RIVERSIDE FIRE & RESCUE operates as a combination department consisting of Volunteer Firefighters supported by a Fire Chief, Executive Aide, and two Lieutenants. Volunteer staffing is maintained at a minimum of 50 Firefighter/EMTs to ensure operational depth and response capability.
Station 74 maintains daily staffing with a minimum of three personnel on duty at all times, increasing to as many as six when available. When staffing allows, both a fire engine and a Basic Life Support (BLS) aid unit are placed in service.
In addition to front-line apparatus, a command unit staffed by a Chief Officer or designated Duty Officer provides incident command oversight and operational supervision.
OUR COMMAND STAFF is composed of Chiefs and Company Officers responsible for the leadership, supervision, and operational command of Riverside Fire & Rescue. In addition to administrative oversight, Command Officers respond to significant or complex incidents to establish command and ensure safe, effective operations.
Officers are trained to standards established by the Washington State Patrol and hold professional certifications through the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC) and the National Fire Academy (NFA), including Firefighter II, Fire Instructor I, and Incident Safety Officer. These credentials reflect advanced competency in fireground tactics, incident command, operational safety, and personnel leadership.
Kira Thirkield
Fire Chief
Henry
Station Dog | Morale
Doug Thor
Captain | Operations
Amy Devine
Executive Aide
Ethan Longknife
Lieutenant | Operations
Devin Purbeck
Lieutenant | Training
OUR LINE FIREFIGHTER are the personnel who respond directly to your calls for service. Riverside Fire & Rescue firefighters are trained to standards established by the Washington State Patrol and certified through the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). All operational members hold Firefighter I certification and complete an intensive academy that includes live fire training and comprehensive written and practical examinations.
In addition to fire certification, all personnel maintain Washington State EMT credentials and participate in ongoing monthly EMS training consistent with Pierce County standards. Many members also hold specialty certifications in swift water rescue, wildland firefighting, hazardous materials, and technical rope rescue.
Riverside trains and operates in coordination with neighboring agencies throughout Pierce County, ensuring seamless regional response. All drivers complete Emergency Vehicle Incident Prevention (EVIP) training to ensure safe apparatus operation.