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Branson fire chief touts Station 4 opening, training gains and accreditation push
Summary
Fire Chief Ted Martin reported on 2024 accomplishments including opening Fire Station 4, added personnel and a push toward accreditation and an improved ISO rating, while cautioning that upgrading to ISO Class 2 would require seven‑figure investments.
Fire Chief Ted Martin told the Board of Aldermen that the department opened Fire Station 4 on May 1, added 12 positions and has increased training and equipment replacements — all part of an effort to improve service, reduce losses and pursue accreditation.
Chief Martin said the department is “striving for excellence through accreditation,” and that the new station improved response metrics. He recalled that the Insurance Services Office had told the city, “build station 4, and you should be good to go for an ISO class 2,” but that a subsequent review showed additional investments would be needed. “To get to the 2, you’re gonna be spending 7 figures,” he said.
Martin reviewed 2024 and 2025 highlights: replacement of bunker gear and technical‑rescue equipment, added protective equipment for hostile events, installation of source‑capture exhaust systems for fleet health, and completion of a collective‑bargaining agreement with the department’s union. He said more than a thousand calls dropped year‑over‑year after the department adjusted response models and reduced unnecessary deployments; the department also reported lower fire losses and estimated $85 million in property saved owing to quick responses, automatic alarms and sprinklers.
The chief outlined efforts to reduce simultaneous (dual) calls — which fell from about 41% to 35% after Station 4 opened — and highlighted safety and training commitments. He said most firefighters are required to complete 240 hours of annual training and that many staff receive far more.
Board members praised the department’s performance and noted the connection between improved response and lower homeowner insurance ratings tied to ISO classifications. The mayor and members thanked the department and emphasized continued city support for staffing, infrastructure repairs to older stations and accreditation work.
Chief Martin said the department will continue data‑driven efforts to reduce response gaps, pursue accreditation metrics and report back to the board as projects and staffing change.
