Who We Are
The Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) is statutorily responsible for administering the affairs of the county in fire suppression and prevention, fire training, arson investigation, rescue services and emergency medical services. The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Command within HCDFRS has the lead responsibility for county-wide emergency management planning, preparedness, and response.
Mission, Vision and Core Values
Mission
To maintain a safe environment and high quality of life in Howard County by educating, protecting and serving our citizens, members and visitors.
Vision
We will be a global model of a fully integrated combination volunteer and career fire, rescue, and emergency medical services organization, providing diversified services to promote life safety in our community.
Core Values
Recognizing the dedication and skill of all members, we will create and maintain an environment of individual safety, well-being, and trust. We are guided by: Service to Others, Integrity, Honesty, Accountability, Professionalism, Compassion, Respect, and Safety. Embracing and celebrating diversity has been a reason why Howard County residents enjoy a high quality of life. All members of HCDFRS, career and volunteer, will continue their efforts to remove any obstacles that limit opportunities for personal goals to be achieved due to discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age and disability.