Welcome to HCESD#16 and Klein Fire


HCESD 16 is an Emergency Services District(ESD) - a political subdivision, or local government agency, of the State of Texas - created to provide fire protection and related emergency services within the district and authorized to collect public-approved taxes and fees. The District is governed by a board of five commissioners elected by public vote to serve 4-year terms. Currently, there are more than 300 ESDs in Texas, including 31 in Harris County. The governing statute for an ESD is Chapter 775 of the Texas Health and Safety Code. Click here for more information on ESDs.


Since 1951, the Klein Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) has provided fire suppression, first responder EMS, and related services within the District's 49-square mile service area in norther Harris County. In September 2022, the District assumed direct responsibility for those services and now operates as the Klein Fire Department.


Today, HCESD 16 is an ISO Class 2 community, with a resident population of over 187,000 living in a diversified area of single-family dwellings, schools, high-density apartment complexes and high-rise condominiums, buildings, light industry, and commercial retail centers. The area also includes an acute-care hospital, FAA-controlled airport, and two major highways that cross through the District (SH249 and SH 99). Click here for more information on the ISO Public Protection Classification System.

2025 Tax Rate Information

FY 2026 Proposed Operating Budget

FY 2026 Proposed Operating Budget

Mission


To protect and serve the Klein community by minimizing the loss of life and property from fire, medical, or other emergencies.



Vision


We will make a difference in the Klein community by providing the best possible emergency services.


Values


To provide the highest degree of customer service through our words, acts, and deeds.


Honor · Integrity · Courage · Duty · Sacrifice


Expectations


To meet or exceed the needs and expectations of the Klein community and our response partners.


Every day · Every way · Every one

By Ja'Milla Lomas January 27, 2026
(Klein, TX. January 27, 2026) As of 8:00 a.m., the Harris County Emergency Services District 16, Klein Fire Department (“HCESD 16” or “KFD”) has deactivated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) following improved conditions after Winter Storm Fern . The EOC activation had enhanced coordination, situational awareness, and emergency response capabilities across the Klein community during the storm. During the operational period from Saturday, January 24 through 6:00 a.m. on January 27, Klein Fire responded to 67 incidents, including: • 5 fires • 4 hazardous situations • 27 medical calls • 18 public service calls • 1 rescue • 12 non-emergency calls KFD extends sincere appreciation to community members who stayed off icy roads and followed safety guidance. Their cooperation helped ensure crews could respond quickly and safely to neighbors in distress. The department had previously urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, monitor weather updates, prepare for freezing temperatures, and check on vulnerable individuals – messages that supported overall community safety. “Our priority is the safety of our residents, visitors, and first responders,” Fire Chief Jason Catrambone emphasized during the storm response, noting that the EOC allowed KFD and partner agencies to coordinate resources and decision-making effectively. Throughout the event, the EOC served as a centralized command center enabling real-time collaboration with partners such as the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Harris County Fire Marshal, and Harris County Flood Control District. Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring official sources for preparedness information and future weather updates. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency assistance, visit www.hcesd16.org or follow / kleinfiredept / on social media . ##
By Ja'Milla Lomas January 25, 2026
Klein Fire Department Activates Emergency Operations Center Ahead of Winter Storm Fern (Klein, TX. January 24, 2026) In preparation for the anticipated impacts of Winter Storm Fern, Harris County Emergency Services District 16, Klein Fire Department (“HCESD 16” or “KFD”) has activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to enhance coordination, situational awareness, and response efforts across the Klein community. The activation of the EOC allows Klein Fire Department leadership and partner agencies to closely monitor weather conditions, assess potential risks, and ensure resources are positioned to respond efficiently to any emergencies related to the storm. Forecasts indicate Winter Storm Ferm may bring hazardous conditions, including freezing temperatures, icy roads, and power disruptions. “Our priority is the safety of our residents, visitors, and first responders,” said Jason Catrambone, Fire Chief of the Klein Fire Department. “By opening the Emergency Operations Center ahead of the storm, we are proactively coordinating the personnel, equipment, and communications to ensure we can respond quickly should conditions deteriorate.” The KFD Emergency Operations Center serves as our centralized command location where we collaborate in real time with local partners like Texas Division of Emergency Management, Harris County Fire Marshal, and Harris County Flood Control District. This coordinated approach improves emergency response, strengthens communication, and supports rapid decision-making during severe weather events. The Klein Fire Department urges residents to take precautions as Winter Storm Fern approaches: • Avoid unnecessary travel during hazardous conditions • Monitor local weather updates and emergency notifications • Prepare homes for freezing temperatures and power outages • Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members Residents are encouraged to follow official and reliable sources for the latest weather updates and safety information throughout the icy weather. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. For non-emergency assistance or preparedness information, residents may visit www.hcesd16.org or follow /kleinfiredept/ on social media. ## About Harris County Emergency Services District No. 16, Klein Fire Department Since 1951, the Klein Volunteer Fire Department (KVFD) has provided fire suppression, first responder EMS, and related services within the Klein community’s 49-square mile service area in northern Harris County. In September 2022, Harris County Emergency Services District 16 (“HCESD 16” or the “District”) assumed direct responsibility for those services and now operates as the Klein Fire Department (“KFD”), providing fire and rescue services for the citizens who reside in and pass through HCESD 16. HCESD 16 is a government entity and a political subdivision of the State of Texas, organized as provided by State Law to protect life and health. The five-member District Board of Commissioners are elected by the voters of the ESD 16 service area and is subject to various state laws, rules, and regulations.
December 1, 2025
EF-2 Thanksgiving Tornado
November 25, 2025
Klein Fire Department Responds to Unconfirmed Tornado
September 29, 2025
Klein Fire Department and Mutual Aid Respond to Small Aircraft Crash
June 2, 2025
Klein Fire Department Hosts Badge Pinning Ceremony
Picture of an elections box with a ballot sticking out of the top
May 13, 2025
Harris County ESD 16 Announces May 3, 2025 Election Results
March 21, 2025
KLEIN FIRE DEPT. NOW HIRING FULL TIME POSITIONS
January 10, 2025
Harris County Emergency Services District RFP for Turnkkey Radio Communications Site
November 1, 2024
Harris County Fire Marshal's Office Raises Awareness of Battery Safety!
Show More

Contact Us