In this powerful episode of Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, host Lindsay Darnell welcomes two of the city’s top leaders in public safety: Chief Kyle Weatherly of the Richmond Police Department and Chief Jeff Kinder of the Richmond Fire Department.

Chief Weatherly shares his lifelong commitment to service — from his time in the U.S. Army to his career in law enforcement — and explains how the camaraderie within the department and connections with the community have fueled his dedication. He talks about evidence-based policing, the importance of good old-fashioned boots-on-the-ground police work, and how initiatives like body cameras, crisis intervention training, and school partnerships are shaping a stronger, safer Richmond.

Chief Kinder brings his own unique story, from his early days in professional baseball to finding a true calling in the fire service. He discusses the department’s ongoing focus on training, from rope rescues and hazmat to confined space exercises, while also highlighting prevention and education efforts like Safety Village, where thousands of local children have learned life-saving fire safety skills. He also emphasizes the department’s outreach efforts, including career fairs, Special Olympics events, and collaborative community programs.

Together, the chiefs reveal how closely their departments work when responding to emergencies — from structure fires to hazardous materials incidents — and how joint training, clear communication, and mutual respect are essential to protecting lives and property. They also reflect on the importance of events like National Night Out and the Haunted House at the training center, which bring families face-to-face with first responders in a positive and engaging way.

Both leaders drive home one key message: Richmond’s police officers and firefighters are more united than ever, committed to serving the city 24/7, 365 days a year. They encourage residents to show kindness, care for their neighbors, and support the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep the community safe.

👉 Stay connected with your local first responders:

• Follow the Richmond Police Department on Facebook: facebook.com/RichmondIndianaPD
  
  
• Follow the Richmond Fire Department on Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080203657105
  
  

🚨 Interested in a career in public safety? Richmond is hiring! Visit RichmondIndiana.gov
to explore current opportunities with both the police and fire departments.