The Newport News Fire Department has achieved Accredited Agency status by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). The award was presented at the Center for Public Safety Excellence Awards Ceremony on August 14th, 2008 in Denver, Colorado.  There are fewer than 130 accredited agencies out of approximately 35,000 fire departments throughout the country and only nine accredited agencies in Virginia.  The accreditation verifies that the Newport News fire department has met the highest standards for effectiveness and efficiency in responding to emergencies.

“This recognition as an Accredited Agency demonstrates the Fire Department’s professionalism, excellence in organizational development and strong commitment to providing outstanding fire and emergency services to our citizens,” said City Manager Randy Hildebrandt.

Fire Chief Ken Jones said, "I want to express my sincere thanks to every member of the Fire Department and particularly the accreditation team for the effort put forth.  I also want to thank the City Manager and City Council for their continued support of the organization.  Without their commitment, we could not have achieved this recognition.”

Accreditation status culminates months of rigorous preparation by the fire staff and scrutiny by the accreditation team.  Following a period of self-assessment, a six-day on-site evaluation took place last month by a team of peer assessors from across the country.  The evaluation process included verification and validation of programs and services provided by the department, and in-depth reviews of city and Fire Department policies, principles, and practices as they relate to the more than 240 performance indicators.  

About the Commission on Fire Accreditation International

The Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) is an entity of the Center for Public Safety Excellence that assists fire and emergency service agencies in achieving organizational and professional excellence through its strategic self-assessment model, accreditation process, and continuous quality improvement. To learn more about CFAI, visit www.publicsafetyexcellence.org.