About the Department

Mission

"The mission of the Hamden Fire Department is to protect lives and property from fire and hazardous conditions through education, code enforcement, and effective emergency response. We will deliver emergency medical care in a compassionate professional manner and treat all persons with dignity and respect. We will maintain the public's trust through teamwork, appreciation of diversity, efficiency and ethical decision making. Our most valuable assets are our firefighters as they strive for excellence in service to our community."

-Gary P. Merwede, Chief of Department

Philosophy

Pride

The department's success relies upon the strength of its members. Pride and emergency services go hand in hand. Pride is instilled in each member through training, mentoring, discipline, and the sheer love of the job. Hamden enjoys the luxury of operating a combination fire department. Both career and volunteer members share a common goal and are rich in history.

Tradition

Tradition in the fire service is the fabric that ties our members together. This is evident with both our career and volunteer members. We will continue to instill our traditional values to our new members while remaining cognizant of the challenges of the future.

Professionalism

Our departments professional demeanor, appearance, and actions will remain steadfast. Members of the department will portray themselves in a professional manner at all times both on and off duty. We will strive to treat each member of the community we serve in a professional manner. All members must be accountable for their actions and maintain their professionalism. Remaining consistent with the department's mission statement of placing the safety of the public first is paramount.