Task Force will focus on extinguishing rubbish fires in Kensington area, maintaining safety on the scene, removing debris & connecting individuals with social services 

 

PHILADELPHIA – Parker Administration officials today during a press conference discussed fire safety in Philadelphia neighborhoods, and particularly how the City is addressing nuisance fires in the Kensington area through the newly launched interagency Nuisance Fire Task Force. The Task Force, which launched on Monday, November 18 in the 24th and 25th Police Districts will operate nightly from 8:00 p.m. until 4:00 a.m. and will operate through March 2025.

The City’s Office of Public Safety (OPS) alongside the Managing Director’s Office, the Philadelphia Fire Department, Philadelphia Police Department, the Department of Sanitation, and the Office of Clean and Green Initiatives also discussed how the focus of the Task Force will be on:

  • Extinguishing rubbish fires in the Kensington area,
  • Maintaining safety on the scene,
  • Removing debris, and
  • Connecting individuals in the area with social service resources.
This coordinated approach aims to address both the immediate safety concerns and the underlying needs of the community due to current and forecasted weather conditions. Philadelphia, like other cities and towns across the Northeast, is currently experiencing a heightened risk for fire due to a combination of dry conditions, low humidity, strong winds, and higher temperatures.

“We haven’t seen substantial rain in over 50 days. That’s why we need additional measures like the Nuisance Fire Task Force to continue to keep residents safe,” explained Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This is just one of the many innovative ways we are finding to address quality of life concerns, and I am confident that our City’s operational leadership will continue to make improvements that residents can see, touch, and feel.”

“This dedicated task force serves to address the residential needs of both housed and unhoused people residing in the Kensington area. Rubbish fires pose a serious public safety risk. These fires are especially concerning in this moment due to Philadelphia’s ongoing drought, which increases the risk of fires spreading more rapidly,” said Adam Thiel, Managing Director. “The creation of this task force provides a fast, safe, and skilled response to illegal fires, which were previously extinguished by both police patrolling the area and the Fire Department when dispatched.”

“We have seen an unprecedented number of rubbish and brush fires this year. Lack of rain, dry leaves and branches, and the wind have created the perfect conditions for fires. Even an ember from a cigarette could have devastating consequences,” said Jeffrey Thompson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Fire Department. “The Philadelphia Fire Department intends to continue providing dedicated service 24x7x365. We have allocated additional resources and are working with city partners to help support a safer Kensington for all who call this neighborhood home.”

The Task Force comprises:

  • One fire specialized apparatus,
  • A representative from East Service Detail,
  • A Philadelphia Fire Department officer and two firefighters,
  • One compactor truck,
  • Three crew to support with overnight task force, and
  • Staffing from Merakey who will be on call to provide vital social services connecting individuals to shelter and/or treatment.

“Nuisance fires in our communities are a growing safety concern for our Kensington residents and unhoused neighbors,” said Adam Geer, Chief Public Safety Director, Office of Public Safety. “The Nuisance Fire Taskforce contains the danger of fires in our communities, while prioritizing the health and well-being of vulnerable residents living on the street.”

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