About Our Department

Three companies united by tradition, service, and dedication.

South River Fire Department Group Photo
South River Fire Department, 2023

Our History and Mission

The South River Fire Department has proudly served the community since 1907. What began as a small group of dedicated volunteers has grown into a robust department with three distinct companies working together to protect life and property.

Our mission is simple: provide the highest level of fire protection and emergency services to the residents and businesses of South River through prevention, education, and swift response.

550+
calls answered annually, ranging structure fires and motor vehicle accidents to hazardous materials incidents and other emergencies.

The South River Fire Department consists of three distinct fire companies, each with its own rich history and tradition. Together, they form a unified department that provides comprehensive fire protection services to the entire South River community.

Each company maintains their own firehouse and apparatus, but all operate under the unified command structure of the department. This approach allows us to combine resources for maximum efficiency while preserving the unique heritage of each company.

Our volunteer firefighters undergo rigorous training to meet state and national standards, including Firefighter I, hazardous materials operations, vehicle extrication, and more.

Department Leadership

William Smith

Chief 1

Scott Wolf

Chief 2

Steve Drugos

Chief 3

Our Service Area

The South River Fire Department serves the entire Borough of South River, covering approximately 2.9 square miles with a population of about 16,000 residents. Our strategic placement of two fire stations across the borough ensures rapid response to any emergency.

1898 Incorporated
2.9 Square Miles
16,000 Residents
2 Fire Stations

Our Fire Companies

Three independent companies working together as one unified department

Engine Company No. 1

Est. 1907
Location 69 Jackson St, South River, NJ 08882
Service Area Borough-Wide

Coming Soon...

Engine Company No. 1 Firehouse

Apparatus

Ladder 1

2019 Pierce Enforcer Pumper

Firemen's Exempt Association

Honoring dedicated service and supporting our veteran firefighters

Firemen's Exempt Association Members

About the Association

The South River Firemen's Exempt Association was established to recognize and support firefighters who have completed seven or more years of active service. This organization serves as both an honor society for veteran firefighters and as an advocacy group for their interests.

The Exempt Association helps maintain the bond between active and retired firefighters, preserves department heritage, and ensures that the knowledge and experience of veteran members continues to benefit the department and community.

Meetings

The Firemen's Exempt Association meets quarterly at rotating firehouses throughout South River. Special meetings may be called as needed for urgent business or elections.

Eligibility

Active firefighters who have served honorably for a minimum of seven years with the South River Fire Department are eligible to become members of the Exempt Association. The process involves certification by the fire chief and approval by the municipal clerk.

Member Benefits

  • Life membership after 7 years of active service
  • Networking opportunities with other exempt firefighters
  • Representation at state-level exempt association events
  • Collective voice for legislative matters affecting exempt firefighters

Ready to Join Our Team?

We're always looking for dedicated volunteers to join our ranks.