Mission Statement

The mission of the Silver Spring Community Fire Company is to protect lives and property within Silver Spring Township - serving residents, businesses, visitors, and travelers. We respond to all emergencies for which we are trained and properly equipped, operating under the direction of authorized agencies. Our services reflect a commitment to excellence through the delivery of “All-Hazards” emergency response, emphasizing fire prevention, public safety education, and community engagement to the fullest extent possible.

Company History

Origins: A Community Answering the Call (1954)

The Silver Spring Community Fire Company was founded in response to the growing need for local fire protection in Silver Spring Township. In April 1954, residents organized efforts to establish a volunteer fire company. By June, officers had been elected, and operations began from a garage at the Garver’s Auction grounds - offered in exchange for fire and EMS coverage during speedway events.

A 1924 Hale pumper was the first engine acquired, donated by Mechanicsburg Fire Company. This was followed by a tank truck and a 1939 LaSalle ambulance, establishing a foundation of fire and emergency medical services. On September 2, 1954, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania granted the company's official charter, with 75 founding members and a commitment to serve.

Growth and Infrastructure Development (1959–1980s)

In 1959, the Company broke ground for its first permanent fire station at 6506 Carlisle Pike. Completed largely through volunteer labor, the station opened in 1961 and served the community for decades. During this period, the department expanded its fleet to include modernized apparatus such as:

• A Mack pumper

• Seagrave engine

• Chevrolet tanker–pumper

• Dodge military-converted brush truck

In 1970, the ambulance service became a separate administrative entity to improve operational focus, though collaboration with EMS providers continued. By the 1980s, membership swelled to over 140, reinforcing the department’s capacity and community engagement.

A Modern Station and Fleet (1985–2001)

The late 20th century marked a period of modernization. The Company purchased its first new engine in 1984 - a Mack with a five-man cab and enhanced pumping capacity. A new Dodge Power Wagon, a 1993 E-One pumper–tanker, and the separation of emergency response roles helped elevate service standards.

By 1995, increasing suburban development and safety concerns prompted the construction of a new firehouse at 6471 Carlisle Pike. The facility featured:

• Five modern apparatus bays

• A banquet hall for community events and fundraisers

• Upgraded administrative and training space

Fleet improvements continued into the early 2000s with the addition of:

• A mini-pumper with foam and pump-and-roll capabilities

• A specialized traffic unit equipped for scene lighting, rehab, and roadway safety

• New rescue vehicles to enhance technical rescue capabilities

Today: A 21st-Century Fire Company

Silver Spring Community Fire Company is a combination department consisting of dedicated volunteers and three full-time apparatus drivers. We serve approximately 33 square miles of diverse terrain, including:

• Suburban neighborhoods

• Commercial and light industrial complexes

• Rural farmland

• Several miles of Interstate 81

• Multiple healthcare and senior living facilities

With an annual call volume exceeding 700 incidents, the department responds to structural fires, vehicle crashes, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, and mutual aid requests. Our fleet includes:

• Engine 31 “Big Red II” (2018 E-One Cyclone)

• Squad 31 (2008 Sutphen Monarch)

• Mini-Pumper 31

• Traffic 31

• Utility and command units

We operate from our modern station, which was expanded in 2014, providing the space and resources needed to continue delivering high-quality emergency services.

Who We Are

Fighters
We face danger head-on. Our personnel are trained, resilient, and unwavering in their mission to protect the public.

Lifesavers
We are committed to safeguarding lives. Whether through fire suppression, emergency medical response, or technical rescue, we serve with integrity and urgency.

Team Players
We are stronger together. From fireground operations to community events, our success relies on teamwork, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to excellence.