The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners along with Fire Chief Jonathan T. Yahr, proudly announced the appointment of nine new full-time paid firefighters and the promotion of four firefighters to lieutenant during a historic reorganization event for Engine Company No. 1 on Thursday, January 23rd, 2025. This significant milestone marks the transition of Engine Company No. 1 from a volunteer fire company to a fully staffed, full-time paid firefighting unit, enhancing fire protection services for the Lakewood community.
This event took place last night at the Engine Company No.1 firehouse located at 119 First Street, which was recently renovated to accommodate the new full-time firefighting company. As part of this transition, Engine 1 and Ladder 5, which relocated from 800 Monmouth Avenue, will now both respond out of this firehouse, strengthening response capabilities in the township’s busiest areas.
The ceremony was attended by local and state officials, family and friends of the Fire Department and of the new hires and those promoted, and members of the local press, who gathered to celebrate this significant step forward for the Lakewood Fire Department and the community it serves.
Engine Company No.1 is the oldest continuously serving volunteer fire company in the township, having begun in 1888. Its transition to a full-time paid company reflects the Fire Departments continued growth and adaptation to meet the increasing demands of fire protection in Lakewood.
The appointments and promotions were officially approved by the Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners at recent meetings, and those selected were formally sworn in during last night’s event.
Of the nine new full-time firefighters, six took their oath of office and will officially begin serving the community within the next few days. Over the past three weeks, these firefighters have been participating in in-service training to prepare for their new roles, and on Sunday, they will begin responding to calls. The remaining three appointees will attend the fire academy for required training before assuming their full-time positions.
New Firefighters Sworn-in:
- Dimitri L. Santos;
- Justin P. Carlsen;
- Tyler Decker;
- Devin N. Angelos;
- Chad S. Butler; and
- Nicholas R. Colalilo.
Firefighters Promoted to Lieutenant:
- Patrick R. Ortiz;
- Daniel Prodoehl;
- John P. Sonner; and
- Kevin W. Brink
In addition to welcoming new firefighters, the Department celebrated the well-earned promotions of four dedicated firefighters to the rank of Lieutenant, recognizing their leadership, experience, and commitment to serving Lakewood.
“The Lakewood Fire Department is constantly learning and adjusting to meet the needs of Lakewood,” said Chief Yahr. “This once sleepy town is now a bustling city with a diverse and vibrant population.”
The Department responds to over 4,500 calls a year in what is now New Jersey’s fourth largest and fastest-growing municipality.
“This is a historic moment for the Lakewood Fire Department,” Chief Yahr continued. “The transition of Engine Company No. 1 to a full-time paid fire company enhances our ability to protect and serve our residents efficiently. We welcome our new firefighters and congratulate our newly promoted lieutenants on their hard-earned achievements.”
The Lakewood Board of Fire Commissioners emphasized the importance of this transition in strengthening fire services across the township. “These appointments and promotions reflect our ongoing commitment to ensuring the highest level of fire protection and emergency response for Lakewood’s residents,” the board stated.
The Lakewood Fire Department thanks the community for its continued support and looks forward to the contributions of its new and newly promoted members as they take on their critical roles in safeguarding the township.
The Lakewood Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners, along with Lakewood Fire Department Fire Chief Jonathan Yahr, continue to seek individuals who have a desire to serve the Lakewood Community. Individuals interested in becoming volunteer firefighters are encouraged to click here.
