Kentucky Fire Department Shares Fire Safety Tips Through Viral TikTok Videos

The Owensboro Fire Department is using humor and short-form video to reach younger audiences with important fire prevention advice.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Owensboro Fire Department in Kentucky has launched a TikTok account to share fire safety tips and recruit new firefighters through humorous, short-form videos. Officials say the goal is to reach younger audiences who may not engage with more traditional public safety messaging. The department's videos, which feature firefighters acting out exaggerated safety scenarios, have quickly gained thousands of views and followers.

Why it matters

Reaching younger demographics with fire prevention education is crucial, as many fire-related injuries and deaths occur in homes. By using the popular TikTok platform and an engaging, comedic approach, the Owensboro Fire Department hopes to boost awareness of important safety practices beyond just their local community.

The details

The idea to launch the TikTok account came from the city's communications staff, who saw short-form video as a way to expand the department's reach. Within days of creating the account, it had over 1,000 followers and thousands of views. The videos feature firefighters acting out exaggerated safety scenarios tied to real risks, like seasonal hazards and household fire dangers. Department leaders say the humor makes the practical information more approachable for viewers in the crowded online space.

  • The Owensboro Fire Department launched its TikTok account in early 2026.

The players

Owensboro Fire Department

A fire department serving the city of Owensboro, Kentucky, that has launched a TikTok account to share fire safety tips and recruit new firefighters through humorous, short-form videos.

Maddie Haynes

The digital marketing coordinator for the Owensboro Fire Department, who said the department's TikTok account has seen huge growth in followers and views.

Shaelie Velez

The city communications manager for Owensboro, who said that using humor gives viewers a reason to pause and pay attention to the department's fire safety messages.

James Howard

The fire chief of the Owensboro Fire Department, who said appearing on new platforms like TikTok helps ensure the department's critical fire prevention advice reaches more people across age groups.

Brian Roberts

A battalion chief with the Owensboro Fire Department, who said the TikTok project has given firefighters a chance to show a different, more lighthearted side of their jobs.

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What they’re saying

“Our growth is huge on there.”

— Maddie Haynes, digital marketing coordinator (FireRescue1)

“On the internet, everyone is yelling. Humor gives viewers a reason to pause and pay attention.”

— Shaelie Velez, city communications manager (FireRescue1)

“We want to make sure we are capturing as much of the demographic as we can.”

— James Howard, fire chief (FireRescue1)

“We are normal people, like everyone else.”

— Brian Roberts, battalion chief (FireRescue1)

What’s next

The Owensboro Fire Department plans to continue creating and sharing humorous TikTok videos to spread its fire safety message and recruit new firefighters.

The takeaway

By embracing short-form video and a comedic approach on TikTok, the Owensboro Fire Department is finding an effective way to engage younger audiences with crucial fire prevention education, demonstrating how public safety organizations can adapt to new digital platforms to reach more people with their important messages.