The Salem Fire Department provides a wide range of emergency services to the City of Salem and the Salem Suburban Fire District. Operating from 11 locations, the department runs:

• Eleven advanced life support fire engines
• Two aerial ladder trucks

These resources are available 24 hours a day. Additionally, the department maintains two backup ambulances to assist with patient transport during times of high call volume.

Advanced Life Support and Emergency Medical Services

The Salem Fire Department employs highly trained staff who provide advanced life support. Firefighters ensure continuity of care from initial contact through patient transport to the hospital.

Divisions of the Salem Fire Department

The Salem Fire Department is organized into several divisions to support its operations and ensure high-quality service.

Emergency Operations Division

The Emergency Operations Division is responsible for all personnel and equipment that respond to 9-1-1 calls. The department handles over 20,000 calls annually, with most being for medical emergencies. Crews also respond to:

• Fires
• Auto accidents
• Downed power lines
• Fire alarms
• Other public service calls

Specialized Services

The Emergency Operations Division also provides specialized services, including:

• Swift water rescue
• Trench, rope, and high-angle rescue
• Hazardous materials response
• Salem Police SWAT medics

Community Risk Reduction Division

This division focuses on reducing risks in the community through prevention, education and preparedness. Its primary responsibilities include:

• Inspecting commercial and apartment buildings for fire safety compliance
• Investigating fire incidents to determine their origin and cause
• Managing emergency preparedness and disaster planning for the City
• Reviewing new construction plans to ensure compliance with fire safety codes
• Educating the public on fire safety and emergency preparedness

Training and Emergency Medical Services Division

This division ensures that firefighters and paramedics are well-trained and prepared for any emergency. It also oversees the department’s Emergency Medical Services.

Key Responsibilities

• Recruiting, hiring and promotional testing for firefighters
• Training new recruits through the Firefighter Training Academy
• Providing ongoing training and certification for firefighters and paramedics
• Managing medical supplies and tracking inventory
• Overseeing the Marion and Polk County Ambulance Service Area
• Managing private ambulance contracts

Commitment to Excellence

The Salem Fire Department continually reassesses its deployment, operational strategies and support functions to ensure it provides the best possible service to the community.