About the Jackson Fire Department
About the Jackson Fire Department
Our History
1882 was a pivotal year for the Jackson Fire Department. On March 7, citizens met to discuss the need for an organized fire company and better firefighting equipment. This led to a special meeting of city leaders, resulting in the purchase of new equipment, construction of water cisterns, an alarm system, and the official formation of the Jackson Volunteer Fire Department on March 15, 1882. By 1893, the city transitioned to a paid Fire Department.
In 1885, the completion of Jackson’s water works marked a milestone in fire prevention. Fire hydrants on most street corners provided 80 pounds of pressure, ending the need for hand-pumping water. That year, the city added hose carts and reel houses, allowing volunteers to quickly connect hoses to hydrants. By November, the Fire and Water Works Committee sold the hand-pumping engine, signaling a new era of efficiency.
In 1912, Jackson acquired its first motorized firefighting apparatus, the American LaFrance Pumping Machine—the first of its kind in Tennessee. By 1923, the department included additional engines and a chemical/ladder wagon built from a Ford Model T. Growing city demands led to the opening of new stations, including Station #2 in 1925 and Station #3 in 1949 to address eastward expansion and train blockages.
The 1970s brought significant advancements in communication and dispatch, with the appointment of full-time dispatchers and modern equipment replacing horse-drawn apparatus. Over time, the department expanded its role, offering services like water rescue, hazardous materials response, and rope rescue. The Rescue Squad, established in 1989, focuses on specialized equipment and rescuing trapped motorists.
Today, the Jackson Fire Department operates with a commitment to excellence, providing 24/7, 365 fire and emergency response service. Firefighters undergo continuous training in fire suppression, rescue techniques, and hazardous materials to protect lives and livelihoods in Jackson, TN. Our Fire Department remains dedicated to state-of-the-art training, staying ahead by actively monitoring state requirements and embracing new certifications, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of emergency services. Together, we are dedicated to the safety, resilience, and well-being of our community.
Our Leadership
Help Us help Others
The Jackson Fire + Rescue Community Safety Fund
Did you know: City funding covers essential fire rescue support, but there are limitations to funding progressive community safety advancements. Over 94% of our annual operating budget is allocated toward department salaries and benefits. Donations, community support, and business partnerships allow us to improve our services while expanding our community safety, training, and preparedness efforts in our growing city.
We’re proud to accept donations from individuals, local businesses, and corporations to support the mission of Jackson Fire & Rescue Department. These generous contributions strengthen our fire and life safety initiatives, extend training for our personnel, and invest in advanced technology to better serve our community. Your support truly makes a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of everyone we serve.
Your donation to the Jackson Fire & Rescue Community Safety Fund strengthens our ability to protect local life and property through fire rescue, prevention, and emergency medical response.
Facebook Posts
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0 CommentsComment on Facebook
💦🚒 What a great day at JCS Preschool’s Water Day! Our firefighters had an absolute blast helping the kids cool off, stay active, and make some unforgettable summer memories.
From spraying water to sharing plenty of smiles and laughs, it was a fun-filled day for everyone involved. Thank you to JCS Preschool for inviting us to be part of the excitement!
We love opportunities like this to connect with our community and show that firefighters don’t just respond to emergencies—we also enjoy making a splash with our youngest citizens! ☀️💙 #JacksonFireDepartment #CommunityFirst #WaterDay #MakingASplash 🚒💦 ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
🚒🎉 Help us congratulate Firefighter Brady Stewart on his promotion to Driver with the Jackson Fire Department!
This promotion reflects Brady’s hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving our community. As a Driver, he will take on increased responsibilities both on the fireground and in daily operations, helping ensure our crews are ready to respond when called upon.
Please join us in wishing Driver Stewart continued success as he begins this new chapter in his fire service career. Congratulations, Brady! 👏🚒 #JacksonFire #Promotion #FireService #JFDProud #ServingOurCommunity ... See MoreSee Less
20 CommentsComment on Facebook
A huge shoutout and thank you to Madison County Fire for their incredible support recently! 🚒🔥
They generously allowed us to utilize their drill field for our latest live fire training with our newest recruit class. True teamwork makes the dream work, and collaborating with MCF not only strengthens our skills but also ensures our community is safer than ever. We are incredibly grateful for your hospitality and partnership. Here’s to many more joint efforts down the line!🤝💪
#CommunityPartners #Teamwork #FireTraining #MadisonCountyFire #WorkingTogether ... See MoreSee Less
5 CommentsComment on Facebook
We want to remind every one of our seasonal fireworks sales and use period for the July 4, 2026 season.
Seasonal retail sales of fireworks within the city limits of the City of Jackson shall be allowed between June 20 and July 5 from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Use of fireworks within the city limits of the City of Jackson shall be limited to June 30 through July 5 between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Use of fireworks shall also be allowed from 11:00 a.m. on July 4 until 12:30 a.m. on July 5.
Read more of the ordinance by visiting the Municipal Code link on the Codes & Ordinances page of our website. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
Engine 32 A shift and Medic 31 had a great time visiting Golden Years Adult Day Care! Our crews shared important fire safety tips, answered questions, and gave everyone an up-close look at the fire truck and emergency equipment.
Thank you for welcoming us and allowing us to help promote fire safety in our community. We enjoyed spending time with everyone and look forward to visiting again!
🚒🔥 #JacksonFireDepartment #firesafety #CommunityRiskReduction #engine32 #medic31 #communitypartners #fireprevention #jacksontn ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentsComment on Facebook
One of the greatest responsibilities of a firefighter is passing knowledge on to the next generation.
Today, Firefighter Billy Zabriskie volunteered his time to spend the day with our current recruit class, sharing his expertise and providing hands-on ladder training. His willingness to invest in these future firefighters reflects the dedication, professionalism, and pride that make the fire service so special.
The skills taught today will help prepare our recruits for the challenges ahead and strengthen the safety of both our department and the community we serve. Thank you, Billy, for leading by example and helping shape the firefighters of tomorrow.
🚒👏 #JacksonFireDepartment #trainingthenextgeneration #fireservicetradition ... See MoreSee Less
3 CommentsComment on Facebook
Don't miss your chance to order the Jackson Fire Department's America's 250th Commemorative T-Shirt!
✅ $25 + shipping
✅ Orders close June 30
✅ Shipped directly to your home around July 15
Every shirt purchased helps support Jackson Fire's 2026 Fire Prevention Week and other community fire safety initiatives that make our community safer.
Wear your patriotism with pride while helping us educate, prepare, and protect our community.
jfdpublic.itemorder.com/shop/home/
Order yours before June 30! 🇺🇸🚒 #Americas250 #JacksonFireDepartment #FirePrevention #CommunitySafety #JFDProud ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
We received a call from a concerned citizen this morning about a feline victim stuck 2 days in a tree. Thanks to the crew of E42C the kitten has been safely rescued and reunited with her family. ... See MoreSee Less
23 CommentsComment on Facebook