New Capability Unlocked For Bloomfield Fire Department: BLS Transport

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — The Bloomfield Fire Department recently completed its first Basic Life Support (BLS) transport, marking an important milestone in the township’s efforts to strengthen emergency medical services for residents, officials say.

According to a news release from the township, the department’s expanded role builds on decades of investment in medical readiness.

Since 1995, Bloomfield firefighters have been trained as emergency medical technicians. In 2019, the department began responding to select medical calls. In 2025, the Nutley Fire Department further supported these efforts through the donation of an ambulance, enabling Bloomfield to enhance its emergency response capacity.

With this new capability, the Bloomfield Fire Department will provide BLS transport when Bloomfield EMS units are unavailable – helping to reduce response times and limit the need to request mutual aid from neighboring municipalities, town officials said.

“This first BLS transport is a proud moment for our department and our community,” Fire Chief Lou Venezia said.

“For decades, the Bloomfield Fire Department has invested in EMT training and building our medical response capabilities,” Venezia said. “This new service allows us to provide timely, high-quality care when our residents need it most. By stepping in when Bloomfield EMS is already committed to other calls, we reduce delays, limit the need for outside agencies, and further strengthen the level of service we provide to our community.”

“Our firefighters continue to expand their role in serving the community, and this added capability ensures Bloomfield is better prepared to meet residents’ needs,” Mayor Jenny Mundell agreed.

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