Columbus, MS Fire and Rescue Department
06/29/2026
Today, we honor Battalion Chief Robert "Chip" Kain as he begins a well-earned retirement after more than 27 years of dedicated service to the Columbus, MS Fire and Rescue Department
Throughout his career, Chief Kain has served the citizens of Columbus with integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. Along the way, he has shared his knowledge and experience with countless firefighters, helping develop future leaders and making our department stronger.
We are grateful for his years of sacrifice, dedication, and the positive impact he has had on our department and the community we serve. Thank you for your leadership, friendship, and commitment to the fire service.
Congratulations on your retirement, Chief Kain. We wish you many years of happiness, good health, and the opportunity to enjoy this next chapter with your family and friends while doing the things you enjoy most.
Thank you for your service. While you'll be missed around the firehouse, the knowledge and experience you've shared will continue to benefit Columbus Fire & Rescue for years to come.
10-7... Out of Service. 🚒🔥
Badge #271
06/19/2026
🚨 Meet your IFR Staff - Employee Spotlight ⭐️
This week, we’re proud to spotlight Melvin Junkin. Melvin serves full time as a Captain for Columbus, MS Fire and Rescue Department and has a total of 21 years of service in the Fire Department‼️
🏆 Accomplishments:
* Structural Collapse, Swift Water, Trench Rescue
* EMT
* Fire Officer I + II
What inspired you to become a Firefighter?
- “I always enjoyed helping people and this seemed like a great career to get into.”
What do you enjoy most about Industrial Fire & Rescue?
- “Spending time with great co workers”
Vision for the Future?
- “I am excited to become a future instructor for the upcoming Regional Training Center.”
Coffee or Energy Drink?
-Sweet Tea
Favorite Station Meal
- Definitely ice cream (chocolate)
Favorite Piece of Equipment
- “JAWS OF LIFE because they save lives”
🌧️ HEAVY RAIN IN THE FORECAST?
SLOW DOWN AND STAY SAFE. 🌧️
Familiar roads can become dangerous when visibility drops and water begins to accumulate. Most weather-related crashes happen on wet pavement, not snow or ice. Arriving a few minutes late is far better than not arriving at all.
✅ Turn your headlights on (not just daytime running lights)
✅ Reduce your speed and increase your following distance
✅ Avoid using cruise control on wet roads
✅ Watch for standing water and never drive through flooded roadways
✅ Use extra caution on bridges and overpasses
✅ If visibility becomes too poor, safely pull over and wait for conditions to improve
Stay alert, stay patient, and stay safe!
🚒 Columbus, MS Fire and Rescue Department Serving and protecting our community, rain or shine.
🏠 Protect What Matters Most 🏠
A working smoke alarm can cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half. The early warning it provides can make all the difference when seconds count.
Here are a few simple smoke alarm safety tips from Columbus Fire & Rescue:
✅ Test your smoke alarms monthly.
✅ Replace batteries at least once a year, or when the alarm chirps.
✅ Install smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home.
✅ Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
✅ Create and practice a home fire escape plan with your family.
Take a few minutes today to check your smoke alarms. It’s one of the easiest and most important things you can do to help protect your family.
🚨 Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives. Have You Checked Yours? 🚨
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Category
Telephone
Address
72 Airline Road
Columbus, MS
39702