The Old Lyme Fire Department was organized in 1923 to provide fire protection to the citizens of Old Lyme and to aid other area departments as conditions may demand. The department is composed of trained volunteer firefighters who respond to over three hundred emergency situations in Old Lyme and neighboring communities each year.
Funding, provided by the Town of Old Lyme, is used for training of personnel, purchasing and maintaining equipment and maintenance of three fire stations. Firefighting and rescue needs • change as our community grows. Equipment must be upgraded and enhanced to meet the challenges that are placed before us. Monies received from private donations and the annual "Fireman's Fund" drive are used to supplement town funding by purchasing additional equipment, uniforms and supporting other departmental activities.
The Old Lyme Fire Department operates three fire stations Lyme Street, Cross Lane and Boughton Road. Fire apparatus consists of four attack engine-tanks, one rescue truck, one forestry unit, two tankers, one supply pumper, and two Zodiac rescue boats.
An on-going in-house training program is conducted by the training officers of the Old Lyme Fire Department. Outside instructors are employed when necessary and members are encouraged to attend federal, state, and local training sessions.
The fire department, like many other agencies, must adhere to mandates governing training requirements, physical abilities, equipment standards and maintenance, and annual testing programs.
The Old Lyme Fire Department is directed by elected executive and line officers who operate under department by-laws and standard operating procedures. Regular monthly membership meetings are held to conduct department business.