Melissa Donovan
On October 1, 2024, the Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) marked an extraordinary milestone—half a century of dedicated service to the community. The department celebrated 50 years of progress, commitment, and the unwavering spirit of public service with a reunion of past and present personnel, reflecting on the incredible journey from humble beginnings to one of Florida’s most respected fire service organizations.
A Special Reunion: Honoring a Legacy
The highlight of the 50th anniversary celebration was a heartfelt reunion held at the Fire Training Center, bringing together more than 200 retired and current firefighters. Among the attendees were all five former Fire Chiefs and some of the original crew members who were there when the department was first established in 1974. It was a poignant occasion, filled with stories of bravery, sacrifice, and the deep camaraderie that defines the fire service.
“Having our retirees join together at our Fire Training Center symbolized our common bond and rich history. It reminds us that we belong to something bigger than ourselves—something we all share in the fire service and proudly serve our citizens,” Fire Chief Matt Kinley said.
The event was made even more special thanks to the generous donation of food from the Gary Sinise Foundation, which has long supported first responders and military personnel across the country.
From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Department
When SCFD was first formed in 1974, it began with the consolidation of several volunteer fire departments across the unincorporated areas of Seminole County. Back then, resources were limited, firefighters worked with borrowed equipment and a provisional communication system. The department had no central station and operated out of makeshift locations such as a two-bedroom apartment, a trailer, and even a garage.
Today, the Seminole County Fire Department is a vastly different entity. From its original nine stations, the department now operates out of 20 fully equipped fire stations strategically located throughout the county. The growth in personnel reflects this expansion—what started with just 27 firefighters now boasts a dedicated team of 575. And where the department once responded to 1,905 calls in its first year, in 2023, SCFD answered more than 50,000 emergency calls.
Growth in Resources and Capabilities
SCFD has grown to meet the increasing needs of its community, investing in state-of-the-art vehicles, equipment, and specialized units. Today, the department operates a fleet that includes 16 Advanced Life Support (ALS) engines, 21 ALS transport rescues, tower trucks, and specialized units for hazardous materials, swiftwater rescue, large animal rescue, and rehabilitation. SCFD’s personnel are trained to handle a wide variety of emergencies, from fires to medical emergencies, hazardous situations, and natural disasters.
This growth has not gone unnoticed, SCFD has earned top accreditations in the fire service industry, including a prestigious ISO Class 1 rating for fire protection—placing it in the top 1% of fire departments nationwide for effectiveness. The department is also accredited by the Center for Public Safety Excellence and the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS), further underscoring its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and operational excellence.
Giving Back to the Community
While responding to emergencies is at the core of SCFD’s mission, its commitment to the community extends far beyond the ground. As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, SCFD organized a series of outreach events designed to strengthen its bonds with the community it serves.
Firefighters visited local schools, including The Geneva School, where they worked with students to collect teddy bears for children in hospitals. They also attended Winter Springs High School to participate in a ceremonial challenge coin toss, kicking off a high school football game with a nod to the department’s ongoing legacy. Additionally, SCFD personnel visited local libraries for story time sessions, engaging with children and families to promote fire safety awareness and foster positive relationships with their local fire department.
These community outreach efforts reflect SCFD’s core mission: to provide exceptional service, protect lives and property, and create a safer, stronger community. Whether responding to a fire, providing medical assistance, or helping organize charity drives, SCFD has been there for the people of Seminole County, and the department’s commitment to its mission remains as strong as ever.
Looking to the Future
As the Seminole County Fire Department celebrates its 50th anniversary, it looks to the future with confidence and pride. With a dedicated and highly trained team, state-of-the-art equipment, and a legacy of service, SCFD is poised to continue its mission of safeguarding the residents and visitors of Seminole County for the next fifty years and beyond.
The Seminole County Fire Department’s 50th anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements, but a reaffirmation of the department’s unwavering dedication to its community. Through hard work, innovation, and a deep sense of duty, SCFD will continue to serve as a beacon of excellence in public safety for decades to come.
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