The City of Poughkeepsie Fire Department is a fully career staffed department that protects 30,000 people living in an area of 4.78 square miles providing around the clock fire protection. The Officers and firefighters are represented by the IAFF Local 596 and operate out of three fire stations that protect a mix of residential, industrial, and commercial usage. The department responds to almost 5,000 calls for assistance per year. The Fire Department is comprised of Four Divisions.

Administration: headed by the Chief and assisted by a Deputy Chief, the primary responsibility is the administration, formulation, coordination and delivery of fire department services. The duties include supervision and direction of subordinate divisions, long term and strategic planning as well as administering the budget.

Training and Development: Headed by a Captain, this division provides ongoing in-service and field training to all firefighters and officers to insure they are kept up-to-date on the latest in firefighting methods and safety. This division is directly responsible for all academy recruits until completion of field training as well as providing and co-sponsoring training with other area departments and civic groups.

Inspection and Investigation: headed by a Fire Inspector and assisted by a Lieutenant, this division is responsible for issuance of permits, licenses for places of public assembly, and performance of all required fire inspections. This division also investigates the cause and origin of every fire or explosion to determine whether it is suspicious, accidental or intentional in nature. When necessary this division works jointly with the Police Department investigate all arson fires.

Suppression and Protection: On-duty firefighter shifts are headed by a Captain, and assisted by a Lieutenant. They respond to all requests for emergency assistance when dispatched by City of Poughkeepsie E-911.