Kristin Tinsley

Kristin Tinsley joined the Seattle Fire Department in 2017 as the Sr. Communications Manager/Public Information Officer. As the Sr. Communications Manager, she leads the department’s public information team which is responsible for sharing critical and timely information to the public and media. She handles policy communications for the department and develops communication plans for launching external-facing programs and initiatives.  

When on-scene of significant incidents, Kristin serves as a public information officer for the department and handles media relations and emergency alert notifications. She has responded to many major incidents, including the Oso 530 Landslide, multiple-alarm fires, major rescue extrications, serious hazardous materials spills, and more.  

Kristin holds a BA in Communications from Western Washington University. Prior to joining the Seattle Fire Department, she worked in the field of public outreach and communications for the City of Seattle Office of Emergency Management, Pierce County Public Works and Pierce County Department of Emergency Management. Kristin has worked in government for 11 years, and is passionate about working for first responder agencies to help them positively impact the community they serve through digital communications, media relations, in-person engagement and sharing of critical messaging.