News

The Christiana Fire Company is proud to announce the implementation of a Career Fire Chief.
Tonight, Chief Kevin Cowperthwait will be sworn in as Christiana’s first Career Fire Chief, marking a historic milestone in the organization’s evolution.

Chief Cowperthwait brings 44 years of fire service experience to this role. He began his career at the Pennsville Fire Company in New Jersey, where he rose through the ranks to Fire Chief. Throughout his career, he has served as Captain, Assistant Fire Chief, and Deputy Fire Chief under Past Chiefs Brian Reeder and Richard Perillo. He also served as a Paramedics with the New Castle County Paramedics. At Christiana, Chief Cowperthwait has been instrumental in the development of predetermined arrival assignments and riding assignments, initiatives that have not only strengthened operations within our department but have also positively influenced fireground operations throughout New Castle County. These efforts have created greater order, reduced confusion, and ultimately enhanced firefighter safety. Chief Cowperthwait is a firm believer in mastering the basics and training relentlessly on those fundamentals. He fosters a supportive and professional firefighting culture—one that allows firefighters to grow, develop, and reach their full potential. Through years of mentorship, he has helped shape many of our officers and chiefs, building the exceptional leadership team we have today. The culture that exists at Christiana—one we proudly cherish and defend—is a direct reflection of his leadership and influence. Chief Cowperthwait is also an instructor at the Fire Department Training Network in Indianapolis IN.

The implementation of a Career Fire Chief reflects the scale and complexity of today’s Christiana Fire Company. The department currently manages 35 full-time employees, 60 part-time employees, and approximately 100+ volunteers, protecting 38 square miles and more than 100,000 residents. In 2025 alone, the Christiana Fire Company responded to 17,398 total calls, including 4,490 fire calls, 12,908 EMS calls, and 98 working structural fires, while operating on an annual budget of approximately $5 million. We are proud to take this step forward and confident that under Chief Cowperthwait’s leadership, the Christiana Fire Company will continue to grow, adapt, and serve our community at the highest level.