Perryopolis, PA 15473
"Proudly serving the community since 1926." The first fire department in Perryopolis was organized in 1912. In 1914 the department purchased two chemical carts with attached hose reels. Residents' interest in the fire department was vital because of the limited number of services the department was able to render to the town. In 1922 a fire broke out in the Stickel building, just off the town square. The fire threatened the entire Perryopolis town center. Citizens rallied to keep the fire under control until equipment arrived from Fayette City, Belle Vernon, and Smithton Fire departments. Immediately after this disaster the Perryopolis board of trade met and decided that the town needed modern fire protection. The current fire department was finally organized in 1926. The infant department was guided by influence of the Connellsville and Uniontown Fire Departments. Later the Perry Township Volunteer Fire Department Relief Association was organized. Progress establishing the department was slow. But in 1927, the department purchased its first fire truck. The truck, a pumper, was built in Rochester, New York by the Buffalo Fire Equipment Company. A photo of the truck is in the Retired Apparatus photo album. Today the fire department is located at 206 Liberty Street in Perryopolis. The station consists of modernized apparatus bays, offices, and a large social hall. Staffed by some 25 dedicated volunteers, the Perry Township Fire Department responds to more than 250 incidents each year. In 2025, the department responded to 265 alarms. The fire department maintains state-of-the-art apparatus and equipment to serve the needs of the community. The department's current apparatus consists of: a 2002 American La France Eagle rescue pumper (R32), a 2012 Pierce Saber pumper (E32-12), a 2025 Pierce Saber Pumper (E32-15), and a Polaris 6x6 ATV (32 Special Services). Other equipment that the department is proud to provide to the community includes two Hurst Tools, commonly known as the Jaws of Life, Hurst Air Bags, Positive Pressure Fans, Gas Detection Meters, more than a dozen MSA breathing apparatus, and three thermal imaging cameras. Photos in the Current Apparatus album show each truck with a description of equipment carried. A five-member executive officers board and three trustees govern the fire department. Emergency operations are handled by the following line officers: Chief Andrew J. Boni, Deputy Chief - Adam Nicholls, Assistant Chief - Barry Shoaf, Captain - Jacob Shoaf, 1st Lieutenant - Adam Kosport, and 2nd Lieutenant - Josh Timko. Department members work endlessly on many different fundraisers to raise money to help with everyday expenses and equipment upgrades to provide the best service to the community. without the continued support of the township and the borough residents and township supervisors and borough council, it would be impossible to provide for the community and for that we thank you.
