2,200+
Annual Calls for Service
October marks Fire Prevention Month, and Madison’s two dedicated fire departments are here to help keep our community safe. Both Madison Hose Company #1 and North Madison Volunteer Fire Company serve different regions of our town with the same mission: protecting our residents and properties from fire dangers.
Madison’s Fire Departments: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Madison Hose Company #1
- Established in 1907
- Serves downtown Madison and the southern portion of town
- Located at 665 Boston Post Road
- All-volunteer department
- Responded to 620 incidents in 2023
North Madison Volunteer Fire Company
- Established in 1925 (celebrating 100 years this year!)
- Covers the northern portion of Madison (north of Horsepond Road, Warpas Road, Winter Hill, and East Wood Road to the Killingworth Town Line)
- Protects over 3,000 homes, several commercial complexes, and thousands of acres of forest
- Covers approximately 23 square miles
- Serves one Madison Public School, a private K-8 school, and several nursery schools and daycares
- Responds to over 350 calls annually
- Located at 864 Opening Hill Road
Fire Prevention Education During October
Both fire departments place special emphasis on community education during Fire Prevention Month:
- School Visits: Madison Hose Company #1 and the Fire Marshal’s Office visit local schools to discuss fire safety with students and teachers. These visits include demonstrations of firefighter gear and tours of fire engines.
- North Madison Open House: The North Madison Volunteer Fire Company hosts an annual open house during October, inviting community members to learn about fire prevention, meet firefighters, and tour their facilities.
These educational initiatives help raise awareness about fire safety practices and build important connections between firefighters and the community they serve.
Fire Safety Considerations for Madison Homes
Madison presents some unique fire safety challenges that residents should be aware of:
Historical and Coastal Properties
- Many historic homes in certain sections of town may have older electrical systems or structural considerations that require special attention
- Coastal cottages face additional risks during strong winds off the water, which can fuel fires with extra oxygen and make firefighting more challenging
Seasonal Considerations
- Wood stoves and fireplaces used during colder months require proper maintenance and care
- Proximity to wooded areas creates wildfire concerns, especially during dry periods
- Leaf accumulation in gutters and around foundations can pose fire hazards in fall
Fire Prevention Tips for Madison Residents
Home Safety Checklist
- Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and in each bedroom
- Test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries at least once a year
- Install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas
- Keep fire extinguishers accessible and know how to use them
- Create and practice a home fire escape plan with your family
- Ensure your house number is clearly visible from the street for emergency responders
Seasonal Fire Prevention
- Have chimneys and heating systems professionally inspected annually
- Keep portable heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn
- Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, roofs, and around the foundation of your home
- Never leave cooking unattended
- Practice proper candle safety, especially during holiday seasons
- Properly dispose of ashes from fireplaces and wood stoves in metal containers, away from structures
Outdoor Fire Safety
- Follow town ordinances regarding open burning
- Keep grills away from structures and overhanging tree branches
- Properly dispose of smoking materials
- Be aware of dry conditions that may increase wildfire risk
Supporting Our Fire Departments
Both Madison fire departments rely on community support and volunteers:
Volunteer Opportunities
- Firefighters and Medical Responders: Both departments are always seeking new volunteers
- Junior Firefighter Program: North Madison offers a Junior Firefighter Program for young people interested in fire service
- Associate Membership: North Madison offers associate membership for those with special skills to contribute
- Support at Events: Attend fundraisers like the Madison Hose Company Junior Car Wash or their award-winning chili at the annual Souper Bowl
Donations
Both departments welcome donations that help improve equipment, training facilities, and public education efforts:
- North Madison Volunteer Fire Company: https://nmvfc.org/donate
- Madison Hose Company #1: Contact them directly at info@madisonhoseco1.com
Emergency Response in Madison
When you call 911 for a fire emergency in Madison:
- The appropriate fire department will be dispatched based on your location
- Both departments provide mutual aid to each other when needed
- Madison EMS coordinates with fire departments for medical emergencies
- Both departments include medical first responders who can provide initial care before ambulance arrival
Community Events and Outreach
Throughout the year, both fire departments engage with the community through various events:
- School visits and fire safety education
- Open houses during Fire Prevention Month
- Both departments’ popular Santa Deliveries (registration typically opens in November)
- Library events and story times focusing on fire safety
- Community fundraisers and awareness campaigns
In Case of Fire: Remember
- Get Out and Stay Out: Never re-enter a burning building
- Call 911: Provide your exact location
- Meet at Your Designated Meeting Place: Account for everyone in your household
- Wait for Firefighters: Direct them to the fire location if safe to do so
Contact Information
Madison Hose Company #1
- Address: 665 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 06443
- Non-Emergency: (203) 245-2772
- Email: info@madisonhoseco1.com
- Website: https://www.madisonhoseco1.com/
North Madison Volunteer Fire Company
- Address: 864 Opening Hill Road, Madison, CT 06443
- Email: contact@nmvfc.org
- Website: https://nmvfc.org/
For all emergencies, dial 911.
Fire Prevention Month is an excellent reminder to review your home’s fire safety measures, but fire prevention should be practiced year-round. Our dedicated volunteer firefighters work tirelessly to protect Madison, and by taking preventative measures in our own homes, we become partners in keeping our community safe.
