News article from 8/16/2024

The Snoqualmie Fire Department has successfully retained its Accredited Agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) as of August 5, 2024. This distinction places Snoqualmie among just 319 agencies worldwide that have earned this status, and among only nine in the State of Washington, putting it in service of only 13% of the U. S. population. The accreditation process is voluntary and involves a rigorous self-assessment and peer verification of service delivery and performance.

Since its first accreditation in 2019, the department has implemented numerous improvements, such as increased community engagement, staff training, updated policies and procedures, and re-evaluation of fire and life safety inspections. The recent re-accreditation also provided recommendations for future enhancements, including evaluating increased call volumes, improving wildland programs and prevention, and updating the department’s strategic plan. Mayor Katherine Ross and Fire Chief Mike Bailey praised the achievement, underscoring it as evidence of the department's commitment to delivering high-quality service and continuously improving. The department first received Accredited Agency Status in 2019, and the recent accomplishment secures its status for the next five years. The Snoqualmie Fire Department serves as a model for other departments through its commitment to quality and excellence.