City of Independence Iowa, Fire Department

09/13/2026

Independence Fire Department is officially kicking off our Public Education Campaign regarding the proposed addition and improvements to the Independence Fire Station that will appear on the ballot November 3, 2026.

Over the past several years, Independence has continued to grow and so has the demand placed on your Fire Department. Our call volume has increased significantly, our equipment and staffing needs have grown, and the space available in our current station has become increasingly limited.

Simply put: we have outgrown our current facility.

Members of the Independence Fire Department, City leadership, City staff, architects, and engineers have spent the past year carefully evaluating our current needs, future growth, available options, and the long-term needs of our community.

The proposal on this November's ballot would authorize up to $14.5 million for improvements that include a planned addition to our existing fire station, along with the possibility of acquiring land for future development if needed.

The phrase “not to exceed” is important. This is a maximum authorization not a promise to spend $14.5 million. If the project is bid and constructed for less, only the funds necessary would be used. We understand that these are your tax dollars, and responsible stewardship of those dollars is a priority.

Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing information about:

🔹 Why our current station no longer meets our needs
🔹 What the proposed addition would provide
🔹 How the project was developed
🔹 Our current and projected service demands
🔹 The financial side of the proposal
🔹 How this investment could serve Independence for decades to come
🔹 Answers to frequently asked questions

Most importantly, we want our community to be informed.

This isn't simply about building a bigger fire station. It's about making sure Independence has the facilities, space, and resources necessary to provide effective emergency services today and to be prepared for the needs of tomorrow.

On November 3, the voters of Independence will decide the future of our station and an important piece of the future growth of our community.

We encourage everyone to learn about the proposal, ask questions, have conversations, and make an informed decision.

09/12/2026

Tonight, the Independence Police Department and Independence Fire Department were proud to stand together in support of the Mustang Football team during their home opener.

At the same time, we proudly displayed the American flag in remembrance of September 11, 2001, honoring the nearly 3,000 innocent lives lost 25 years ago and remembering the countless first responders, military members, families, and citizens whose lives were forever changed that day.

Twenty-five years later, we still remember.
We remember the lives lost.
We remember the courage shown.
We remember the sacrifices made.
And we will Never Forget. 🇺🇸

Thank you to our community for coming together tonight to support our Mustangs and to honor the meaning behind the flag we proudly serve under every day.

09/11/2026

On September 11, 2001, our nation was changed forever.

Today, we remember the nearly 3,000 innocent people who lost their lives and honor the courage and sacrifice of the firefighters, police officers, EMS providers, military members, and civilians who answered the call to help others.

For the fire service, September 11th carries a particularly deep meaning. 343 FDNY firefighters made the ultimate sacrifice while doing what they had dedicated their lives to doing serving and protecting others.

A special thank you to Chief Lau for presenting members of the Independence Fire Department with 25th Anniversary of 9/11 commemorative pins as a token of appreciation and remembrance.

These pins serve as more than just a piece of metal. They are a reminder of the sacrifice made that day, the lives forever changed, and the responsibility we carry forward as members of public safety.

09/07/2026

This Labor Day, we take a moment to recognize and thank the hardworking men and women who help keep our community, our state, and our country moving forward.

But have you ever wondered why we celebrate Labor Day?

Labor Day has its roots in the American labor movement of the late 1800s. During a time when many Americans worked long hours, often under difficult and dangerous conditions, workers began organizing and advocating for better working conditions, fair wages, reasonable hours, and safer workplaces.

The first Labor Day celebration was held in New York City in 1882, and the holiday continued to grow in popularity. In 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed Labor Day into law as a federal holiday, officially recognizing the contributions and achievements of American workers.

Today, Labor Day is more than just the unofficial end of summer. It is a day to recognize the work ethic, dedication, sacrifice, and contributions of working Americans.

That is something we understand well here at the fire department.

Firefighters don't simply respond when the tones drop. They train, maintain equipment, attend meetings, educate the public, help our neighbors, and stand ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Whether career, part-time, or volunteer, the commitment to serving others is something we are proud of.

This Labor Day, we want to say THANK YOU to all of the hardworking people in Independence and throughout our community. From farmers and factory workers to teachers, healthcare workers, business owners, public safety personnel, and everyone who gets up every day and goes to work to make our community better we appreciate you!

09/04/2026

The Independence Fire Department is incredibly excited to announce that this year’s MDA Boot Drive raised a record-breaking $6,019!

This incredible total would not be possible without the generosity of our community. Last week, so many of you stopped by, rolled down your windows, dropped money in the boot, and took the time to support a great cause.

Every dollar donated helps support the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the important work they do for individuals and families living with neuromuscular diseases.

To everyone who donated, shared our posts, encouraged others to give, or simply took a moment to thank our firefighters while they were out collecting THANK YOU! We are proud to serve a community that continues to step up and support others. This record belongs to YOU, Independence!

09/03/2026

Long before modern fire trucks, protecting a growing town took immense community grit. This incredible photo features the Independence Steamer Company No. 1

FRIDAY - "Artifact Spotlight" - Independence Fire Dept. 1874

08/29/2026

Planning a backyard barbecue or a cozy night around the bonfire? Before you strike that match, let’s talk fire safety!

In our latest video, we put two different types of fire starters side-by-side to show you that not all products work the same way. What works for a contained charcoal grill isn't always identical to what you need for a roaring bonfire and using them incorrectly can lead to dangerous flare-ups.

Quick Safety Checklist Before You Ignite:
Read the Label: Always check the manufacturer's directions. Burn times, application methods, and flare-up risks vary wildly between brands and types (gels, cubes, liquids, or blocks).

Never Add to Live Flames: Never sq**rt or place fire starter onto an already established fire or hot coals this is a leading cause of sudden flash fires.

Keep a Safe Distance: Ensure children and pets stay well back, and keep a water source or fire extinguisher nearby.

Watch the full video to see the differences in action and learn how to keep your next cookout or campfire both fun and safe!

08/28/2026

Today, members of the Independence Fire Department are out supporting the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and the families they serve.

Come find us at:
Kwik Star Corner
Walmart
Fareway

You'll see our firefighters out with the MDA boots collecting donations. If you see us, stop by, say hello, and drop a little something in the boot!
Every dollar helps support individuals and families affected by muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related diseases. No donation is too small!

We appreciate the continued support of the Independence community. You have always supported us when we need you today, we're asking you to help us Fill the Boot!

08/26/2026

Buchanan County Ambulance is HIRING! Click on the original post to learn more and how to apply today.

WE’RE HIRING!

Buchanan County Ambulance Service is a new, county-owned ambulance service, and we’re building our team!

We are launching a new ambulance service dedicated to providing high-quality emergency medical care to the Buchanan County community.

We are currently hiring for several positions and offer competitive wages, IPERS, and other great benefits.

Scan the QR code to learn more and apply!

Job postings are also available on the Buchanan County website and Indeed.

EMS Association - IEMSA

08/26/2026

Happy National Dog Day from Independence Fire Department!

Today, we’re celebrating two very important members of the IFD family Crisis Canine Shakespeare and K9 Blaze!

Shakespeare serves as our Crisis Canine, providing comfort, support, and a calming presence for our firefighters when they need it most. The job can be tough, and sometimes a wagging tail and a little unconditional support can make all the difference.

K9 Blaze brings a whole different kind of energy to the firehouse! As our department’s mascot, Blaze plays an important role in public education and community outreach. He helps us connect with our community, especially our younger residents, and reminds everyone that fire safety education can be fun!

While they have very different jobs, both Shakespeare and Blaze have earned their place as part of the Independence Fire Department family. We’re pretty lucky to have them around!

Share a photo of your dog in the comment section below!!