In all, the department is responsible for 21 square miles (54 km2) with a population of 261,940 residents, which makes it the second largest city in NJ, behind Newark.

[citation needed] The department is part of the Metro USAR Strike Team, which consists of nine North Jersey fire departments and other emergency services divisions working to address major emergency rescue situations.

[5] Thirty citizens signed up and on September 21, 1829, the Liberty Engine Company No.

[6] Among the first responders who perished on that day was Fire Department of Jersey City dispatcher Joseph Lovero, who was hit by a piece of debris.

[7] Engine 18 Throughout the JCFD's history, several fire companies have been disbanded due to budget cuts to the department and reorganization.