Roswell Fire Department: A Beacon of Excellence in Service and Safety
The City of Roswell, Georgia, boasts a fire department renowned for its unwavering dedication to protecting the community and advancing excellence in training, education, and innovation. With a long-standing tradition of service, the Roswell Fire Department (RFD) exemplifies the principles of public safety and community resilience.
A Tradition of Service
The RFD serves over 90,000 residents, responding to a variety of emergencies, including structure fires, medical crises, and natural disasters. Its strategically located fire stations ensure rapid response times, while a highly trained team of firefighters and EMTs works diligently to safeguard lives and property.
Under Fire Chief Joe Pennino’s leadership, the department emphasizes professionalism, continuous learning, and active community engagement. Beyond emergency response, the RFD focuses on proactive measures like fire prevention programs, public education initiatives, and comprehensive training designed to keep both the department and the community prepared for any crisis.
Recognizing Leadership Excellence
In 2024, the RFD received statewide recognition as two of its members earned honors from the Georgia State Firefighters Association (GSFA). Battalion Chief Jason Patterson and Captain Chad Miller were celebrated for their exceptional contributions to fire service, solidifying Roswell’s reputation for leadership and innovation.
Battalion Chief Jason Patterson: State of Georgia Instructor of the Year
Chief Patterson has set a new standard for training at the RFD, revolutionizing its programs to ensure readiness for any challenge. As Chief of Training, he created a multi-week orientation program for new team members that focuses on fireground operations, emergency medical services (EMS), and leadership.
Patterson’s implementation of the Blue Card Incident Command System has improved safety and inter-agency coordination during critical multi-agency responses. His efforts have doubled the department’s training hours, fostering a culture of operational excellence and preparedness. Recognized as the State of Georgia Instructor of the Year, Patterson’s commitment empowers firefighters with the skills needed to excel in their roles.
Captain Chad Miller: State of Georgia Educator of the Year
Captain Miller’s dedication to fire safety education has profoundly impacted Roswell’s residents. Leading the City of Roswell’s Citizens Fire Academy, a 10-week program offering hands-on fire safety training and department insights, Miller ensures community members are informed and prepared.
Miller’s outreach initiatives extend to schools, senior centers, and public events, making fire safety education accessible and engaging for all age groups. His contributions to the City of Roswell Enrichment Academy (CORE) further enhance community awareness of fire prevention. Recognized as the State of Georgia Educator of the Year, Miller demonstrates the vital role education plays in saving lives.
Building a Safer Roswell
The achievements of Chief Patterson and Captain Miller highlight the RFD’s broader mission to protect, educate, and inspire.
The department actively fosters partnerships with residents and local organizations through initiatives such as smoke alarm installation drives, school fire safety demonstrations, and senior safety workshops to ensure that Roswell’s residents are well-equipped to prevent and respond to emergencies.
Looking Ahead
The RFD’s commitment to innovation and excellence positions it to meet the demands of a growing city. Leaders like Chief Patterson and Captain Miller inspire their colleagues and the community they serve, reinforcing Roswell’s standing as a safe and thriving place to live and work. They and the entire department remain steadfast in the mission to protect and serve with integrity and resilience that ensures its legacy of excellence will continue for generations to come.
For a city that values safety and community, the RFD is more than just a department—it is a source of pride and a testament to the strength of public service.