Our History

The roots of organized fire protection in Camden, Ohio trace back to 1895, when the Camden Fire Department was established to protect the village and its residents. For over a century, the department served as a volunteer organization, with local citizens stepping forward to answer the call whenever fire threatened their community.

During this era, the department operated with basic equipment and relied heavily on the dedication and courage of its volunteers. As the community grew, so did the need for more structured and professional emergency services.

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, the increasing demand for emergency medical services and the complexity of modern firefighting made it clear that a more unified approach was needed. Communities across the region were recognizing the benefits of combining fire and EMS operations under a single agency to improve response times, resource sharing, and overall emergency preparedness.

In 2002, the Camden Fire Department and Somers Township merged their emergency services to form Camden–Somers Township Fire & EMS. This merger brought together the resources and personnel of both organizations, creating a unified agency capable of providing comprehensive fire and emergency medical services to a broader area.

The newly formed agency expanded its service area to include:

• Village of Camden
• Israel Township
• College Corner
• Somers Township

Following the merger, the department invested in modernizing its equipment and training programs. A significant milestone was the introduction of Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance service, allowing paramedics to provide critical, life-saving interventions in the field.

Key developments during this period included:

• Transition from volunteer-only to a combination of paid staff and volunteer firefighters
• Acquisition of modern firefighting apparatus and ambulances
• Implementation of 24/7/365 staffing to ensure constant readiness
• Expansion of training programs to include hazardous materials response and technical rescue

Camden–Somers Township Fire & EMS operates under the authority of the Village of Camden and Somers Township. The department is led by Fire Chief Chris Crowley, who oversees all fire suppression, EMS, and community outreach operations. Governance is provided by a joint board representing the municipalities served.

The department operates from its main station located at 111 W. Central Ave, Camden, Ohio. The facility houses modern firefighting and EMS apparatus, including pumper engines, tankers, rescue vehicles, and Advanced Life Support ambulances.

Camden–Somers Township Fire & EMS serves a diverse area that includes rural farmland, residential neighborhoods, and small commercial districts. The department plays a vital role in community safety through:

• Fire suppression and prevention
• Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance service
• Public safety education and fire prevention programs
• Community outreach and engagement events

Today, Camden–Somers Township Fire & EMS continues its proud tradition of service, combining over 125 years of heritage with modern capabilities. The department remains committed to protecting lives and property, providing exceptional emergency medical care, and fostering strong relationships with the communities it serves.