The administration of the District’s personnel, physical assets, financial affairs, and planning is led by the Fire Chief. The District’s Fire Chief is Michael Runk.  Chief Runk began his career with the District as a volunteer firefighter in July of 1990. He has served in each rank. 

The Combat Division is the District’s largest division. The Combat Division is comprised of three shifts. Persons assigned to this division work a 24/48 hour shift. They report to work at 7:00 a.m. and work a 24 hour tour. They are then normally off for the next 48 hours.

Each shift is comprised of a Battalion Chief, three Engineers, and four Firefighters. Combat personnel respond to emergencies, train for various emergency situations, maintain the stations and equipment, conduct company inspections, and assist with public education activities.

The members of the Combat Division are represented by the Southwest Florida Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics, Local 1826 IAFF Inc., District 8.

Fire Suppression – Structural fires, vehicle fires, and wild land/brush firesEmergency Medical Services – Medical and trauma emergenciesVehicle accidents/entrapmentSpecial operations – Confined spaces, Canal/Waterway rescue, and Hazardous Material Incidents

Inspection and maintenance of our apparatus and equipment, Training, Annual Business Fire Inspections, New Construction Fire Inspections,  Pre-fire planning of buildings, Street mapping, Fire Hydrant Maintenance, Public Education assignments, Routine house cleaning and maintenance of our fire stations, Physical fitness training.