The aim in reclassifying the structure of the Office of the Fire Chief was to eliminate the bureaucratic scalar model, improve response to internal & external needs and increase the Cherry Hill Fire Department's ability to coordinate its' various Units to a more integrated, goal-serving orientation. Close synchronization between these individuals along with direct leadership by the Chief of the Department ensures the appropriate level of coordination throughout the organization
 The Office of the Fire Chief is charged with planning for known and unknown factors and at the same time must set the tone for action, those efforts that bring a safe and effective conclusion. These tenets apply to the administration, management and operation of your fire and emergency medical services.
From our perspective, effective planning provides a well thought approach that is achievable by the men and women of the department. Planning also provides us with the information we require to deliver a cost effective service for the challenges our community faces. Conversely we must always caution ourselves to avoid the planning paralysis that slows many governmental agencies. Our residents and our mission require a responsive organization that can take advantage of opportunities and identify risk factors that require a change in direction. We continuously work to hone our skills in planning for the best use of your fire and life safety resources and to demonstrate through action the services that allow our team to save lives, property and to protect the environment
Few people in the world carry the responsibility of having to execute successfully and completely every time they are called to work. We respond to over 12,000 calls for service in a given year and many other direct public contacts of a non-emergency nature. Those who have the opportunity to watch our firefighters and Emergency Medical Service people work can see the dedication and professionalism from a distance. Imagine how proud we are to work by their side everyday.
Additionally, the responsibility of a local fire department to the community's needs is changing across the country. We see our role in the community expanding at an exponential rate in order to meet changing expectations and the normal demands that occur within a large township surrounding a major city. For example, the aging baby boomer generation will add a 5% increase in medical-related emergencies each year. We handle every possible emergency from the threat of Anthrax to a child locked in a car, from threatening weather to teaching our children home and school safety. We respond when you call. And let's not forget about the most feared element we know—FIRE. When tragedy strikes, seconds make the difference between life and death, a total loss, or minor damage. Count on our dedicated men and women to take every action possible to save you and your loved ones from the sad consequences that remain in a fire's wake.
The Emergency Medical Services system in Cherry Hill continuously demonstrates their skill and ability. We are actively pursuing improvements to the existing pre-hospital care system in New Jersey and are committed to working with State officials to design the new system. In recent years, we have expanded our ability to serve you taking advantage of technology to provide the Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics with clinical assessment and treatment tools to provide a critical advantage in life-threatening incidents. An example would be the deployment of patient monitoring devices that identify those suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, a condition often called “the silent killer.” These devices provide early critical assessment information that guides treatment decisions and greatly improves outcomes for some of our most vulnerable patients, including children and the elderly.
Coupled with getting our message out, we continue to explore every opportunity to offset our reliance on tax dollars. By participating in joint initiatives with other township entities, entering into inter-local agreements with public agencies—state and local, and venturing into partnerships with private industry, the Office of the Chief is seeking every method to providing better service in a more efficient manner.
Cherry Hill Firefighters - "SERVING BEYOND THE OATH"
You can reach the Office of the Fire Chief at 856-795-9805.
| 
