During a period of rapid residential development in the 1890's, residents on the east side of the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook pressed for additional firefighting services. They formed the Eagle Hose Co. No. 1 in January, 1900, and laid the cornerstone for the Village's second fire station at 19 Circle Avenue on September 21, 1902. This building remained in use until it was demolished in 1940.

The third facility and second Hudson Street Station was built as a municipal complex, housing both the fire and police departments and the municipal and district court. The building was completed in 1911 and remained in service as Fire Headquarters until July 30, 1993. It was razed three months later.

In response to residents' concerns after a serious fire in the mid 1940's and to better serve the west side of town, Engine Company No. 31 was established in 1947. Located at 311 West Glen Avenue, the structure is a renovated barn which houses an apparatus room, offices, and living quarters for firefighters. This fire station has served the Village for half its firefighting history.

The Village's fifth fire station and current department headquarters is located at 201 E.

Ridgewood Fire Hqts

Glen Avenue. This facility has been operational since June 1, 1992 and serves as quarters for the officers and men of Engine Company No. 35, Ladder Company No. 36, and Rescue Company No. 42. The building also houses the administrative offices, the Fire Prevention Bureau.

Fire Department Volunteers:

Organized in 1897, the Village's first fire department was comprised entirely of volunteers and numbered 68 men by the turn of the century. It was not until the 1930's that a career chief and several career firefighters were hired. Today, volunteers continue to be a valuable asset to the department and the community.

The Village is currently participating in the State of New Jersey's Volunteer Recruitment and Retention Program. Individuals over 18 years of age who are interested in becoming volunteer firefighters May call 1-800-FIRELINE or The Fire Chief at 444-4224 for more information.

Today's Firefighters:

Today's firefighters are called upon to do much more than put out fires. Our Fire Department is skilled at handling a variety of emergency situations and is called upon to respond to motor vehicle accients, hazardous spills, downed wires, and medical emergencies. The Department also has a Dive Team to handle ice and water rescues. Sixteen of Ridgewood's career firefighters have completed emergency medical technician training and all members of the Department are qualified to provide basic first aid and CPR.

Fire Prevention Saves Lives:

Educating youngsters about fire safety is an important aspect of the Fire Prevention Bureau's duties and a focus during Fire Prevention Week. Children are taught that they can't hide from fire but they can escape. The Bureau emphasizes the importance of planning at least two escape routes from each room and selecting a meeting place outside the home. Practice drills are recommended at least twice a year.

The installation and proper maintenance of smoke alarms are important factors in saving lives. An inspection to assure that smoke alarms are present and in proper working condition is required prior to the sale of all homes in Ridgewood. Further information may be obtained by calling the Bureau at 444-7898.