This year, the Chanhassen Fire Department is celebrating a milestone 60 years of service to the community, marking six decades of protecting residents, businesses and visitors through emergencies, disasters and everyday calls for help.  

The department was officially organized on May 9, 1966, following several significant events that highlighted the need for local fire protection. Prior to that time, fire service for the area was provided by neighboring departments in Chaska, Shakopee and Excelsior. Events such as the Harold Kerber barn fire, tornado damage and severe winter storms underscored the importance of establishing a dedicated department to serve the growing community. 

Twenty-eight members attended the department's first meeting, where officers were elected and the organization's constitution and bylaws were approved. In those early years, meetings were held at Village Hall and the Pine Grill restaurant, while firefighting equipment was stored at various locations throughout the village. A used siren mounted atop Hansen's Garage helped alert firefighters when emergencies occurred. 

As Chanhassen continued to grow, so did its fire department. The department established a permanent station, expanded its facilities and modernized its fleet to meet the community's evolving needs. Along the way, firefighters became a visible and active part of community life, supporting the department through fundraisers, volunteer efforts and countless hours of service both on and off emergency calls. 

Today, the Chanhassen Fire Department responds to a wide range of emergencies and serves a community that looks very different from the one it protected in 1966. While equipment, training and facilities have evolved significantly over the past six decades, the department's mission remains unchanged: serving the community with dedication, professionalism and a commitment to keeping Chanhassen safe for generations to come.