
A Message from Chief Derek Silva
Established in 1854, the Providence Fire Department is proud to be the second oldest continuously operating paid professional fire department in the United States. Its roots, however, stretch further back to 1754, when the department began its firefighting mission as a volunteer force. With a distinguished legacy of excellence and innovation, we are dedicated to providing the highest standards of fire protection, emergency medical services, and community safety.
The Providence Fire Department is one of only two departments in Rhode Island to achieve the prestigious Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Protection Classification score of 1. This distinction reflects the exemplary service we provide and underscores our commitment to excellence in fire protection and emergency response.
Our team of over 450 sworn personnel and 23 civilian staff operate from 12 strategically located fire stations across the city. Together, we deliver a comprehensive array of services, including fire suppression, advanced life support, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, marine operations, and fire prevention through inspections, investigations, and education. In 2023 alone, we responded to more than 47,000 calls for service, exemplifying our unwavering dedication to the residents and visitors of Providence.
In addition to our core services, the Providence Fire Department has adapted to meet the evolving needs of our community by implementing innovative programs. Our Mobile Integrated Health Program and EMS Bicycle Unit are designed to provide targeted care for overdose intervention, prevention, and response to mental health crises. These initiatives showcase our proactive approach to community health and our commitment to providing compassionate, appropriate care in moments of critical need.
As Chief of the Providence Fire Department, I am dedicated to delivering the highest standard of service and protection for both our residents and visitors, all while building strong relationships within the community we proudly serve. The men and women of the Fire Department take the safety of our community with the utmost concern and together, we are actively working to make Providence an even safer and more resilient city for all.
Established in 1854, the Providence Fire Department is proud to be the second oldest continuously operating paid professional fire department in the United States. Its roots, however, stretch further back to 1754, when the department began its firefighting mission as a volunteer force. With a distinguished legacy of excellence and innovation, we are dedicated to providing the highest standards of fire protection, emergency medical services, and community safety.
The Providence Fire Department is one of only two departments in Rhode Island to achieve the prestigious Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Protection Classification score of 1. This distinction reflects the exemplary service we provide and underscores our commitment to excellence in fire protection and emergency response.
Our team of over 450 sworn personnel and 23 civilian staff operate from 12 strategically located fire stations across the city. Together, we deliver a comprehensive array of services, including fire suppression, advanced life support, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, marine operations, and fire prevention through inspections, investigations, and education. In 2023 alone, we responded to more than 47,000 calls for service, exemplifying our unwavering dedication to the residents and visitors of Providence.
In addition to our core services, the Providence Fire Department has adapted to meet the evolving needs of our community by implementing innovative programs. Our Mobile Integrated Health Program and EMS Bicycle Unit are designed to provide targeted care for overdose intervention, prevention, and response to mental health crises. These initiatives showcase our proactive approach to community health and our commitment to providing compassionate, appropriate care in moments of critical need.
As Chief of the Providence Fire Department, I am dedicated to delivering the highest standard of service and protection for both our residents and visitors, all while building strong relationships within the community we proudly serve. The men and women of the Fire Department take the safety of our community with the utmost concern and together, we are actively working to make Providence an even safer and more resilient city for all.
