Fire Department

A Message from the Chief 

As Fire Chief, it is an honor to lead a dedicated team of professionals who serve this community with compassion, professionalism and respect. Our department motto, “Striving for Excellence and Exceeding Expectations,” is more than words, it is the standard that drives everything we do.

Whether we’re responding to emergencies, providing public education, supporting community events, or training for high-risk scenarios, every member of our department is committed to exceeding expectations. Our team is here for you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We are more than first responders – we’re neighbors, educators, and advocates for safety and preparedness.

We are proud of several key achievements that reflect our ongoing commitment to excellence. Temple Terrace holds a Class 1 rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO) a distinction awarded to less than 1% of fire departments nationwide. This top-tier classification not only recognizes the quality of our fire protection services but also contributes to lower insurance premiums for residents and supports economic development throughout our city.

We are also recognized as an Accredited Agency through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), a distinction we've held since 2006. Accreditation affirms our commitment to continuous improvement, accountability, and transparency. It means we routinely evaluate our performance, seek out opportunities for growth, and remain focused on delivering the best possible service to the community.

Staying connected with our community through outreach, engagement, and open communication is a top priority. I encourage you to explore our services, learn more about our programs, and follow us on social media to see the many ways we proudly serve Temple Terrace. 

On behalf of the men and women of the Temple Terrace Fire Department, thank you for your continued support. It is our privilege to serve this amazing city.

Sincerely, 

Ian M. Kemp
Fire Chief

Call if You Can, Text if You Can't

Residents or visitors to Hillsborough County can send a text message to 911 for help during an emergency. While calls are still the best and fastest way to contact 911, text messages are an option when a call may not be possible.

For answers to Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Temple Terrace Fire Department, click here.