Jersey City Fire Department’s High Rise Training Gains National Praise

The Jersey City Fire Department is enhancing its preparedness for high rise emergencies with an intensive summer training series focused on advanced pumping and hose management techniques. This hands-on program prepares firefighters to respond effectively to fires in tall buildings, reflecting the city’s rapidly growing skyline.

The training recently attracted attention from the City of Miami Fire Department, whose representatives traveled to Jersey City to observe and learn from the program. Deputy Chief Constance Zappella, who leads JCFD’s Division of Training, emphasized the value of collaboration, saying, “This kind of interagency collaboration and knowledge sharing strengthens the fire service as a whole.”

Mayor Steven Fulop highlighted the importance of this training, stating, “This training is not only essential to the safety of our firefighters but also to the residents and workers in Jersey City’s rapidly growing skyline.”

With support from city partners and private entities like 55 Hudson Street, the department created realistic scenarios to prepare crews for the challenges unique to high rise firefighting. The Jersey City Fire Department continues to serve as a model for other agencies nationwide.