Clifton Fire Department

08/08/2026

Today, August 8, the Clifton Fire Department remembers Lieutenant John P. Van Dorn Jr.
On this day in 2020, Lieutenant Van Dorn passed away from a 9/11-related illness stemming from his service at the World Trade Center following the attacks of September 11, 2001.
John was a lifelong Clifton resident who first served the City of Clifton as a police officer before joining the Clifton Fire Department in 1981. During his 27 years with the Fire Department, he proudly served the citizens of Clifton and rose to the rank of Lieutenant. He retired from the department in 2009.
Just days after the attacks on September 11, 2001, John voluntarily responded to the World Trade Center on September 13 to assist in the rescue and recovery efforts. The health consequences of that service ultimately claimed his life nearly two decades later.
John was a dedicated firefighter, a loving father, and a respected member of the Clifton Fire Department family. In 2022, his name was added to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Memorial Wall in Emmitsburg, Maryland, recognizing him among those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others.
Today, we remember Lieutenant John P. Van Dorn Jr., his service to Clifton, his commitment to his fellow firefighters, and his willingness to answer the call when his country and fellow Americans needed him most.
Rest easy, Lieutenant. We will never forget.
🚒 Clifton Fire Department
🇺🇸 September 11, 2001 — Never Forget

08/05/2026

Today, the Clifton Fire Department honors the memory of Firefighter Arthur McPartland, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty on August 5, 1948.

Firefighter McPartland served the City of Clifton for more than 18 years after joining the department on March 3, 1930. On August 5, 1948, he responded with Engine Company No. 1 to a reported rubbish fire beneath the Erie Railroad viaduct on Piaget Avenue. While helping to stretch hose down a steep embankment, Firefighter McPartland suffered a fatal heart attack. Despite the immediate efforts of fellow firefighters, police officers, and medical personnel, he could not be revived. He was 56 years old.

A World War I veteran, Firefighter McPartland dedicated his life to serving both his country and the residents of Clifton. His courage, commitment, and sacrifice remain an enduring part of our department's history and traditions.

Today, we remember Firefighter Arthur McPartland, honor his service, and reaffirm that his sacrifice will never be forgotten.

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." – John 15:13

Please join us in remembering one of Clifton's fallen heroes.

05/14/2026

The members of the Clifton Fire Department are saddened to learn of the passing of Councilman Bill Gibson.
Councilman Gibson dedicated many years of service to the City of Clifton and was a strong supporter of our community and its first responders. His commitment to the residents of Clifton and his willingness to always lend a hand will not be forgotten.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him during his years of public service.
Rest in peace, Councilman Gibson. Thank you for your dedication to the City of Clifton.

05/09/2026

Today, the Clifton Fire Department proudly remembers Alberto Tirado, who made the ultimate sacrifice 25 years ago.
Thanks to the continued dedication of the brothers and sisters of the Passaic Fire Department, Firefighter Tirado’s memory and sacrifice continue to be honored year after year.
His legacy of courage, service, and commitment lives on not only within the Passaic Fire Department, but here in Clifton as well, through a proud continuation of his family’s service to the fire profession and the community.
Today, we remember Firefighter Tirado, honor his sacrifice, and keep his family, friends, and our brothers and sisters in Passaic in our thoughts and prayers.

03/20/2026

After 21 years of dedicated service, the Clifton Fire Department proudly recognizes the retirement of Firefighter Neuberger.
Throughout his career, FF Neuberger exemplified professionalism, reliability, and commitment to the residents of Clifton. Whether responding to emergencies, supporting his fellow firefighters, or serving the community day in and day out, he consistently answered the call with pride and integrity.
Twenty-one years in the fire service is no small accomplishment. It represents countless calls, long nights, missed holidays, and an unwavering dedication to protecting others. His contributions have made a lasting impact on this department and the community we serve.
We thank FF Neuberger for his service, his sacrifice, and his brotherhood. He leaves behind a strong legacy and big shoes to fill.
On behalf of the entire Clifton Fire Department, we wish him a healthy, happy, and well-deserved retirement.

03/17/2026

The Clifton Fire Department would like to extend our sincere thanks to local resident Joel Matalon of Joe Fitness World for his generous donation of fitness equipment to Fire Stations 5 and 6.

This contribution directly supports the health, wellness, and operational readiness of our firefighters. Maintaining peak physical condition is essential to performing the demanding duties required to protect and serve our community, and this equipment will play a key role in helping our members stay prepared while reducing the risk of injury.

We are grateful for the continued support from community partners like Joel, who recognize the importance of investing in those who serve.

Thank you for your generosity and commitment to the Clifton community.

03/14/2026

Clifton units operating at a structure fire on Donald St. 2-13-26

02/23/2026

Clearing hydrants saves lives!

02/23/2026