7 Critical Ways Evesham Fire-Rescue Is Revolutionizing Emergency Services Under Their 2023–2026 Strategic Plan
The Evesham Township Fire Department, officially known as Evesham Fire-Rescue, is not standing still. As of late December 2025, the department is actively executing a comprehensive, multi-year strategy to enhance public safety, modernize operations, and cultivate the next generation of emergency responders in Marlton and surrounding Burlington County, New Jersey. This deep dive into their current initiatives reveals a forward-thinking agency focused on everything from specialized apparatus to crucial youth development programs.
The core of Evesham Fire-Rescue's current and future direction is solidified in their 2023–2026 Strategic Plan. This blueprint guides the department's efforts in maintaining a high standard of fire protection and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for all residents and visitors. From rapid incident response to proactive community education, the department is committed to a tradition of selfless service that is continuously being refined for maximum effectiveness.
Evesham Fire-Rescue: Leadership and Organizational Profile
Evesham Fire-Rescue operates under the authority of the Board of Fire Commissioners, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the direction and effectiveness of the Fire District within Evesham Township.
- Official Name: Evesham Fire-Rescue (Evesham Township Fire District No. 1)
- Location: Evesham Township, Burlington County, New Jersey
- Primary Service Area: Marlton, NJ, and surrounding areas
- Fire Chief: Carl Bittenbender
- Deputy Chief / Fire Marshal: Scott Freedman
- Core Mission: To provide exemplary fire protection and emergency medical services to residents and visitors.
- Key Guiding Document: 2023–2026 Strategic Plan
- Operational Standard: Guided by a "Standard of Cover" document, developed in 2021, which sets performance objectives for emergency response.
The 2023–2026 Strategic Plan: A Blueprint for Tomorrow
The Evesham Fire-Rescue Strategic Plan is more than a document; it is a commitment to continuous improvement across all facets of the department. The plan outlines several key objectives aimed at future-proofing the district's capabilities.
A major focus of the plan is the evaluation of current infrastructure. This includes a review of existing station locations and a deep dive into potential opportunities for shared services with neighboring districts. This analysis ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and that response times remain optimal across the entire township, especially in rapidly developing or remote regions.
Furthermore, the Strategic Plan emphasizes community risk reduction through proactive measures. Initiatives like the "Firewise Communities" program are central to this effort, aiming to prevent the spread of wildfires to homes and allow firefighters critical time to contain incidents.
Specialized Apparatus and Station Deployment
To meet the demands of a diverse service area, Evesham Fire-Rescue maintains a fleet of specialized equipment and strategically deploys its personnel from multiple stations throughout the township. The department's investment in modern apparatus ensures they have the right tools for any emergency, from structure fires and vehicle extrications to medical emergencies.
Key Fire Stations and Their Roles
- Station 221/229 (Marlton): A central hub for fire administration, fire prevention, and emergency response operations.
- Station 225/228 (Kettle Run Station): Located at 498 Hopewell Road, this station is vital for serving the southern region of Evesham Township, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the district.
The Fleet: Specialized Apparatus Entities
The Evesham Fire-Rescue fleet is a testament to its operational readiness, featuring several specialized vehicles:
- Engine 2211 & Engine 2212: Both are 2010 PIERCE ARROW XT pumpers, forming the backbone of the initial fire attack capability.
- Heavy Rescue 2218: A 2019 specialized vehicle used for complex technical rescue operations, including vehicle extrication and structural collapse.
- USAR 22: A dedicated Urban Search and Rescue vehicle, indicating the department's capability to handle large-scale, intricate emergencies.
- Quint 2235: A combination pumper and aerial ladder truck, offering versatility for both water delivery and high-angle access.
- Ambulance 2291, 2292, & 2293: These units provide critical Emergency Medical Services (EMS), highlighting Evesham Fire-Rescue's dual role as a fire and rescue and medical provider.
- Brush 2237: A vehicle designed for fighting brush and wildland fires, particularly important for containing incidents in wooded or open-space areas.
Cultivating the Future: Evesham’s Youth and Training Initiatives
One of the most critical aspects of the department's strategy is its commitment to outreach and recruitment. By investing in youth programs, Evesham Fire-Rescue is actively ensuring a robust pipeline of skilled emergency service professionals for the future.
The 2025 Youth Fire Academy and Auxiliary Programs
The 5-day 2025 Youth Fire Academy is a flagship program designed to give young individuals a hands-on, intensive exposure to the fire service community. This academy-style training covers various aspects of firefighting and rescue, instilling discipline and basic skills.
Beyond the academy, the department offers long-term engagement programs:
- Junior Firefighter and EMT Auxiliary (Ages 14-17): This program introduces young volunteers to the fundamentals of both firefighting and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) work, providing a foundational understanding of the service.
- Explorer Post 226 (Ages 16-18): Explorers receive hands-on training supervised by Evesham Fire-Rescue personnel. Meetings, held twice a month, include field trips to outside agencies, offering a broader view of the emergency services ecosystem.
Recent Incident Response and Safety Focus
Evesham Fire-Rescue’s capabilities were recently demonstrated by their quick and effective response to several incidents in 2024. In July 2024, an early morning fire was successfully contained due to the rapid deployment of firefighters. A separate incident saw firefighters respond to a house fire on Meadowview Circle, and another involved a fire sparked by a struck gas line. These events underscore the constant need for vigilance and the value of the department's high-level training.
In line with their commitment to safety, the department actively participates in the annual National Firefighter Safety Stand Down, ensuring their personnel are up-to-date on the latest safety protocols and best practices. Furthermore, they are a strong proponent of residential fire safety, notably enforcing the requirement for fire extinguishers in all residential occupancies within Evesham Township.
The Evesham Township Fire Department, under the stewardship of Chief Carl Bittenbender and his leadership team, continues to be a dynamic and essential part of the Burlington County community. By focusing on strategic planning, modern equipment, and the development of future responders, Evesham Fire-Rescue is well-prepared to meet the emergency service challenges of today and tomorrow. Their commitment ensures that Marlton remains a safe and protected community well beyond the 2026 horizon.
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