Dubuque Fire Department Awarded International Accredited Status

Dubuque Fire Department One of 300 CFAI Accredited Globally

The Dubuque Fire Department announced today that it has received Accredited Agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) for meeting the criteria established through the CFAI’s voluntary self-assessment and accreditation program.

The Dubuque Fire Department is now one of fewer than 300 fire departments in the world and just five other departments in Iowa to be accredited.

“This achievement of Accredited Agency status demonstrates the commitment of the department and city organization to provide the highest quality of service to our community,” said Dubuque Fire Chief Rick Steines. “It’s not what you get, it’s what you become. You don’t get accredited, you become accredited, and as an accredited agency you build a culture of improvement.”

“This was never more apparent and appreciated than during the COVID-19 pandemic"  said Dubuque City Manager Mike Van Milligen, who added, "[T]here is no working from home for our brave firefighters and medical officers. This is the culmination of over five years of work in preparation for this day.  I want to especially recognize the work of Fire Chief Rick Steines, Lead Accreditation Manager Assistant Chief Kevin Esser, and former Accreditation Manager and current Assistant Accreditation Manager Assistant Chief Josh Knepper.  We are very proud of our fire department and the people who work in the department protecting property and lives every day.”

For more information, visit: cpse.org/accreditation/.