We’re highlighting the amazing departments we insure around the country and all they do for their communities. For this department spotlight we interviewed Johnson County Fire Protection District in Warrensburg, Missouri!
Your Name & Title: Larry W. Jennings, Chief
Department Type: Combination
When was your department founded?
The District was founded in 1979. Voters approved the formation of the Johnson County Fire Protection District in the November 1978 election to serve the eastern approximate two-thirds of Johnson County, excluding the cities of Knob Noster and Warrensburg. The formation combined the original Johnson County Fire Department, Chilhowee Fire Department, Knob Noster Rural Fire Department, and the Leeton Fire Department.
What communities do you support?
The District encompasses approximately 520 square miles of eastern Johnson County including the communities of Centerview, Chilhowee, and Leeton, along with the unincorporated rural portion of the area. This area also includes the rural areas around the cities of Warrensburg (population 19,638), Knob Noster (population 2,785), and Whiteman Air Force Base (home of the B2 Stealth Bomber). The District also provides service for the University of Central Missouri’s Max B. Swisher “Skyhaven” Airport, the only airport owned and operated by a university in the state of Missouri.
What kinds of incidents does your department commonly deal with?
The District responds to fire and rescue related incidents and does not respond to incidents that are strictly medical in nature. These responses include any type of fire or technical type of rescue including vehicle extrication, water rescues, and other incidents requiring removal of someone from danger.
What types of engines do you have?
The District maintains a fleet of 63 apparatus operating from 12 Stations, including:
-13 KME Engines equipped with 1250 GPM pumps and 1000 gallons of on board water
-11 2000 gallon tankers
-13 Brush trucks
-15 Command, Water Rescue or Support vehicles
-1 Rescue/Extrication vehicle
-1 Mobile cascade breathing air vehicle
-3 Boats
-6 UTV’s and trailers
What fundraisers or other annual events do you host as a department and/or are a part of within your community?
The District does not host any of our own fundraisers as we are a tax supported organization. We participate in various visits to schools, civic and youth groups, and community gatherings such as the University of Central Missouri’s “Get the Red Out” street fair. We also participate in local homecoming parades, Trunk or Treats in multiple communities, and help fundraise for the Johnson County Cancer Foundation and support fundraising efforts by the Johnson County Volunteer Fire Auxiliary.
How has Provident been able to support your department and its members?
We utilize the Provident FirePlus Academy frequently. It has proven to be a great resource for our personnel.
To learn more about the Johnson County Fire Protection District, visit their website and follow their Facebook page here.
