Get To Know MFRD
Melrose Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. was providing fire service to the citizens of this area many years ago. Today, MFRD provides fire and EMT services primarily to Alachua County through a contract, and to Putnam County as well. In addition, MFRD answers calls for mutual aid to Bradford County and Clay County on a routine basis due to our geographical location in the “four corners”.
Melrose has a fleet of eight fire apparatus:
- Engine 242 – 1998 Class A pumper 1500gpm pump/750 gallons
- Engine 241 – 2000 Class A pumper 4-wheel drive 1000gpm pump/1000 gallons
- Tanker 243 – 2000 Freightliner that carries 2700 gallons of water
- Squad 247 – 2012 4WD Ford F550 with 500gpm pump/ 350 gallons
- Brush 244 – 2005 4WD Ford F550 with 500gpm pump/350 gallons of water
- Utility 249 – 2002 Chevy 2500 4-wheel drive with 100 gallons of water and small pony pump; also carries a breathing air cascade
- Marine 249 – Avon SR4 Inflatable ribbed boat with trailer for water rescue; has a 55 hp outboard motor
- District 24 drives a 2007 4WD Jeep Liberty used for command and training use
This equipment is operated by a crew of two firefighter/EMT’s 24 hours a day, and supplemented by a roster of over 35 trained volunteers. The operations of the department are led by the Fire Chief and there is one Captain and one Lieutenant. The business of the department is run by a board of directors with offices of President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Chief, and 10 members of the community.
MFRD runs an average of 900-1000 calls per year in four counties out of one station strategically located on the Alachua/Putnam County line.
Melrose Fire Rescue Department maintains an ISO PPC rating of 4/4X and is certified by the State of Florida to meet all recommended safety requirements.
Members are trained in emergency driving courses, wildland firefighting, structural firefighting, marine rescue, hazardous materials, technical rescue, animal rescue, and emergency medical services.