Safety. Service. Tradition.
When the lights come on, we're already there. A volunteer association of trained, sworn fire police officers serving West Chester Borough and surrounding Chester County fire companies — at emergency scenes, parades, and community events.
What Fire Police Do
Three core responsibilities define the fire police role at every scene and detail we work.
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Traffic Control
We direct traffic around emergency scenes, downed wires, and roadway hazards — keeping first responders safe and helping the public move around the incident.
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Scene Safety
We establish perimeters at structure fires, motor vehicle crashes, and hazardous materials incidents — keeping bystanders out and protecting evidence until the scene is cleared.
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Crowd Management
We manage crowds and intersections so community events run safely — parades, Christmas in West Chester, QVC events, and athletic events at WCU.
Who We Are & Our Mission
Fire police are sworn officers appointed by a borough or township under Pennsylvania law, trained in traffic and incident scene management to assist firefighters and other emergency responders.
At an active scene, we have the same authority as municipal police. Off-duty, we are civilian volunteers drawn from the membership of local fire companies.
Our mission: support trained, sworn fire police officers serving our community; advance the safety of firefighters and the public at every scene and event; and honor the volunteer tradition of fire service in Chester County.
Under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3327, drivers approaching an emergency response area must merge into a non-adjacent lane. If you can't merge safely, reduce speed and pass with caution. Fire police directing traffic are protected by this law — and so are you.
When You'll See Us
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Emergency Scenes
Structure fires, motor vehicle crashes, downed power lines, HazMat incidents, and gas leaks — any roadway emergency requiring traffic control or scene security.
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Community Events
The West Chester Christmas Parade, Halloween Parade, Memorial Day services, and Old Fashioned Christmas — plus civic processions and athletic events requiring road closures.
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Neighboring Counties
We support neighboring Chester County and Delaware County fire police units on large-scale incidents and major events that exceed local resources.
Every active officer completes Basic Fire Police certification and ongoing training through the Chester County Public Safety Training Campus and the PA State Fire Academy.
Donate
We are a volunteer organization. Your support keeps our members trained, equipped, and on the road.
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Where Your Dollars Go
- High-visibility uniforms and reflective gear
- Traffic cones, LED batons, and scene lighting
- Training tuition and travel for member courses
- Radios and communications equipment
- Member welfare and memorial expenses
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Ways to Give
By mail. Cash or check made payable to the West Chester Fire Police, mailed to the address in the footer.
In person. Bring cash or a check made payable to the West Chester Fire Police to any monthly meeting.
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Tax Status
We are a not-for-profit organization. EIN: 23-2276435
Donations may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. Consult your tax advisor.
A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
Local businesses and civic groups can sponsor training classes, apparatus, or annual events. Recognition opportunities are available — send us a message.
Join Us or Reach Out
New members are always welcome, and we're glad to answer questions from residents, event organizers, and neighboring companies.
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Who We're Looking For
Dependable volunteers who want to serve their community and are willing to work outdoors, in traffic, and in all weather — often at night and on short notice.
No prior fire or emergency service experience is required. We provide the training.
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How to Become a Member
- Reach out. Send us a message or an email and tell us a little about yourself.
- Meet us. Come to one of our monthly meetings, or ride along at an event, to see what the work involves.
- Train. Complete Basic Fire Police certification through the Chester County Public Safety Training Campus or the PA State Fire Academy.
- Get sworn in. Fire police are appointed and sworn by the borough or township under Pennsylvania law.
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Other Questions
Event coverage. Organizers who need traffic control or road closures for a parade, race, or civic event can contact us to discuss a detail.
Mutual aid. Neighboring fire police units can reach us through the same channels.
Emergencies. Always dial 9-1-1. This page is not monitored for emergencies.
Send Us a Message
Questions about joining, event coverage, or anything else — send it over and we'll get back to you.