MISSION

The mission of the Scranton Fire Department is to provide efficient and effective fire protection and emergency services to the citizens of the City of Scranton.

The department is dedicated to this mission, and has initiated fire prevention programs that are conducted throughout the community and local schools, through the use of a fire safe house (trailer). Since 1992, new hire suppression fire fighters
are required to attend Harrisburg Area Community College for a 7 week course. Employment in the department is contingent
on completing this course and attaining certification from HACC. The department will continue with public education and
services as the needs arise.

Currently we are dedicated to addressing public safety issues that have arisen from the
September 11, 2001 tragedy.

HISTORY

The fire department has been serving Scranton since 1866, the year Scranton first became a city. This first service consisted of
an organized volunteer department (organizations) throughout the city and remained that way until 1901. Local fire historian Mark Boock has documented this department history from beginning to present, and is a vital resource for department history.

In 1901, the first paid fire fighters were authorized by city government. The city maintained a combination paid/volunteer system
from 1901 to 1907, the year a full paid department was established. The department remains a full-time 24/7 department at this time, with a complement of 150 professional fire fighters protecting the City of Scranton.

With these uncertain times and the unforeseeable future, we here at the Scranton Fire Department remain committed to provide
the best and most efficient public service and public safety protection available to the citizens of Scranton.

STATIONS & DEPARTMENT STRUCTURE

The City of Scranton operates 8 fire stations located within the 26 sq. miles of the city boundaries.
During a normal tour, there are 10 apparatus and 1 command vehicle in service.

FIRE INVESTIGATIONS

Fire investigation and safety is conducted through our fire inspection bureau. They are responsible for housing inspections
and code violation. If you have information regarding any suspicious act, they can be contacted at (570)-348-4164.

EMPLOYMENT

The City of Scranton utilizes a competitive Civil Service testing system for fire department hiring. Prospective candidates are selected from the established civil service list. The personnel department makes the contacts and arrangements for physical exams, background checks, etc. and issues conditional employment contingent upon the candidates successful completion
of the certification as per contract.

New hires must attend and complete HACC Academy for fire service. Academy Certification and Fire Fighter 1 Certification
must be attained during the training process. Failure to attain either during this time of training will result in dismissal of the conditional employee.