With the summer season and patriotic festivities in full swing, the role of the fire department is in clear view, as drier conditions increase fire risk and fireworks enjoyment does not always go according to plan. Plus, there is the annual iconic view of the American flag hoisted above I Street by an MFD ladder truck for the 4th of July Parade.
The Modesto Fire Department celebrates its 150th anniversary of service to Modesto and the greater community in 2025. Leading the Modesto Fire Department and its regional operations is Chief Kevin Wise, who was named Chief in June 2024. Having been with the Modesto Fire Department since 2022, his appointment to MFD’s top job follows over 20 years of firefighting, administrative experience, and fire education. So for the child who dreams to be a firefighter when they grow up, or the engaged citizen, let’s meet Fire Chief Kevin Wise.
MV: MFD is celebrating a major milestone—150 years of serving and protecting the Modesto community. What does that mean to you and the Department?
KW: Reaching 150 years is a powerful reminder of our deep roots in Modesto. It speaks to generations of firefighters who dedicated their lives to protecting this community. For all of us at MFD, it’s an honor to carry on that legacy. This milestone reaffirms our commitment to service, safety, and progress. We’re so excited about the upcoming Fourth of July parade, where our department will be honored as the “Hometown Hero” celebrating our 150th anniversary.
MV: Last month marked one year since you were officially named MFD Chief. What are you most proud of accomplishing in your first year?
KW: I’m incredibly proud of how our team has come together over the past year. We’ve made progress in modernizing equipment with the purchase of five fire engines and two ladder trucks. We also completed a Standards of Coverage study to examine our deployment model, which will be vital when making future decisions regarding the department’s operations. We are also finally making some headway with the Fire Station 1 remodel, which has been in the works for several years.
MV: What drew you to public service and firefighting?
From a young age, I was drawn to teamwork and helping others. Firefighting combined both. The ability to make a tangible difference—whether it’s saving a home, mentoring new recruits, or educating the public—drove me into public service and keeps me motivated every day. I grew up in this community, so to serve our citizens is such an honor and one that I will forever cherish.
KW: What do you see as top priorities for MFD?
Ensuring firefighter safety, improving response times, and continuing to invest in training and technology are top priorities. We’re also focused on community risk reduction—educating the public, preventing fires before they start. Emergency medical services are also a top priority. It’s our goal to have a Paramedic Firefighter on every apparatus to provide advanced life support to our residents. I’m hopeful that we can make this a reality in the next few years.
MV: What are some of the challenges facing MFD right now?
KW: Like many departments, we face growing service demands with finite resources. Wildfire risk in the rural areas we serve, staffing pressures, and aging infrastructure are ongoing challenges. But we’re actively addressing these issues by securing funding, developing talent, and planning for the future.
MV: Measure H has had a positive impact on the city’s investment in community resources. How has it impacted MFD?
KW: Measure H has been instrumental in helping us hire more firefighters, replace outdated equipment, and invest in station improvements. It’s allowed us to be more proactive in our planning and better serve the Modesto community. We’re deeply grateful to voters for their support.
MV: Modesto has had its share of notable fires. Is there one that sticks out to you and why?
KW: Last year’s Franklin and Downs 12th Street Fire is definitely one that will always stick out to me. The fire occurred shortly after I was sworn in as the Fire Chief. Early in the incident, a significant explosion occurred just as firefighters entered the three-story building. The blast was so powerful that it blew a large portion of the roof off the building, nearly missing firefighters below. We could’ve lost several firefighters that day. As far as large-scale incidents, the 2018 downtown warehouse (Crescent Supply) fire comes to mind—it was a significant incident due to the scale, complexity, and community impact. It highlighted the bravery of our crews and the importance of a coordinated response. It also prompted changes in how we train and respond to similar risks.
MV: Going into the summer heat, what can Modestans do to be prepared and minimize fire risk at home?
KW: Clearing dry brush around your property, keeping gutters clean, safely storing flammables, and having a family evacuation plan are all key steps. And of course, never leave BBQs or fire pits unattended. Prevention starts at home, and small actions make a big difference.
MV: What is something most people may not know about our Fire Department?
KW: Many people don’t realize we handle a wide range of emergencies beyond fires—medical calls, hazardous materials, technical rescues, and more. We’re also deeply involved in community outreach and education, which is a vital part of our mission.
MV: What plans are in store for historic Fire Station 1, Modesto’s oldest operating fire station?
KW: Station 1 holds a special place in our history. We’re working on plans to preserve its historic character while upgrading its facilities to meet modern needs. It’s essential that we honor our past while preparing for the future. An agreement has been reached with a local architect to assist with the project, and we are currently in the design phase. We hope to be under construction this time next year.
MV: If MFD had a firehouse dog, what would you name it?
KW: That’s a fun one—maybe “Ember” or “Chief.” Or “Mo” for Modesto pride!
MV: What does an ideal Modesto day look like for you?
KW: A morning bike ride through one of our beautiful parks, connecting with community members at a neighborhood event, and ending the day knowing that MFD is prepared and ready to respond to our community’s needs. That’s a good day.
MV: If you had an unlimited budget, what special project would you consider?
KW: I have many ideas, but I would bolster our staffing at all levels, including operations, fire prevention, and administration. At the end of the day, it’s our personnel on the ground that make the difference day in and day out. I’d also invest in a state-of-the-art training facility that could serve not only MFD but also regional agencies. It would enhance readiness, foster collaboration, and provide the safest, most realistic environments for our crews to train. I’ve had this idea for a command and leadership certification program for several years, which would feature several realistic simulators for incidents that a fire officer may encounter. It would also encompass a fire leadership academy similar to the National Fire Academy.
MV: What safety tips would you share for people who partake in “safe and sane” fireworks?
KW: Always read and follow directions, never light fireworks indoors or near dry vegetation, and keep water or a hose nearby. Supervise children closely and never try to relight a “dud.” Dispose of used fireworks properly—and remember, safety first.
MV: Our signature question—Beatles or Stones?
KW: Tough one, but I’ll go with the Beatles. Can’t go wrong with timeless classics and a message of togetherness.
