Fire police often draw confused looks outside Pennsylvania, but the Waterloo Fire Department says they play a critical role at emergency scenes.
In a recent explainer, the department broke down who fire police are, what they do, and why some states rely on them more than others.
The goal, officials say, is simple: keep everyone safe so firefighters and EMS can do their jobs.
What fire police do
Fire police are trained members of a fire company who focus on scene safety and traffic control. They respond to fires, vehicle crashes, hazardous conditions, and large-scale incidents or events.
Their role is to protect responders, victims, and the public by controlling traffic and securing the scene.
A formal, sworn role
The department stressed that fire police are not informal helpers.
In states like Pennsylvania, fire police complete formal training, receive certification, and are sworn in by a district justice.
They operate within the Incident Command System and have limited legal authority while on duty. That authority allows them to enforce road closures at emergency scenes, not just suggest them.
What the training includes
Fire police training typically covers traffic control and roadway safety. It also includes emergency scene management, legal responsibilities, communication with police, fire, and EMS, and public interaction during high-stress situations.
The department said this training exists because poor traffic control can get people hurt.
Who serves as fire police
Many fire police are retired or injured firefighters who still want to serve their communities.
Others are long-time volunteers with extensive scene experience or community members who want to help without serving as interior firefighters. For some, it becomes a lifelong service role that allows them to stay connected to the fire service.
Why some states don’t use them
In larger cities or fully staffed departments, police typically handle all traffic control. In those systems, fire police aren’t necessary. But in rural or volunteer-based communities, the Waterloo Fire Department said fire police are often essential, not optional.
The bigger picture
The department said fire police exist for one reason: making sure everyone goes home safely.
While the role may look unfamiliar in some places, officials say it continues where it exists because it works.
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