City Announces the Return of Kensington Nuisance Fire Task Force
The interagency initiative will continue to combat nuisance fires, clear debris, and connect affected individuals to vital social services during the cold-weather months
PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Office of Public Safety (OPS), the Philadelphia Fire Department (PFD), the Philadelphia Police Department (PPD), and the Office of Clean and Green Initiatives today announced the relaunch of the interagency Nuisance Fire Task Force in Kensington ahead of the 2025-2026 winter months. Established in 2024, this Task Force focuses on extinguishing rubbish fires in Kensington, ensuring safety at the scene, removing debris, and connecting individuals in the area with social service resources. This coordinated approach aims to address both the immediate safety concerns related to rubbish fires and the improved quality of life of the community.
“This autumn has seen a quick onset of cold, which is why we are reinstating additional measures like the Nuisance Fire Task Force to ensure the safety of our residents,” explained Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “This year, our goal is to improve operations and service delivery, enhancing the quality of life for all Philadelphia residents.”
The Nuisance Fire Task Force is led by the Office of Public Safety’s Overdose Response Unit (ORU) and was created in response to the increase in rubbish fires throughout Kensington. These fires pose a serious public safety risk, particularly during cold months. This dedicated task force is designed to address the needs of Kensington residents and those living unhoused, while also supporting first responders with social services and other resources.
“The Philadelphia Fire Department continues to adapt its mission to ensure a safer city for everyone,” says Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson, Philadelphia Fire Department. “Even the smallest ember can lead to a dangerous and destructive fire. We are once again partnering with other City agencies to identify hazards and reduce risks for people in Kensington.”
This year, the City has made improvements to the Task Force by streamlining and centralizing operations. With an emphasis on breaking down silos and implementing new reporting expectations, the Kensington Nuisance Fire Task Force aims to reduce the number of fires in Kensington by 20 percent this season.
The Kensington Nuisance Fire Task Force comprises:
- Staff from Merakey, providing vital social services to connect individuals to shelter or treatment.
- One specialized fire apparatus, a Philadelphia Fire Department Lieutenant or Officer, and two crew members.
- One Compactor truck provided by the Sanitation Department to assist with debris removal.
- A representative from PPD’s East Service Detail to help maintain safety and security.
“Nuisance fires in our communities remain a serious safety concern for both residents and unhoused neighbors in Kensington,” said Adam Geer, Chief Public Safety Director, Office of Public Safety. “The Nuisance Fire Task Force mitigates the danger of fires in our communities while prioritizing the health and well-being of vulnerable residents living on the street and working to restore norms and dignity to the entire community.”
The Kensington Nuisance Fire Task Force operates in the 24th and 25th Police Districts nightly from 8 p.m. until 4 a.m. through March of 2026. For more information about this initiative, contact the Office of Public Safety by emailing jennifer.crandall@phila.gov.