Fire Department

Hello Columbia Community,

I’m Brian Schaeffer, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself as your new Fire Chief. It’s an honor to join this unique and vibrant community, and I’m excited to get to know the people who make Columbia such a special place to live.

First, thank you for stopping by our website. Whether you’re here to learn about our services or simply exploring, we’re glad you’re taking the time to connect with us. The Columbia Fire Department, a cornerstone of this community since 1875, has a rich service history with a mission that has grown to offer a wide range of programs to keep you and your family safe.

After spending several decades in the fire service, I’ve learned that the heart of any fire department is its people—both the dedicated professionals who serve and the community members we protect. What drew me to Columbia was the evident shared commitment to health and safety and the overwhelming support and trust the Columbia community has given us. 

We are passionate about ensuring that we’re responding to emergencies and working hand-in-hand with you to reduce risk. Our team is here for you, 24/7, ready to help in any way we can—whether that’s through our emergency services, community education, or just being a supportive resource in your neighborhood.

I look forward to meeting many of you in the coming months and working together to keep Columbia safe and strong. Thank you for your continued support and trust in your Columbia Fire Department.

Sincerely,

Brian Schaeffer, Fire Chief