Snoqualmie Fire Department Retains Prestigious International Accreditation

On August 5, 2024, the Snoqualmie Fire Department in Washington successfully retained its Re-accredited Agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI), a prestigious recognition held by only 319 agencies globally. This status symbolizes the department's commitment to delivering the highest quality of service to its community. Mayor Katherine Ross praised the department's achievement, highlighting its dedication to service. The department initially achieved this status in 2019 and has since completed an intensive re-accreditation process, ensuring its Accredited Agency status for the next five years. The department has fulfilled several CFAI recommendations since its first accreditation, including increasing community engagement, improving fire and life safety inspections, and augmenting department training.

The new accreditation also advised the department to assess its increased call volumes, enhance its wildland programs, and update its strategic plan, which is due to be completed by December 2024. Snoqualmie is among nine fire departments in Washington to hold this status, a list that includes the Bellevue Fire Department and Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority. Fire Chief Mike Bailey lauded the accreditation process for its role in helping the department identify areas for improvement and plan for the future.