Excellence Under Fire: Rockwall Fire Dept. achieves top state recognition

Rockwall Fire Department earns coveted “Recognized Best Practices Fire Department” designation from Texas Fire Chiefs Association

ROCKWALL, TX (April 23, 2025) – The Rockwall Fire Department is proud to announce that it has been designated as a “Recognized Best Practices Fire Department” by the Texas Fire Chiefs Association Best Practices Recognition Program. This prestigious honor places Rockwall Fire among only 36 departments statewide to achieve this status since the program’s inception in 2013.

The Best Practices Recognition Program rigorously evaluates fire departments against 117 best practice standards developed by fire chiefs across Texas. These standards cover every facet of fire department management—from administration and organization, emergency medical services, training, and special operations to records management, fire operations, prevention, risk reduction, community outreach, response analysis, communications, safety, resources management, and professional conduct.

The process of gaining recognition began several years ago, when the department voluntarily undertook an in-depth self-review of its policies, procedures, facilities, and operations. While many of the 117 best practices were already in place, the process prompted the team to capture and formalize areas that needed enhancement through documented policies and plans. An external audit was then conducted by trained Fire Chiefs and Assistant Fire Chiefs from across the state. Their comprehensive evaluation was subsequently reviewed by the Texas Fire Chiefs Association Best Practices Recognition Board, culminating in the award of Recognized status.

“Receiving the Best Practices designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication that each of our team members demonstrates daily while serving the residents and visitors of our community” said Kenneth Cullins, Fire Chief of Rockwall Fire Department. Rockwall Fire Department remains committed to continuous improvement and excellence in service delivery, ensuring the highest standards of safety and effectiveness for the community.

By Kate Sitzenstatter, Public Information Officer, City of Rockwall, edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News. 

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