Divisions

The Sierra Madre Fire Department (SMFD) is a full-service career fire department dedicated to providing fire suppression, emergency medical services (EMS), rescue operations, hazardous materials response, and community education. Operating from a single fire station, the department is staffed by one Fire Chief, three Fire Captains, three Fire Engineers and nine Firefighters/Paramedics.

SMFD operates on a three-platoon system following a 48/96 schedule, where each platoon works a 48-hour shift every six days. For larger incidents requiring additional command oversight, Battalion Chief coverage is provided through a contract agreement with the City of Arcadia.

At present, Fire Prevention responsibilities are partially managed through an outsourced contract Fire Marshal, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and fire code enforcement.

SMFD plays a critical role in emergency medical response, with EMS calls making up 65% of total call volume. The division undergoes monthly training and continuing education to maintain licensure and enhance their skills.

SMFD personnel respond rapidly to medical emergencies, delivering compassionate, high-quality care to residents. In the past year, firefighters/paramedics treated 982 patients, with 743 transported to local hospitals and 239 declining transport. The leading cause of EMS activation in Sierra Madre is trauma-related incidents, with falls accounting for 16% of all calls.

In November 2024, SMFD upgraded Fire Engine 41 from a Paramedic Assessment Unit (PAU) to a Paramedic Engine, following detailed audits by the Los Angeles Department of Health Services. This enhancement allows Medic Engine 41 to carry the same advanced medical equipment and medications as Rescue Ambulance 41, ensuring the community has two fully equipped advanced life support (ALS) units operating 24/7.

The Sierra Madre Fire Department’s Training Division promotes the improvement of public service through the facilitation of daily training drills and exercises, to ensure that consistent and effective emergency services continue to be provided to the citizens and visitors of Sierra Madre. The Training Division continually strives to assist its personnel by providing a structured training program and quality learning environment. This division focuses on developing and strengthening each members essential job skills, and insures all members are capable of performing the highest quality of public service. The Training Division is overseen by the Training Captain and supported by the Training Coordinator.

The Fire Department is responsible for safeguarding the community through adherence to fire regulations and hazard mitigation. Annual visits and fire safety inspections are conducted in businesses, apartment buildings, childcare facilities and schools, as well as annual inspections of existing business and apartment buildings.

Visits are made to businesses to ensure a fire safe facility and to provide occupants with safety tips and information. Residential inspections are initiated through invitation or neighborhood concerns.

The Fire Department is also responsible for conducting plan reviews and inspections at construction sites in the City of Sierra Madre. All new construction and renovation projects are required to install fire sprinklers throughout the renovated structure.

The Sierra Madre Fire Code can be found under Title 8 and Title 15 of the Sierra Madre Municipal Code.