One day , the Jeffersonville Fire Department ( JFD ) employees are getting involved in a local elementary school ’ s “ Bee Walk ,” to encourage the community to grow more flowers for pollen to help increase the local bee population . The next day , JFD employees are teaming up with Norton Children ' s Hospital to host a class on how to safely install child safety seats .
In between their many community activities , the JFD employees save lives , and they have been doing this since 1871 . The JFD has provided necessary fire rescue services for 150 years , and the City of Jeffersonville is honoring those who have served along with those who currently serve as firefighters and administrators of the JFD .
With approximately 63,000 residents in a 30-square-mile area , the JFD has five fire stations throughout Jeffersonville . From fighting the 2004 extensive fire that tore through seven historical commercial buildings in downtown Jeffersonville to putting out a brush fire , the JPD firefighters are on the job .
In 1801 the city of Jeffersonville was formed . From that date until 1871 , fires were typically extinguished by members in the community through bucket brigades . It took Jeffersonville 70 years to form a fire department .
The JFD includes full-time , professional firefighters who are members of International Association of Firefighters Local 558 . Duties include fire suppression , heavy rescue , non-transport emergency medical care , HAZMAT response , and responding to water rescue emergencies .
Jeffersonville Fire Department / 150 years 7