Bedford Fire Department resumes to normal staffing levels

BEDFORD – The Bedford Fire Department has returned to a normal staffing level of nine firefighters per shift.

Previously, due to COVID-19, Bedford Fire Chief John Hughes requested a minimum staffing level of eight firefighters per shift.

Bedford Fire Chief John Hughes requested the Board of Works to accept a new Standard Operating Procedure to allow normal staffing levels at nine firefighters, but in the event of duress or other emergencies, he will be allowed to go to a minimum level of eight firefighters per shift.

The board of works approved his request.

Bedford Fire Chief Hughes also requested that all fires be investigated by the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office. This request comes after the anticipation of the department’s fire investigator retiring. The board of works approved his request.

The final request from Fire Chief Hughes was to change the standard operating procedure for the location of Knox Box keys for businesses and a few residential homes in the city. This request was approved.