Community service comes in many forms—coaching Little League, being a Boy Scout or Girl Scout leader, driving for charitable organizations, and joining our village volunteer fire department.

The Rockville Centre Fire Department was formed in 1875. Throughout all these years we have relied solely on members of our community to fill the ranks of our all volunteer department -- no paid personnel respond to any of our calls, just neighbors helping neighbors.

Your firehouse is located at 39 South Centre Avenue. Defender Hose Company No. 1 is celebrating 110 years of service here. It is manned by, yes, your neighbors. Our members include professionals, electricians, plumbers, doctors, lawyers and students, all working together and volunteering for our community.

There are many misconceptions about the fire department. We don’t run into burning buildings foolishly, nor do we need possess superhuman strength and bravery. Our job is accomplished through teamwork. All members are formally trained. We provide all necessary classes, seminars, drills and equipment to personnel free of charge.

In addition to the emergency response aspect of our fire department there is a social portion. We have dinners, barbeques, athletic events and family functions. It’s a great way to meet new people and partake in family orientated events. Lifelong friendships have developed through membership.

Historically our new members have been relatives or friends of members. But perhaps you or someone you know--a neighbor or friend are interested and don’t know who to ask.

We’d like you to stop by and find out more about our company and department. Stop by anytime you see the lights on, but specifically any Thursday night at 8:00 PM or Sunday morning at 9:30 AM