Fire Department · Career
Hattiesburg Fire Department
Hattiesburg, MS · Forrest County
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Department careers page ↗Hattiesburg Fire Department has served the city since April 15, 1904, when it transitioned from a volunteer bucket brigade to a paid department under Chief A.F. Potter and nine firefighters. The department reached early milestones in motorization, adding its first motorized engine in 1915 and the state's first motorized ladder truck in 1939, growing steadily into the modern, multi-station agency it is today.
Today HFD operates eight fire stations across Hattiesburg with roughly 118 uniformed personnel, running a fleet that includes six engines, two aerial/ladder trucks, and two rescue pumpers. The department has held a Class 4 ISO Public Protection Classification rating. Beyond structural fire suppression, HFD responds to emergency medical calls, hazardous materials incidents, and technical rescues spanning high-angle rope, confined space, swiftwater/flood, vehicle extrication, and structural collapse, alongside an active fire safety and public education program.
The department is led by Fire Chief Chris Carr, who took over after Chief Sherrocko Stewart's retirement. In February 2026 the department promoted Cody Keys to Deputy Chief, where he continues to lead the in-house Hattiesburg Fire Academy that trains the department's recruits, and named Captain Kerry Hardges Interim Assistant Chief following unanimous approval by the Hattiesburg Civil Service Commission.
HFD trains its own recruits through the in-house Hattiesburg Fire Academy, led by Deputy Chief Cody Keys.
How many fire stations does Hattiesburg Fire Department operate?
HFD operates eight fire stations located throughout the city, from Station #1 on Main Street to Station #8 on Lamar Boulevard.
When was Hattiesburg Fire Department founded?
HFD became a paid fire department on April 15, 1904, led by Chief A.F. Potter with nine firefighters, after previously operating as a volunteer bucket brigade.
What services does Hattiesburg Fire Department provide beyond firefighting?
HFD provides emergency medical response, hazardous materials response, technical rescue (high-angle rope, confined space, swiftwater/flood, vehicle extrication, structural collapse), and fire safety education.
Who trains new Hattiesburg firefighters?
New recruits train through the department's own Hattiesburg Fire Academy, led by Deputy Chief Cody Keys.
What is Hattiesburg Fire Department's ISO rating?
The department has held a Class 4 ISO Public Protection Classification rating.