The Special Fire Police Officer 

A Pennsylvania Special Fire Police Officer is a member of a volunteer fire company empowered by the municipality to handle emergency situations throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  We are trained to address those situations and difficulties the public faces in encountering them. 

We are the face of the volunteer fire company.  When a resident arrives on the scene in a panic as their home and belongings are being destroyed by flames, we are the compassionate face that directs them to the scene to learn the extent of their loss. 

We are the face that makes a safe path for apparatus arriving on a scene. 

We are the face that welcomes the men and women of the media as they attempt to do their jobs.  We allow them to do so in a limited area for their safety and the safety of the fire fighters on the scene. 

We are the face that welcomes the Red Cross and provides a safe place for them to work. 

We are the face that assists the utility worker in making a scene safe for all those present. 

We are the face that directs motorists around the scene of an accident or explains to them the reason for the delay.  As best as we can, we provide information on alternate routes, recognizing that many people do not respond well to a change in their plans. 

We are the face that assists the Emergency Medical Technicians in working without interference, and in departing the scene to obtain necessary treatment for victims. 

We are the face that provides safe clearance around a helicopter landing zone so no one is injured by flying debris or a possible landing accident. 

We are the face that protects the public from a police incident where there may be live fire. 

We are the face that assists the public in evacuation and clearance of a hazardous material incident. 

We are the face that the friend or relative of an accident victim sees as they approach with apprehension for their loved ones.  We calm them and provide a safe place to park.  We walk them to command to assist them in dealing with the tragedy. 

We are the face that helps the police officer move a wrecker into position, control a crime scene, and identify possible arson suspects in a suspicious fire scene. 

We are the face that observes an impaired motorist and within our limited authority, detain that motorist until a police officer is available to address any motor vehicle code infraction. 

We are dedicated, trained and prepared to solve any problem we face. 

We are the public relations arm of the fire company, dealing with the public, sharing what information we can, assuring them that fire fighters know their job, and providing a safe experience for the fire fighters, EMTs, Media, victims, and the public. 

Jack Urling, Hampden Township Volunteer Fire Co., July 15, 2007