Today the department was pleased to participate in the Riverdale Elementary School Career Day.  Members took Engine 73 to the school and explained the gear and equipment necessary to perform the job of a firefighter.

We were able to answer many questions from the students as well as allowing them to get a firefighters view of what iit is like to ride in a fire engine.  We hope that we have encouraged some of them to pursue that dream that many children have - "I want to be a firefighter when I grow up!"

This past weekend, The Riverdale Fire Department, Incorporated held its 100 Year Anniversary Celebration. The event was held over two days. Which included a casual family day bbq get together at Riverside Park on Friday, May 5th followed by a formal Gala held at Martin’s Crosswinds Saturday evening.

The department started as a group of concerned citizens in the early 1900’s and was officially incorporated on January 27, 1923.  Over the course of 100 years, the department has had many triumphs as well as struggles, but with the dedication of the men and women of the department we always have and will continue to provide service to the citizens of Riverdale Park and the surrounding communities.

 A good time was had by all that attended both functions and along with past members reliving the ‘good old days’, the newer members gained valuable insights into what it truly means to be a Riverdale Volunteer.  The friendships made and spirit of family that was prevalent, touched all in attendance.  

We look forward to our next gathering, and hope you will also.  

Residents and Business Owners of Riverdale Park:

Happy New Year! This year is the Riverdale Fire Department Inc.’s one-hundred-year anniversary. Riverdale volunteers have protected life and property in Riverdale Park, University Park, Hyattsville Arts District, Edmonston, and surrounding areas since 1923. This past year, the department responded to 1,145 calls. The calls for service include medical emergencies, motor vehicle accidents, fire alarms, gas leaks, and structure fires. To ensure the Riverdale Fire Department Inc. continues providing the highest quality fire and emergency medical services to our community, we need your help.

Our apparatus and equipment are aging and needs to be replaced or updated. We rely heavily on community donations to respond to emergencies all over Prince George’s County. Your donation will be used to replace and repair our apparatuses, for training equipment, facility maintenance, and recruiting efforts. If you wish to donate via PayPal, use the QR code on our holiday card or find us @RVFD20738. Checks can be made out to the Riverdale Fire Department Inc. and mailed to the address listed above. After donating, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with your name and address so that we can send you a thank you letter.

The Riverdale Fire Department Inc. consists of 23 active members. We are a dedicated group of volunteers who are responding to a growing number of emergencies. With the continued development of our community and increased traffic, we find the need for our services constantly increasing. If you’re looking for a way to give back to our community, volunteering at the Riverdale Fire Department Inc. is a great way to serve. The sense of accomplishment and fulfillment received from volunteering is beyond words. That is why we dedicate hundreds of hours annually, away from family and friends, uncompensated, to respond to emergencies in our community. No experience is required, and training is provided. If you are interested in joining, use the QR code on our holiday card or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Every dollar you donate helps the Riverdale Fire Department Inc. protect you and your neighbors. You and your donation will play a critical role in helping our community. Once again, the members of the Riverdale Fire Department Inc. would like to thank you for your continued support.

Happy Holidays,

Stephen Lamphier
President

Brian Carpio
Chief

December 23rd, 2022 - Just as crews were finishing up dinner, Engine 73 was alerted on the second alarm of a working apartment fire in the Kentland section of Landover, MD. First Due units arrived with smoke showing from the first floor and the eaves. After extinguishing the fire in the reporting apartment, Smoke conditions were still present.  Further investigation determined that the seat of the fire was located below the first floor but basement access had been sealed off. Crews had to break through the floor to access the basement stairs to extinguish the origin of the fire. Units operated for several hours in below freezing temperatures before returning to service.