The Syracuse Fire Department proudly protects 145,000 people living in an area of 25 square miles. We operate out of 12 stations that protect a primarily residential area plus the Hancock International Airport. Our department is a public department whose members are on a paid status.

   Established as a paid department in 1877 (consisting of four steamers, one hook & ladder, and one chemical wagon), the Syracuse Fire Department now operates 18 fire companies out of 12 fire stations.

   A massive modernization plan in the 70's & 80's has made it possible to locate those stations strategically around the city. The Syracuse Fire Department provides fire suppression & rescue, EMS, HAZ-MAT response, High-angle rescue, Confined Space Rescue, Airport Rescue Crash, full fire prevention, inspection, and education services to the citizens of Syracuse and its visitors.

   Current staffing is 369 uniformed members, operating 10 Engines, 6 Trucks, a three-piece Rescue Company, and a four-piece Airport Rescue Crash Company. The Syracuse Fire Department answered over 19,000 alarms in 2007 (including over 9,000 EMS calls), and fought over 100 major fires. Our average response time to anywhere in the City of Syracuse is under four minutes. The Syracuse Fire Department holds an ISO Class 1 rating - the only city in New York State to do so, and one of 55 cities nationwide.