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Phoenix Fire Department
Phoenix Fire Department
Phoenix Fire Department
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The Phoenix Fire Department provides fire protection and emergency medical services for the city of Phoenix, Arizona. The department responded to 242,067 calls during 2024, with 82% being for emergency medical services.[2] The Phoenix Fire Department currently protects 1.5 million residents spread across an area of 520 square miles (1,300 km2).[2] It is dispatched by the Phoenix Fire Department Regional Dispatch Center and is one of 26 jurisdictions that participates in the Automatic Aid system.

Key Information

History

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The Phoenix Fire Department was established as a volunteer fire department on August 17, 1886, with the formation of Engine 1.[3] In 1922 the department transitioned from volunteers to career members. From 1924 to present day, the department created the A, B, and C shifts, which started and ended every third day at 8:00 AM.[3]

On December 9, 1929, the Phoenix Fire Department suffered its first fatality in the line of duty. While responding to a call, Squad 1 and Engine 2 crashed into each other at 14th and Van Buren streets. Captain Jack Sullivan of Squad 1 was killed instantly.[4]

In 1936 the Phoenix Fire Department joined the International Association of Firefighters and formed the union Local 493. The surrounding fire departments, Tempe, Glendale, Chandler, Surprise, and Peoria, are also part of Local 493.[5]

On June 5, 2021 the Phoenix Fire Department responded to a fire at a recycling facility near 35th Avenue and Lincoln Street. The 6-alarm fire drew more than 200 firefighters to scene from 10 different agencies from across Arizona.[6]

Stations and apparatus

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The Phoenix Fire Department is one of the busiest fire departments in the United States. Phoenix currently has 60 fire stations and 9 battalions. Two of the stations are located in the Town of Paradise Valley, who contracts with Phoenix for fire protection.[7] The Phoenix Fire Department has 66 engine companies, 15 ladder companies, and 33 rescue companies (ambulances). Some fire stations have two engine companies. In February 2020, the fire department opened the 9th Battalion in the Central District. Each battalion is directed by one Battalion Chief per shift. Each district is administered by a Deputy Chief.

The most recent station, #62, opened in February 2025.[8] Future stations include Station 74, which broke ground in October 2024[9] and Station 51 planned in the far north part of Phoenix.[10]

FEMA Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Team Arizona Task Force

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The Phoenix-based FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Team Arizona Task Force 1 (or AZ-TF1) is a FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Task Force sponsored by the Phoenix Fire Department.[11]

AZ-TF1 is one of 28 such FEMA US&R Rescue Teams with numerous disaster response capabilities such as search and rescue, hazardous material detection and decontamination, structural collapse rescue, technical search, emergency triage and medicine, live find and human remains detection canines, and disaster recovery.[12] The Federal Emergency Management Agency created the geographically positioned teams in an effort to provide support for large-scale disasters in both the United States and the potential international response abroad. In recent years the FEMA US&R system has developed the ability for a modular response in the event a specific capability is needed during a disaster response. An example of this would be a swift-water rescue team needed to augment the current search and rescue assets already deployed. FEMA provides the financial, technical and training support for all 28 teams as well as manage an internal auditing system to verify and validate each team's ability to provide a standardized response of both personnel and equipment. AZ-TF1 is one of six task forces in the nation to be certified with training for WMD (Weapons of Mass Destruction) related incidents. AZ-TF1 is also the only task force in the US to have armed police officers respond with them. This has however led to controversy and suspension of service during 2005 Hurricane Katrina. AZ-TF1 had armed officers deployed alongside firefighters to protect them against armed looters. This in turn led to a break in FEMA's rules about firearms. AZ-TF1 was sent home with the then-Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon saying it is outrageous.[13]

Deployments

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Noteworthy AZ-TF1 deployments include:[14]

Line of Duty Deaths

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Since its inception, the Phoenix Fire Department has had 11 firefighters die in the line of duty.[17]

Name of Firefighter Title Last Alarm Apparatus Placement Cause of Death
John D. "Jack" Sullivan Captain December 9, 1929 Squad 1 Struck by another truck en route to a commercial structure fire.
Ambrose Shea Firefighter December 10, 1929 Squad 1 Struck by another truck en route to a commercial structure fire.
Randolf J. "Randy" Potts Firefighter August 6, 1974 Engine 11-B Crushed by a falling wall at a commercial structure fire.
Walter D. Kelson Engineer March 12, 1977 Engine 23-A Drowned trying to save drowning children at Lake Pleasant. The children survived.
Chauncey E. Ray Jr. Firefighter March 12, 1977 Engine 23-B Drowned trying to save drowning children at Lake Pleasant. The children survived.
Dale R. Lockett Firefighter August 5, 1979 Engine 25-A Fell through a roof during a fire.
Ricky S. Pearce Engineer-HazMat Technician November 15, 1984 Ladder 4-B Spontaneous explosion while working in a worker-trapped confined space rescue storage tank.
Timothy J. Hale Engineer February 12, 1994 Engine 15-A Crushed by a truck while unloading a gurney from the back of the ambulance.
Bret R. Tarver Firefighter Paramedic March 14, 2001 Engine 14-C Became disoriented and ran out of air while interior of a 5-alarm supermarket fire.
Mark S. Carter Engineer Paramedic June 4, 2007 Engine 37-A Found in cardiac arrest inside of a fire truck by a civilian.
Bradley C. Harper Firefighter May 19, 2013 Rescue 21-B Pinned between his ambulance and a fire truck during a mulch fire.

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Phoenix Fire Department

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from Grokipedia
The Phoenix Fire Department (PFD) is the municipal fire department of Phoenix, Arizona, responsible for providing fire protection, , and capabilities to over 1.6 million residents across approximately 518 square miles. Established as a on August 17, 1886, with the formation of Phoenix Engine Company #1, the department transitioned to a fully paid professional organization by 1922, marking the end of the horse-drawn era and the adoption of motorized equipment starting in 1914. As one of the busiest fire departments in the United States, the PFD operates 60 fire stations staffed by over 1,600 uniformed firefighters, responding to approximately 242,000 emergency incidents annually (as of 2024), the majority of which are medical calls handled by providing . The department sponsors and manages (), which it joined as part of the federal network in the early 1990s, enabling specialized responses to disasters beyond local boundaries. It also participates in automatic aid agreements through the Phoenix Fire Department Regional Dispatch Center, facilitating seamless cooperation with neighboring agencies by erasing jurisdictional boundaries for emergency responses. Notable historical milestones include the establishment of the Fire Prevention Bureau in 1935 to enhance and the introduction of in the , with the first rescue unit in 1973 and in 1974. Phoenix firefighters formed Local 493 of the on November 6, 1936, solidifying their professional representation. Today, the PFD continues to evolve as an innovative, data-driven leader in the , with specialized teams for hazardous materials, , and at .

History

Founding and Early Years

The Phoenix Fire Department was established on August 17, 1886, as a with the formation of Phoenix Engine Company No. 1, which began operations with 25 charter members recruited from local residents. To equip the new company, the city issued a special bond that raised $10,000, enabling the purchase of a Nott steam fire engine and improvements to the , which arrived in early 1887. These initial resources marked the department's humble beginnings in a rapidly expanding , where was essential amid wooden structures and limited infrastructure. In its early years, the department faced significant challenges as Phoenix grew from a small settlement to a burgeoning urban center, straining the and rudimentary equipment available for . Volunteers, drawn primarily from the local community without formal training or compensation, relied on manual labor and basic tools before the 's arrival. By 1908, these pressures led to the expansion to six , each with 25 members, supplemented by a small number of paid drivers and a house captain to address the increasing demands. The department's initial response capabilities were confined to basic , lacking formal or that would develop later. This laid the foundation for in Phoenix but highlighted the limitations of an in meeting the needs of a growing population, paving the way for its eventual transition to a professional department in 1922.

Transition to Professional Department

The Phoenix Fire Department, originally established as a volunteer force in 1886, underwent a significant transformation in the early 1920s as the city of Phoenix grew rapidly, necessitating a more reliable and professional firefighting service. By 1922, the department had completed its shift to a fully paid, professional organization, marking the hiring of career firefighters to replace the volunteer system. This transition was driven by the adoption of motorized equipment and the increasing demands of urban expansion, allowing for consistent staffing and improved response capabilities. In 1924, as part of ongoing operational enhancements, the department introduced a two-shift system featuring A and B shifts, which alternated 24-hour duty periods to better manage personnel fatigue and coverage. This scheduling innovation helped standardize operations during the department's early professional years, ensuring round-the-clock availability of trained firefighters. The period's challenges were underscored by the department's first on December 9, 1929, when Captain J.D. "Jack" Sullivan, aged 35 and serving with Squad 1, was fatally injured in an apparatus accident while responding to a warehouse fire at the Supermade Aluminum Company. Sullivan, who had served the department for 16 years, dismounted his open-cab fire truck after a collision with Engine 2 at and was pinned between the vehicle and a pole, leading to his death; firefighter Ambrose Shea also perished in the incident.

Key Developments and Milestones

In 1936, the Phoenix Fire Department marked a significant advancement in labor organization by joining the International Association of Firefighters on November 6, forming Local 493, which provided formal representation and advocacy for its members. This union initially focused on Phoenix firefighters but has since expanded to represent nearly 3,000 members across multiple departments, including those in Chandler, Tempe, Peoria, Glendale, and Surprise, enhancing collective bargaining and support for regional fire service professionals. The department continued to evolve through mid-century expansions, growing to 12 fire stations by the 1950s to accommodate the city's rapid population increase and adding a third shift (C Shift) in 1947 for improved operational coverage. Further milestones included the establishment of the Training Academy in 1968 for enhanced professional development and integration into the Federal Urban Search and Rescue network in 1991, bolstering capabilities for large-scale disaster response. In recent years, the Phoenix Fire Department has pursued infrastructure expansions to address growing demands across its 520-square-mile jurisdiction. The groundbreaking for Fire Station 74 occurred on October 18, 2024, at the northwest corner of 19th Avenue and Chandler Boulevard in Ahwatukee, marking the fourth station in that area and aimed at improving response times in underserved regions. Similarly, Fire Station 62 became operational in late November 2024, with its grand opening open house held on January 25, 2025, at 9300 W. Lower Buckeye Road, housing Engine 62 and Rescue 62 to enhance emergency services in the West Valley. These developments reflect ongoing commitments to modernization and public safety amid the department's high call volume.

Organization and Administration

Structure and Staffing

The Phoenix Fire Department employs 2,332 career personnel as of July 1, 2025, including 1,868 sworn/uniformed members and 464 civilian staff members. These employees are organized into a hierarchical structure that supports efficient operations across the department's service area. The uniformed personnel operate on a three-shift system (A, B, and C), with over 400 firefighters assigned to each shift, ensuring continuous coverage. The department is divided into 9 battalions, each corresponding to a geographical area, with leadership provided by three Battalion Chiefs—one per shift—who oversee daily operations and incident response within their battalion. These Battalion Chiefs report to Deputy Chiefs serving as Shift Commanders, with the city structured into North and South districts for administrative oversight, enabling coordinated management of resources and personnel. This battalion-based hierarchy facilitates rapid deployment and accountability during emergencies. Dispatch operations are handled through the Phoenix Fire Department Regional Dispatch Center, which operates 24 hours a day and provides fire and emergency medical dispatching services not only for Phoenix but also as part of an Automatic Aid system involving approximately 26 surrounding jurisdictions. This collaborative dispatch framework enhances response times and resource sharing across the region. The department's service area spans over 519 square miles and serves more than 1.4 million residents, including contract operations for two fire stations in the Town of Paradise Valley.

Leadership

The Fire Chief of the Phoenix Fire Department serves as the top executive officer, responsible for directing and managing all firefighting, fire prevention, and fire service activities across the city. This role encompasses overseeing daily operations, strategic planning, resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with safety standards and emergency response protocols. The chief also plays a key role in community relations, including public education initiatives and coordination with other city agencies to enhance overall public safety. Mike Duran III has been the Fire Chief since his appointment on February 22, 2022, succeeding Kara Kalkbrenner upon her retirement after serving in the role since 2017. A native of Phoenix, Duran joined the Phoenix Fire Department in 1994 as a firefighter and progressed through the ranks over his 27-year career, including assignments in operations, training, and executive leadership prior to his promotion. This recent transition marked Duran as the 31st Fire Chief in the department's history, emphasizing continuity in leadership amid growing operational demands. Under Chief Duran's leadership, key initiatives have focused on enhancing community programs and firefighter safety, including the expansion of a nonviolent 911 call diversion program to reduce unnecessary responses by police or fire personnel. He has also prioritized health and wellness programs for department members, promoting innovation and sustainability in operations to address post-2020 challenges such as increased emergency call volumes and resource optimization. These efforts underscore Duran's commitment to proactive community engagement and internal departmental improvements.

Budget and Funding

The Phoenix Fire Department's operating budget for fiscal year 2024-25 totals $561,651,000, reflecting a 0.9% increase or $4,831,000 more than the previous year's estimated expenditures. This budget is primarily allocated to personnel services at $501,256,000, accounting for 89.2% of the total and covering salaries, benefits, and related costs for approximately 2,018 authorized positions. Other major categories include contractual services at $34,014,000 (6.1%), commodities for equipment and supplies at $24,128,000 (4.3%), and training services at $6,946,351 (1.2%), with capital outlay for equipment at $3,000,000 (0.5%). Additionally, the department's capital improvement program adds $76,130,417 for projects such as fire stations and apparatus replacements. Funding for the Phoenix Fire Department derives mainly from city general funds, which provide $479,934,000 or 85.5% of the operating budget through local taxes and revenues. Supplementary sources include special revenue funds from excise taxes, such as the Neighborhood Protection - Fire Fund ($14,487,000 from 0.1% sales tax) and Public Safety Expansion - Fire Fund ($23,969,000 from 0.2% sales tax), along with grants totaling $16,646,000 from federal and state programs. Contracts with neighboring jurisdictions, exemplified by the intergovernmental agreement with the Town of Paradise Valley for fire suppression services, contribute additional revenue through service fees, supporting mutual aid and operational expansions. Capital funding incorporates bonds ($29,930,242 from 2023 General Obligation Bonds) and impact fees ($7,620,000). Historically, the department's budget has grown substantially since its transition to a fully professional force in 1922, evolving from modest volunteer-era allocations—such as the initial $10,000 bond issue in 1886 for equipment and water improvements—to the current scale driven by city investments in staffing, infrastructure, and services. This expansion aligns with milestones like the addition of shifts in the 1940s and EMS integration in the 1970s, reflecting increased municipal funding amid population growth. As of 2024-25, challenges included inflation pressures and budget shortfalls in the broader city finances, prompting calls from firefighters for enhanced funding to maintain response capabilities, alongside allocations for expansions like new stations.

Operations and Services

Fire Suppression and Response

The Phoenix Fire Department (PFD) is responsible for suppressing a range of fire incidents within its jurisdiction, including structure fires, wildland fires, and hazardous materials (hazmat) events, utilizing standardized operating procedures to ensure coordinated and effective responses. For structure fires, crews deploy engine companies to conduct initial attacks, ventilation, and overhaul operations, often escalating to multiple alarms for larger incidents, while wildland fire responses involve brush trucks and coordination with state agencies for containment in desert terrains. Hazmat incidents, such as tire or chemical fires, are treated with specialized protocols that prioritize isolation, evacuation, and mitigation to prevent environmental spread, recommending defensive tactics for major events. A notable example of PFD's large-scale fire suppression efforts occurred on June 5, 2021, when a six-alarm fire erupted at a recycling yard near 35th Avenue and Lincoln Street (also referenced near Buckeye Road in some reports), drawing over 200 firefighters from the PFD and nine other agencies for a multi-day battle against burning scrap metal and vehicles that produced massive smoke plumes. This incident, the largest in PFD history, highlighted inter-agency mutual aid and led to post-event reviews for improved tactics. In 2024, PFD handled 233,799 calls for service, with non-EMS calls—primarily fire-related—comprising approximately 18% or roughly 42,084 incidents, reflecting the department's focus on fire suppression amid high overall volume. Response times for fire apparatus, such as engines and ladders, average around 8 minutes and 30 seconds citywide as of 2024, with the 90th percentile for critical responses measured in seconds to ensure timely arrivals, though variations occur by district due to urban sprawl. PFD's training programs emphasize fire suppression tactics tailored to Phoenix's unique urban and desert environments, including recruit academies that cover essential skills like hose deployment and search-and-rescue in high-heat conditions, as well as ongoing wildland-urban interface (WUI) sessions to prepare for fires blending city structures with arid landscapes. These programs incorporate hands-on simulations for desert-specific challenges, such as rapid fire spread in dry vegetation, and integrate equipment enhancements for WUI responses to bolster crew readiness. In multi-response calls, fire suppression efforts may integrate briefly with EMS for scene safety, but protocols prioritize fire control.

Emergency Medical Services

The Phoenix Fire Department provides advanced life support (ALS) emergency medical services (EMS) as a core component of its operations, integrating paramedic-level care into its fire response system across the city. Approximately 300 firefighters are trained as Certified Emergency Paramedics (CEPs), enabling the delivery of ALS on fire engines, ladder trucks, and dedicated rescue units, which ensures rapid intervention for medical emergencies in a service area covering over 519 square miles. EMS calls constitute the majority of the department's responses, reflecting Phoenix's high demand for medical services amid a population exceeding 1.5 million. In 2022, the department handled 405,290 total calls, with more than 80% related to EMS, underscoring the strain on resources and the need for efficient protocols in a busy urban environment. The department operates 32 rescue companies, functioning as ambulances staffed by at least two personnel certified as EMTs or paramedics, which provide transport for critical cases such as trauma, cardiac arrests, and severe accidents. These units follow strict protocols, including initial dispatches for life-threatening incidents and coordination with private ambulance providers to prioritize faster responses or handle non-emergency transports, while adhering to a Certificate of Need that limits out-of-city services unless exceptional circumstances apply. During high-demand periods, status levels (2 or 3) are declared to manage shortages and expedite returns to service, ensuring sustained coverage for Phoenix's elevated call volume. In addition to transport services, the department supports non-transport ALS through first-responder capabilities on engine and ladder companies equipped with advanced medical supplies, allowing immediate stabilization before ambulance arrival. This integrated approach overlaps briefly with fire suppression efforts, where firefighter-paramedics initiate ALS care at scenes involving both fire and medical needs. The EMS division maintains partnerships with base hospitals and a medical director to oversee training, quality improvement, and protocol adherence, including collaborations via district representatives for continuous education and certification programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. These efforts ensure high standards, with recent paramedic certification exam pass rates exceeding 85% on first attempts. Community health initiatives form a key part of the department's EMS outreach, focusing on prevention and public education to reduce emergency calls. Programs such as Baby Shots for childhood vaccinations and the Adult Flu program provide accessible health services, coordinated by dedicated EMS prevention staff, enhancing overall community resilience.

Specialized Units

The Phoenix Fire Department operates several specialized units designed to address hazardous or technical emergencies beyond standard fire suppression and medical responses. These include Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) units, which number three and are equipped to manage chemical spills, releases of toxic substances, and other dangerous material incidents that pose risks to public safety and the environment. These units respond to potential contamination events, containing hazards and mitigating impacts in coordination with other agencies. Additionally, the department deploys five airport crash tenders, specialized vehicles stationed primarily at Sky Harbor International Airport, to handle aircraft incidents, including crashes, fires, and rescues involving aviation fuel or structural collapses on runways. These tenders carry foam agents and high-capacity water systems tailored for rapid intervention in airport environments. Complementing these are 15 wildland fire engines, which support responses to brush and interface fires common in the region's arid landscapes, providing off-road mobility and water delivery for initial attack on vegetation fires. These engines are crucial for containing wildfires before they threaten urban areas. The department also maintains three technical rescue squads focused on complex operations such as high-angle rescues from buildings or cliffs and confined space entries in industrial or underground settings. These squads, comprising highly trained firefighters, utilize rigging systems, atmospheric monitoring equipment, and extraction tools to safely retrieve victims from hazardous environments. Personnel in these specialized units undergo rigorous training and certification, including Hazardous Materials Technician and Technical Rescue Technician credentials compliant with NFPA standards, as well as hands-on drills for ARFF and wildland operations under FAA and OSHA guidelines. Training emphasizes Phoenix-specific risks, such as monsoon-induced flash floods, with regular swift water rescue exercises using specialized gear to simulate rescues in fast-moving urban waterways. This preparation ensures readiness for seasonal hazards like flooding in arroyos and streets.

Stations and Apparatus

Fire Stations

The Phoenix Fire Department operates 60 fire stations across the city, providing comprehensive coverage for its expansive 520-square-mile jurisdiction. These stations are organized into 9 battalions to ensure efficient geographic distribution and rapid response times, adapting to Phoenix's ongoing urban growth through strategic expansions in high-demand areas. Two of these stations, located in Paradise Valley, operate under a contract with the Phoenix Fire Department to serve that jurisdiction, including Fire Station 91 at 8444 N. Tatum Boulevard and another nearby facility. Several stations feature dual-engine housing configurations, such as expanded bays designed to accommodate two paramedic engines alongside other apparatus for enhanced operational capacity. Recent additions include Fire Station 62, which held its grand opening on January 25, 2025, at 9348 W. Lower Buckeye Road in the West Valley to reduce response times in growing neighborhoods. Planned expansions encompass Station 74, with groundbreaking on October 18, 2024, at the northwest corner of 19th Avenue and Chandler Boulevard in Ahwatukee, marking the fourth station in that area. Additionally, Station 51 is planned at North 51st Avenue and to address coverage gaps in the North Gateway district. These developments reflect the department's commitment to scaling infrastructure amid population increases and urban expansion.

Apparatus and Equipment

The Phoenix Fire Department maintains a comprehensive fleet of apparatus to support its operations across the city, including 66 engine companies, 15 , 2 , 38 , 38 , 19 , and 3 as of December 2024. The department also operates 1 unit as part of FEMA Arizona Task Force 1 (AZ-TF1). This fleet composition enables rapid response to a wide range of emergencies, with engines and ladder trucks forming the core for , while specialized units address HAZMAT incidents, , airport operations at , and in peripheral areas. Fleet maintenance is handled primarily by the City's Public Works Department Equipment Management Division in coordination with the PFD's Fleet Management Division and Apparatus Shop, which focuses on preventative maintenance schedules such as bi-annual inspections (every 6 months or 3,000 miles) and annual certifications for specialized equipment like aerial devices. Procurement processes involve annual replacement planning submitted by February, budget review in spring, and purchases coordinated through the City Finance Department's Purchasing Division, with a focus on standardization to reduce costs and improve efficiency; for example, upgrades included the addition of eight E-ONE aerial platforms (five HP 95 platforms and three HR 100 ladder trucks) in 2022-2023 and 14 Pierce Quantum pumpers ordered in 2015 as part of a multi-year fleet refresh funded through the department's budget. All apparatus and equipment adhere to national standards set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), including compliance with NFPA 1500 for overall fire department occupational safety and health, and NFPA 1710 for organization and deployment of fire suppression operations, ensuring equipment reliability, crew safety, and effective response capabilities.

Urban Search and Rescue

AZ-TF1 Overview

Task Force 1 (AZ-TF1) is a task force sponsored and managed by the Phoenix Fire Department, formed in 1991 to enhance national disaster response capabilities. As one of 28 national USAR task forces, AZ-TF1 maintains a constant state of readiness to deploy up to 70 specialized members for large-scale incidents, drawing personnel primarily from the Phoenix Fire Department while incorporating experts from other Arizona agencies. The task force's core capabilities encompass a wide range of , including locating and extracting victims from collapsed structures, conducting void searches in rubble, and performing in confined or hazardous environments. It is also equipped for hazardous materials (HAZMAT) response, providing identification, mitigation, and decontamination services during . Additionally, AZ-TF1 offers advanced on-site, with medical specialists capable of treating injuries under austere conditions, and is certified for incidents, enabling response to terrorism-related or involving nuclear, explosive, or other high-threat scenarios—one of only six such nationwide. A distinctive feature of AZ-TF1 is the inclusion of armed police officers among its roster, who are deputized as during deployments to provide security in high-risk environments; this integration aims to protect team members and operations but sparked controversy in 2005 when temporarily suspended the task force during relief efforts for violating federal rules against carrying firearms. AZ-TF1 is integrated with the Phoenix Fire Department's single dedicated unit within its Special Operations Section, allowing seamless mobilization of local resources for both regional and national activations. Training protocols emphasize continuous preparedness through regular drills, equipment maintenance, and certifications in specialized skills like and handling, ensuring the team can self-sustain for the initial 72 hours in the field, with capability for deployments up to 14 days.

Deployments and Notable Missions

The Arizona Task Force 1 (AZ-TF1), sponsored by the Phoenix Fire Department, has participated in numerous national disaster responses since its inception, with deployment protocols significantly evolving following the controversies surrounding . The Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 (PKEMRA) introduced key reforms to FEMA's structure, including enhanced legal authorities for urban search and rescue (USAR) operations, improved coordination between federal, state, and local entities, and measures to address delays in task force activations experienced during Katrina, such as bureaucratic hurdles and logistical inefficiencies that resulted in rescuers spending more time traveling than performing rescues. These changes emphasized faster mobilization, better equipment prioritization, and integration of incident management assistance teams (IMATs) to streamline on-site command, leading to more effective USAR responses in subsequent hurricanes. A notable early deployment under the reformed protocols occurred during in September 2018, when AZ-TF1 was activated by and mobilized with approximately 35 members from the Phoenix Fire Department and two from the , departing at 3 a.m. on September 11 for . The team operated for 20 days in flood-affected areas, conducting and supporting evacuations; for instance, on September 16, AZ-TF1 members rescued five people and several pets by boat from heavy flooding in , contributing to broader efforts that saved dozens more from a local shelter. Challenges included navigating extensive inland flooding and coordinating with other task forces. The team returned home on September 30 without major incidents and aided in the recovery of over 40 affected counties. Post-2020 deployments have demonstrated further refinements in AZ-TF1's operational efficiency, particularly in response to and . In , AZ-TF1 dispatched a of 45 members, including two , to support and rescue efforts in , marking an early adaptation to the increasing frequency of such events under updated FEMA protocols that prioritize rapid scalability. More recently, in response to Hurricane Helene's Category 4 landfall in September 2024, AZ-TF1 was activated on September 27 and deployed to the Southeast, focusing on rescue and recovery in severely impacted areas like Buncombe County, North Carolina, where the team conducted operations for five days amid widespread flooding and infrastructure collapse. The mission extended to 16-20 days, also covering , with the team transporting 16 vehicles and approximately 100,000 pounds of equipment valued at $7 million; challenges involved tireless efforts in hazardous terrain and coordination across multiple states, but outcomes included successful support for evacuations and recovery, culminating in a safe return to on October 18 without reported casualties among the team. These missions highlight AZ-TF1's role in , with performance metrics showing high readiness and adaptability, though ongoing reviews address funding and equipment sustainability to mitigate post-deployment fatigue.

Notable Incidents and Line of Duty Deaths

Major Fires and Events

One of the most significant incidents in the Phoenix Fire Department's history occurred on June 5, 2021, when a massive fire broke out at a recycling facility near 35th Avenue and Lincoln Street in west Phoenix. The blaze, which escalated to a , rapidly spread to an adjacent , a tire shop, and several other businesses, fueled by combustible materials like scrap metal and . In response, the department coordinated a multi-agency effort involving over 200 firefighters from 10 different agencies, marking the largest mobilization in its history. Crews battled the flames for several days, using , , and to contain the spread and protect nearby structures. highlighted vulnerabilities in , leading to enhanced for inspections and compliance to prevent future large-scale fires at such facilities. Another notable structural fire took place on March 14, 2001, at the Southwest Supermarket in central Phoenix, where a 3-alarm blaze caused significant interior damage and prompted a complex search and rescue operation. Phoenix Fire Department crews employed aggressive interior tactics, including mayday procedures during a roof collapse risk, to suppress the fire and evacuate civilians. The event resulted in the line of duty death of one firefighter. Following the incident, the department conducted a thorough after-action review, which refined national standards for mayday event management and firefighter recovery processes, influencing training protocols across the U.S. In terms of wildland-urban interface events, the Phoenix Fire Department responded to a major on June 30, 2023, near 40th Street and McDowell Road, which began in dry brush and quickly spread to nearby homes due to high winds and close proximity to urban development. Escalating to a , approximately 75 firefighters from Phoenix, Tempe, and Scottsdale fire departments utilized , , and to halt the advance, ultimately destroying two homes and damaging four others. Response strategies emphasized rapid initial attack with hand crews and structure protection, drawing on the department's wildland training to mitigate interface risks. The incident underscored the need for ongoing in urban edges, prompting enhanced collaboration with local land management for . Historically, the stands as an early example of a major structural event, where a four-story wooden hotel in was completely destroyed by flames on May 17, despite volunteer firefighters' efforts with limited equipment. This disaster highlighted the limitations of the era's response capabilities, contributing to the evolution toward a professional department by 1922.

Line of Duty Deaths

The Phoenix Fire Department has experienced 11 line-of-duty deaths since its establishment in 1886, with the most recent occurring in 2013. These tragedies span various causes, including vehicle collisions, structural collapses during firefighting operations, drownings during water rescues, explosions in confined spaces, and medical emergencies while on duty. The fallen members are commemorated as follows:
  • Captain John D. "Jack" Sullivan died on December 9, 1929, after being thrown from a truck in a collision while responding to a fire.
  • Firefighter Ambrose Shea died on December 10, 1929, from injuries sustained in the same truck collision.
  • Firefighter Randolf J. "Randy" Potts died on August 6, 1974, after being crushed by a falling wall at a commercial structure fire.
  • Engineer Walter D. Kelson and Firefighter Chauncey E. Ray Jr. both died on March 12, 1977, after being overcome by cold water during a drowning rescue at Lake Pleasant.
  • Firefighter Dale R. Lockett died on August 5, 1979, after falling through a roof while checking it during a fire.
  • Engineer-HazMat Technician Ricky S. Pearce died on November 15, 1984, in a spontaneous explosion during a confined space rescue.
  • Engineer Timothy J. Hale died on February 12, 1994, after being crushed against an ambulance by a truck.
  • Firefighter-Paramedic Bret R. Tarver died on March 14, 2001, from carbon monoxide poisoning after becoming disoriented in a supermarket fire.
  • Engineer-Paramedic Mark S. Carter died on June 4, 2007, from a cardiac arrest while on duty.
  • Firefighter Bradley C. Harper died on May 19, 2013, after being pinned by another apparatus during a mulch fire response.
These deaths reflect statistical trends in causes, with early incidents (pre-1950) primarily involving vehicle collisions, while later ones (post-1970) more commonly resulted from structural hazards, rescue operations, and occupational health issues. The department honors these members through annual events, including the City of Phoenix Employee Memorial in February and the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona Memorial in October, as well as national recognitions via the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Additional tributes include gold and black flag streamers on Honor Guard flags, historical markers at incident sites funded by donations and the firefighters' union, and framed photographs with narratives displayed in relevant fire stations and the department's administrative building. In response to key deaths, the department has implemented safety improvements, such as enhanced mayday and rapid intervention protocols following Tarver's 2001 death, which involved dedicating hundreds of hours to operational reviews and training; this led to the development of the "Tarver Drill" for firefighter survival skills. Similar reviews after other incidents, like the 2013 Harper death, have emphasized apparatus positioning and extrication procedures during emergency responses.

References

  1. https://www.phoenix.gov/administration/departments/fire/about-us/units-divisions/operations-division.html
  2. https://www.phoenix.gov/administration/departments/fire/about-us/history.html
  3. https://www.phoenix.gov/administration/departments/aztf1.html
  4. https://kjzz.org/content/555956/inside-look-arizona-task-force-1
  5. https://www.phoenix.gov/administration/departments/fire/about-us/units-divisions/regional-dispatch-center.html
  6. https://apps.usfa.fema.gov/pdf/efop/efo49271.pdf
  7. https://phoenixfirefoundation.org/fallen-firefighters/j-d-jack-sullivan/
  8. https://local493.org/
  9. https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/fire-news/3245.html
  10. https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/fire-news/3323.html
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  28. https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix-breaking/2021/06/05/firefighters-battle-fifth-alarm-fire-west-phoenix-recycling-yards/7565565002/
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  30. https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/recycling-company-that-owns-phoenix-facility-that-burned-has-troubled-history/75-2bf7eaf7-9654-4c68-95e4-ea0da0799099
  31. https://www.abc15.com/news/region-phoenix-metro/south-phoenix/firefighters-battle-recycling-yard-fire-near-35th-avenue-and-buckeye-road
  32. https://www.phoenix.gov/cityclerksite/City%20Council%20Meeting%20Files/250205002.pdf
  33. https://www.phoenixopendata.com/dataset/fire-operational-statistics/resource/9974d678-941d-4048-85bb-7a874d2721f9?inner_span=True
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  46. https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/phoenix-fire-department-trains-new-tools-assist-during-water-rescues-while-monsoon-season-approaches
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