Fire Suppression

Fire suppression efforts are focused on rapid fire suppression and extinguishment, life safety rescue, and the mitigation of fire related damages.

The priority of the fire suppression effort is rapid response.  Fire losses are significantly lessened when the fire suppression activities are initiated within the early stages of the fire.  Though strategic placement of the fire stations and the coordinated efforts of our fire dispatch system, fire companies are typically “en route” to the fire scene within 90 seconds of the receiving of an alarm.

Three fire engine companies, one tower/ladder truck, and one rescue truck will be involved in the fire suppression response.  Once on scene, fire companies will initiate an aggressive fire attack with a first alarm manpower of 13 firefighters.  Structure fires present the greatest risk to life and property within the City of Milford.  Structure types include residential homes, health care facilities, commercial occupancies, manufacturing plants, and industrial facilities.  Due to the history and age of our City construction types vary greatly.  We have many old brick and mortar buildings as well as many new buildings utilizing engineered light-weight materials.  The large variance of construction types presents challenges for fire suppression; however, the well-trained and well-equipped fire crews are always prepared to accomplish the mission.

The Department also faces fire suppression challenges from wildland fires, motor vehicle fires on City roads and State highways, and a potential for train fire emergencies from the Metro-North rail corridor that crosses the City.  In addition, Milford has one of the largest recreational harbors on Long Island Sound and presents the added hazard of watercraft fire and rescue.