Hoover Fire Department Receives Distinct Accreditation

HOOVER, AL — The Hoover Fire Department recently received its accreditation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. The department is one of 291 accredited fire departments in the U.S. and the only municipal fire department in the state of Alabama to be both accredited and hold an Insurance Services Office class 1 rating.

The HFD began the accreditation process approximately two years ago. This included a self-assessment of current operations, critical tasking of department operations and a site assessment by a peer review team. The process consisted of evaluating the department on 10 categories, 45 criteria, and 252 performance indicators; 86 of which are core competencies.

These categories include: Governance and administration, assessment and planning, goals and objectives, financial resources, programs, physical resources, human resources, training and competency, essential resources and external system relationships.

The process also involved the development of a community risk assessment/standards of cover and a 5-year strategic plan which provides a business model for future decisions.

Accreditation is not a one-time accomplishment but an ongoing evaluation of the department’s programs to ensure it meets the ever changing needs of the community. The HFD will be up for re-accreditation in five years.

"Fire Chief Bentley would like to thank all fire department personnel for their participation," The HFD said in a release. "Mayor Brocato, City Administrator Rice and Hoover City Council for their support; and other city personnel who assisted with the process."