The Nicholasville Fire Department does much more than respond to fires. From medical emergencies and vehicle accidents to fire prevention education and community outreach, its personnel serve residents in a variety of ways every day.
In the latest episode of the City Notes interview series, Fire Chief Craig Cox, Assistant Fire Chief Joshua Bolton and newly promoted Fire Marshal Nathan Hardin discussed their experiences in the fire service, the department’s responsibilities, and how they are preparing to meet the needs of a growing community.
More Than Fighting Fires
The Nicholasville Fire Department operates under the motto “Anytime, Anyplace, Anything.”
According to Chief Cox, the motto reflects the department’s commitment to helping residents whenever and wherever they are needed.
“Any time of day, any place, and any job we will go and we will do to the best of our abilities to help our citizens,” Cox explained.
That commitment extends well beyond fire suppression. Assistant Chief Bolton shared that medical emergencies now account for more than 60 percent of the department’s calls. Firefighters also respond to vehicle accidents, assist other emergency agencies, install smoke alarms and provide public education.
These responsibilities require close coordination with the Nicholasville Police Department, Jessamine County EMS and other public safety agencies. During major incidents, each agency has a distinct role, but all work together to protect residents and provide emergency assistance.
Preparing for a Growing Community
As Nicholasville continues to grow, the Fire Department is planning for increased demand on its personnel, equipment and facilities.
Chief Cox explained that maintaining adequate resources is one of his primary responsibilities. The department is working with City leadership to evaluate future staffing, apparatus and station needs, particularly as development continues in areas such as Brannon Crossing.
One goal currently under consideration is adding another fire apparatus and the personnel needed to operate it by 2030.
Cox emphasized the importance of planning ahead to ensure the department can continue providing reliable emergency services as the community expands.
Fire Prevention Starts With Education
Throughout the interview, all three guests emphasized the importance of preventing emergencies before they occur.
Fire Marshal Hardin, who recently transitioned into his new role, discussed the department’s ongoing work with schools, businesses and residents. These efforts include fire safety presentations, station tours, smoke alarm installations and inspections designed to identify potential hazards.
With colder weather approaching, the department encourages residents to check their smoke alarms, inspect heating equipment and ensure fireplaces and chimneys are properly maintained.
Space heaters should be kept at least three feet from combustible materials and should not be connected to overloaded electrical outlets. Residents should also check carbon monoxide alarms, particularly in homes with fuel-burning heating equipment.
Chief Cox stressed the importance of working smoke alarms and reminded residents that the Fire Department can assist those who need alarms installed.
“If you don’t have them and you need a means to get them, reach out to the fire department.”
Businesses are also encouraged to keep fire protection equipment, including extinguishers and sprinkler systems, properly inspected and maintained throughout the year.
Building Relationships With Nicholasville Residents
Beyond emergency response, the department places significant value on building relationships with residents through everyday interactions.
Hardin explained that conversations during community events, school visits, station tours and even routine encounters around town help residents become more comfortable approaching firefighters with questions.
Education for children is particularly meaningful to the department.
Chief Cox described school visits and station tours as some of the most rewarding experiences of his career. Hardin shared that firefighters have encountered children during emergencies who remembered safety lessons taught during school presentations.
For the department, those moments demonstrate the lasting value of teaching fire safety at an early age.
Supporting the People Behind the Uniforms
The conversation also addressed the challenges firefighters face when responding to difficult emergencies.
Assistant Chief Bolton discussed the department’s efforts to support personnel through a peer support team, chaplain services, critical incident stress management resources and additional training focused on recognizing signs of stress and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Bolton emphasized that the department is committed to making resources available to personnel who may need assistance following difficult incidents.
These efforts reflect the department’s commitment to supporting its firefighters while ensuring they are prepared to serve the community.
Connect With the Nicholasville Fire Department
Residents are encouraged to contact the Nicholasville Fire Department with questions about fire prevention, smoke alarm installations or public education opportunities.
The department can be reached at 859-885-5505, and additional safety information is available through the Nicholasville Fire Department’s Facebook page.
Residents are also invited to attend the department’s Public Safety Day on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riney B Park. The event will feature firefighters, other public safety agencies, demonstrations and hands-on activities for children.
Listen to the full City Notes interview to hear more from Chief Cox, Assistant Chief Bolton and Fire Marshal Hardin about their experiences, the department’s work and its commitment to serving Nicholasville, anytime, anyplace, anything.