Trenton Fire and Emergency Services

Trenton Fire and Emergency Services

Trenton Fire and Emergency Services (TFD) is the primary agency responsible for fire protection, emergency medical first response, and rescue operations within the City of Trenton. With a rich history dating back to the formation of the Union Fire Company in 1747, it is one of the oldest established fire departments in the United States. Today, the department operates as a fully paid professional force, delivering comprehensive all-hazards response services. The TFD protects a high-density urban environment that includes residential neighborhoods, high-rise government buildings, and industrial complexes.

Operations and Specialized Units

Beyond fighting fires, the department is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies through specialized teams:

• Emergency Medical Services: Firefighters are trained as first responders to provide immediate life-saving care at medical emergencies before ambulances arrive.
• Hazardous Materials (HazMat): A dedicated team responds to chemical spills, biological threats, and other hazardous substance releases.
• Technical Rescue: Specialized units are trained in complex extrications, including confined space rescue, trench collapse recovery, and high-angle rope rescue.
• Marine Unit: The department maintains water rescue capabilities to respond to emergencies on the Delaware River and local waterways.

Fire Prevention and Administration

The Fire Prevention Bureau enforces the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code, conducting regular inspections of businesses and multi-family dwellings to ensure public safety. This division also investigates the causes of fires and manages public education programs, such as free smoke alarm installations for residents. The Fire Headquarters at 244 Perry Street also houses the Meredith Havens Fire Museum, which preserves the department’s centuries-old history through a collection of antique apparatus and artifacts.