Hartford Fire Department

11/11/2025

11/07/2025

Remembering Wesley W. Black
🕊️ July 7, 1985 – November 7, 2021 🕊️

Today we remember our friend, our brother, and our hero — Sgt. Wesley W. Black — who left us far too soon, four years ago today.

Wesley was a warrior in every sense of the word. A decorated U.S. Army veteran, firefighter, husband, father, and advocate, he lived a life of service, courage, and compassion. Whether in the mountains of Afghanistan, the streets of Hartford, or the halls of the Vermont Statehouse, Wes gave everything he had for others.

Even in the face of a devastating diagnosis, he fought with unmatched strength and grace — not just for himself, but for every veteran who came after him. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the causes he championed, and the love he poured into his family and community.

We miss you every day, Wes. Your fire still burns in all of us. 💛🔥🇺🇸

11/01/2025

🎃 Trunk or Treat 2025! 👻 We had a great turnout and tons of amazing costumes. Thanks to everyone for stopping by!

10/29/2025

On Wednesday, OQS student Indigo got an unforgettable ride to school aboard Hartford’s Engine 2. As part of a contest she won at the public safety open house, Indigo arrived in style aboard a fire truck, complete with lights and a warm welcome from classmates. Thanks to Firefighter Dotter for making this memorable experience possible.

10/28/2025

The Hartford Fire Department recently completed the installation of a new dry hydrant on Valley View Road. This project is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen fire protection in Hartford’s rural areas by improving the availability and accessibility of water for firefighting.

With support from the Vermont Rural Fire Protection Task Force and the Vermont Association of Conservation Districts (VACD), Hartford has developed a comprehensive plan to enhance its rural water supply. Funding for these improvements was made possible through appropriations approved by the Vermont Legislature.

Dry hydrants and other Rural Fire Protection systems are key tools for communities without water mains. A dry hydrant uses a six- to eight-inch pipe connected to a pond or stream capable of supplying 30,000–120,000 gallons of water, even during drought conditions. This system allows fire apparatus to quickly and safely access a reliable water source when it’s needed most.

10/24/2025

Effective at 10:00 AM on October 24, 2025, the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation has rescinded the statewide burn ban that was issued on September 22, 2025.

Fire Wardens may now begin issuing burn permits in accordance with local regulations.

This decision follows recent precipitation and favorable forecasted weather conditions that have reduced fire risk across the state.

All open burning in Hartford requires a permit. Call us to get one! (802) 295-3232

10/22/2025

A big thank you to everyone who joined us at the Public Safety Open House last Saturday!

Families explored the Public Safety Building, met Hartford’s first responders, and enjoyed games, giveaways, and contests. The live fire demonstration was certainly a hit!

10/19/2025

10/16/2025

Join Us for a Town of Hartford Public Safety Open House! 🚒🚓
When: October 18, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: Hartford Public Safety Building, 812 VA Cutoff Rd, White River Junction, VT
Bring the whole family for:
• Station tours
• Touch-a-Truck
• Live Fire Demonstration at 11:30 AM
• Free giveaways
• Games
• Coloring contest for Pre-K to 2nd graders
• Home Escape contest for 3rd–6th graders (win a ride to school in a fire engine!)
• Hartford Police Department staff on site
Meet Hartford’s first responders. Hope to see you there!

10/10/2025

**Update** Crossing is now open

Traffic Alert: The railroad crossing at Nutt Lane and South Main Street is currently not functioning. The railroad company is addressing the issue, and Hartford Fire and Police Departments are on scene.

For questions, please contact dispatch at the non-emergency number: 295-9425. For emergencies, call 911.

10/07/2025

Reminder: There is a statewide burn ban due to drought conditions. Burn permits will not be issued until further notice. The order may be revoked on a statewide basis or on a county-by-county basis, depending upon the fire danger and weather conditions.

10/03/2025

Earlier this week, students from the Hartford Area Career and Technology Center’s Automotive Technology program visited Public Safety mechanic Paul Saucier to learn about his role in keeping our heavily used public safety vehicles running safely. The Town has a long history of partnering with HACTC, including student work-study placements, and we look forward to continuing these valuable opportunities that support education and community service for the young people in our community.