New Bedford Fire Department

06/15/2026

Today, I had the privilege of attending our Firefighter Memorial Sunday ceremony and the humbling honor of reading the names of eight members of the New Bedford Fire Department family that we recognized and remembered.

As I called each name, I reflected on the impact these firefighters had on our department and the community they served. Speaking their names before their families, friends, and fellow firefighters is a responsibility that carries tremendous weight and one of the greatest honors of serving as Fire Chief.

Memorial Sunday reminds us that our department is more than stations and apparatus—it is a family built by generations of men and women dedicated to serving others.

I am grateful to have spent the morning with the families, friends, retirees, active members, and elected officials who came together to honor and remember these eight firefighters. Their legacy will not be forgotten.

-Chief Medeiros

06/05/2026

Earlier this week, the New Bedford Fire Department responded to reports of heavy smoke coming from a second-floor window of a multi-family residence at 68 Hathaway St.

Engine 8 and Ladder 4 arrived first on scene, confirming a working fire, with Unit 2 establishing command shortly thereafter. Engine 8 deployed the initial attack line while Engine 9 quickly stretched a second hose line to support fire suppression efforts while simultaneously establishing a water supply for Engine 8.

While crews were conducting firefighting operations, an occupant informed command that a dog remained unaccounted for inside a second-floor apartment. Members of Ladder 4 and Engine 9 conducted a search and successfully located the dog hiding under a bed, and reunited it safely with its owner.

Thanks to the quick actions of responding companies, the fire was placed under control within minutes and extinguished shortly thereafter, minimizing damage to the building.

A total of nine residents were displaced as a result of the fire, along with six dogs and one turtle. The American Red Cross and New Bedford Emergency Management Agency responded to assist the displaced occupants with immediate needs and temporary housing assistance.

Later that day, Haz Mat-1 and Unit 1 responded to 1 Gloria Way in Acushnet to assist the Acushnet Fire Department with a hazardous materials incident near the New Bedford city line.

Upon arrival, crews found that Mike & Mike’s Tree Service had accidentally struck a 500-gallon underground propane tank with skid-steer equipment, shearing off the tank’s pressure relief valve and creating a potentially dangerous propane release.

New Bedford Fire Department personnel assisted the Acushnet FD by conducting atmospheric monitoring of nearby residences and the surrounding area to ensure the safety of residents, workers, and emergency responders.

After several attempts, crews successfully transferred the liquid propane from the damaged tank into a propane service vehicle. Once the product was removed, HM-1, working alongside Acushnet firefighters, assisted in installing a temporary pressure relief valve, eliminating the hazard and bringing the incident to a safe condition conclusion.

This incident highlights the great teamwork by all agencies involved to safely mitigate what could have become a very dangerous situation.

Both incidents highlight the professionalism, training, and dedication demonstrated daily by our members. We are pleased to report that no civilian or firefighter injuries occurred at either incident.

Service Above Self

06/01/2026

Today, members of the New Bedford Fire Department had the honor of attending the funeral services for Boston Firefighter Robert Kilduff.

While departments may wear different patches and serve different communities, the fire service is one family. When a firefighter makes the ultimate sacrifice, we stand together to honor their life, their service, and the commitment they made to protecting others.

Attending services such as these is about more than paying respects. It is a reminder of the bonds that unite firefighters across the Commonwealth and the nation. It is a chance to support a grieving family, stand alongside our brothers and sisters in the Boston Fire Department, and reflect on the sacrifices that come with this profession.

Today, we stood in solidarity, honoring Firefighter Robert “BK”Kilduff’s dedication, courage, and service. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all members of the Boston Fire Department during this difficult time.

Rest easy, Firefighter Kilduff. Your watch is complete. We will never forget your sacrifice.

05/25/2026

05/25/2026

Did you know that nearly 75% of Massachusetts grilling fires each year take place between May and September? As we head toward the unofficial start of summer, most of the state is in significant drought status -- and that raises the outdoor fire risk. Whether you're grilling, camping, or using power equipment, have a fire-safe summer: https://www.mass.gov/news/as-summer-nears-state-fire-marshal-warns-of-outdoor-fire-hazards

05/24/2026

The members of the New Bedford Fire Department extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow firefighters of the Boston Fire Department following the tragic line-of-duty death of one of their members.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Boston Fire Department during this incredibly difficult time. The loss of a firefighter in the line of duty is felt throughout the fire service, and today we stand united in mourning a brother who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community.

May his sacrifice never be forgotten.

05/24/2026