75-ft ladder)
  • Medic 463-465: 2016-2019 Ford F-550 / Horton ambulances
  • Brush 468: 2005 Ford F-350 (30 GPM, 100-gal)
  • Car 475: 2006 Ford F-350 utility
  • Antique: 1937 Chevrolet / Darley pumper (parades)

Community Engagement

The department engages through:

  • Community Connect: A platform for residents to share emergency information.
  • Public Education: Fire safety and prevention programs.
  • Social Media: Active on Facebook with over 5,700 followers.
  • Events: Participation in the Independence Day Parade (July 5, 2025).

Contact Information

  • Main Office (Station 1): 1980 Delaware Crossing, Independence, KY 41051
  • Phone: 859-356-2011 | Fax: 859-356-3624
  • Emergency: 911
  • Non-Emergency (Dispatch): 859-356-3191
  • Website: independencekyfire.org
  • Facebook: IndependenceFireDistrict