Welcome to the City of Compton Fire Department

Fire Chief

R.D. Simpson

Professional Biography

Chief Ronerick Simpson is an accomplished Fire Chief with over 33 years of leadership experience in fire service and public safety. Currently serving the City of Compton, Chief Simpson leads a team of 77 firefighters, ensuring high standards in emergency response, training, and operational effectiveness.

Previously, Chief Simpson served as Fire Chief in Jackson, Mississippi, managing more than 400 personnel and a $22 million budget while overseeing emergency operations, disaster preparedness, and community safety initiatives. Additional leadership roles include Deputy Chief of Operations and Chief of Training, where Chief Simpson advanced departmental performance, training, and strategic planning.

Chief Simpson holds master’s degrees in Human Resources Management and Occupational Safety and Health from Columbia Southern University, and a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Jackson State University. A former Sergeant in the Mississippi Air National Guard, Chief Simpson is recognized for strong leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to public service.

Deputy Fire Chief

Reginald Donald

Performance

The Compton Fire Department ranks among the five busiest departments in California, responding to an average of 10,000 emergency calls per year. Approximately 75% of the calls are for Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

The department’s average response time is 4 minutes and 30 seconds. This response is faster than the national average, as well as response times of nearby cities served by the Los Angeles County Fire Department.