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For more than a century, firefighters have been a steadfast presence in our Island community, evolving with the times while remaining true to their core mission: protecting life and the place we call home.
Founded in 1902 with humble beginnings, the service has grown from a volunteer-led Parish brigade with basic equipment to a modern, Island-wide professional organisation that responds to more than 1,000 incidents annually. From fighting fires and rescuing individuals in peril to managing hazardous materials and major flooding events, the States of Jersey Fire & Rescue Service has become a cornerstone of public safety in Jersey.
This year marks a significant milestone, as the Service celebrates 75 years since the States of Jersey took over responsibility from the Parish of St Helier in 1950 – a pivotal moment that laid the foundation for the modern, island-wide fire and rescue service we know today.
The official anniversary falls on Saturday, 31 May 2025.
“I’ve worked in every part of the organisation, which has evolved almost beyond recognition, but the core of what we do has not changed. We are here to protect life and the place we call home.”
Chief Fire Officer Paul Brown
Chief Fire Officer Paul Brown, who joined the service over three decades ago, reflects on this evolution with pride and perspective. “I’ve had a 31-year career – I’ve seen a lot of change,” he says. “I’ve worked in every part of the organisation, which has evolved almost beyond recognition, but the core of what we do has not changed. We are here to protect life and the place we call home.”
The history of the SJFRS is punctuated by major incidents that tested the mettle of its crews and shaped the organisation’s identity. From the La Cala fire and dramatic rescues during the flooding of Grands Vaux, to aircraft ditching at sea and fires at Hotel de France and Tunnel Street’s gas holder, each event has added a chapter to its storied past.
Reflecting on his early days, CFO Brown notes, “The incidents which stick out in my mind are from early in my career, because I think your early career does imprint in your mind – the big open land fires. I can recall one in the 1990s which went on for a week.”
Over time, technology, training, and operations have undergone transformative changes. “Today, what we need to consider is so different. What we wear, how we operate has changed, and this tells a story of progress and change,” CFO Brown explains. “Looking through a 2025 lens, the role is more complex – and the equipment and team has to evolve, but the fundamental aspect of responding to fires has not changed. The context we work in, and the complexity has changed.”
Despite these changes, the service remains accessible and responsive. “For the public, the process remains the same; if you have a problem, you can get in touch with us for our help.”
The work of the SJFRS goes beyond emergency response. They actively engage with the community, delivering education and safety programmes in schools and homes, building resilience before disaster strikes. “We get well over 1,000 call outs a year and apart from that, we engage with the community at school and on a home level,” CFO Brown says.
Throughout his career, CFO Brown has been deeply moved by the dedication of his colleagues. “It’s not just a job, it’s a calling. I work with impressive and incredible people. At the time, when you’re tackling a fire, there is a real focus. It’s a very professional, organised effort, with people working together who understand the hazards and are well trained to do their jobs.”
He adds, “We’re a complex organisation doing lots of different things at the same time. We manage complex events on a frequent basis.”
Yet for all the growth and innovation, the spirit of service and community support remains a cornerstone. “We are custodians of the proud history of this institution; it’s not about us; it’s about the contribution we make – we’re just here for a while,” says CFO Brown. “The SJFRS doesn’t work without the people who surround the SJFRS – we’re grateful for the support we get,” he adds, acknowledging the vital role of families and partner agencies.
After 31 years, his sense of purpose has not waned. “Regarding my career, it feels very fleeting. Thirty-one years later – it does not feel like 31 years later,” he says.
Indeed, the legacy of the Jersey Fire and Rescue Service is one of unwavering commitment – to its people, its community, and its enduring mission to serve and protect.
As part of the celebrations marking 75 years since the States of Jersey assumed responsibility for the fire service from the Parish of St Helier, the States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service is opening its doors to the community.
Islanders are invited to Fire HQ at Rouge Bouillon on Saturday 31 May 2025, to honour the Service’s proud history and to take a closer look at firefighting in Jersey.
From 10am to 3pm, visitors can experience a day filled with action-packed live demos.
Highlights include:
- Live action demos, such as rope rescues, RTC (road traffic collision) extractions, and specialist equipment in action
- Inshore rescue boat and dam display
- Aerial ladder platform up close
You can step back in time with a pop-up museum, showcasing the Service’s rich heritage – from the founding of the St Helier Fire Brigade in 1902 to the major incidents that shaped today’s SJFRS.
Firefighters will be on hand to share essential safety tips to help keep homes and families safe, and you’ll also have the chance to meet colleagues from the States of Jersey Police, who work in close partnership with SJFRS during incidents.
Please note: Parking is limited, so visitors are encouraged to walk, cycle, or use public transport where possible.
Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the people, history, and equipment behind the uniform – and to celebrate 75 years of dedication to our island community.
You can find out more about the history of our Island’s Fire and Rescue Service, learn what to do in an emergency, how to stay safe in your home and further details on what we do on the States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service’s dedicated website jerseyfire.je.