The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) proudly celebrates
its 50th anniversary in
2024, marking five decades of dedicated service. Established at midnight on October 1, 1974, from a
consolidation of volunteer fire units, SCFD has evolved into a leading fire and emergency service
provider. Over the years, the Department’s achievements include the creation of hazardous materials and
dive teams, the implementation of advanced life support, and earning an Insurance Services Office (ISO)
1 rating. This anniversary commemorates a legacy of innovation, safety, and commitment to the community.
The Beginning | 1974
From volunteer departments
to countywide protection,
the Seminole County Fire
Department (SCFD) began
operations at midnight on
October 1, 1974.
First Major Apparatus
Purchase | 1976
Five Mack pumpers expanded
firefighting capacity across
Seminole County.
Dive Team Creation | 1976
The SCFD Dive Team formed
to respond to water rescues in
the County’s interconnected
waterways that contribute to
its diverse ecosystem.
Partnerships with Local
Fire Departments | 1976
SCFD enters into its first
response agreement with
the Altamonte Springs Fire
Department, soon
followed by Longwood.
Hazardous Materials
Team | 1980
SCFD establishes its Hazardous
Materials Team, ready to respond
to chemical emergencies.
Enhanced 911
System | 1984
Countywide Enhanced
911 improves emergency
response times.
Advanced Life Support | 1984
SCFD begins providing Advanced
Life Support (ALS) services,
elevating patient care.
ISO-4 Rating
Achievement | 1989
The department improved
its ISO rating to 4, increasing
insurance savings and safety.
Fire Station
Expansions | 1990
Several temporary stations were replaced
with modern facilities, enhancing coverage.
Hurricane Tornado
Response | 1998
SCFD led recovery efforts after
tornadoes devastated parts of
Seminole County.
USAR Task Force 4 Forms | 2003
Seminole County, Orange County, and the City of Orlando join to create Florida Urban
Search and Rescue Task Force 4.
Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Jeanne Responses | 2004
SCFD assists residents and businesses in recovering from three hurricanes that hit
Central Florida, causing millions of dollars in damage.
ISO-1 Status | 2022
SCFD reached the top tier of fire protection,
becoming one of the nation’s best
with an ISO-1 rating.
