Fire FAQ

• What is the service area of Salem?

The Town of Salem is approximately twenty-six (26) square miles.  Salem's residential population is nearly 30,000 persons but our daytime population is estimated to exceed 80,000 persons.

How many fire stations are there in Salem?

Salem Fire Department operates out of three (3) fire stations and maintains a minimum on-duty shift strength of fifteen persons.   

• Can I burn brush in Salem?

Burning brush in Salem is allowed following strict rules.  A permit is required per NH RSA 227-L:7, and must be obtained at Fire Department Headquarters at 152 Main Street prior to any open burning.  Ordinarily you may burn between the hours of 1700 hours (5 pm) and 2400 hours (midnight).  If it's raining or there's snow covering the ground, you may burn during daylight hours.  A fire permit is free and may be issued anytime.  Certain restrictions do apply - see a fire officer at Headquarters for details.

• Are fireworks allowed in Salem?

  No.  The use, sale, distribution, or possession of fireworks are prohibited in Salem at all times.

• How can I obtain a copy of a fire or ambulance report?

  You may call the Administrative Assistant Betty Oldeman at (603) 890-2200 to receive information regarding reports, or see the available online information.

• Can I review the history of a property in the Fire Department files?

  You may conduct a file review by scheduling an appointment with the Records Clerk Debra Scafidi. Call (603) 890-2209 for further information.

• How do I enter a career in the Fire Service?

Firefighting is one of the most hazardous occupations in the United States.  We recommend becoming familiar with the various careers within the fire service, including becoming a firefighter, paramedic, hazardous material technician, fire prevention inspector, arson investigator, and fire alarm operator.

The New Hampshire Fire Academy, located at 222 Sheep Davis Road (Concord) holds entry-level written and physical ability testing annually. Anyone interested in becoming a firefighter on our department must contact the NHFA and make application to participate in their testing process.  The NHFA will forward to the Salem Fire Department a roster of successful applicants.

From this roster, we may invite selected candidates to participate in our oral board.  If a candidate successfully completes this process (oral board and Chief's interview), he or she may be placed on an eligibility list. This list is generally good for one year.

The Town of Salem is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages members of both genders and all ethnic backgrounds to apply.