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Office of Research Services

Serving the NIH Community

Services

​​The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Fire Department offers a comprehensive range of emergency services to ensure the safety and well-being of the NIH campus and its occupants. Our services include: 

  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS): The NIH Fire Department is equipped to respond to medical emergencies promptly. We provide critical care and first-aid services, including the assessment, treatment, and transportation of patients to healthcare facilities when necessary. Their skilled EMS personnel are trained to handle a wide range of medical situations. 
  • Fire Suppression: As part of our primary mission, the department is proficient in fire suppression techniques. We have the tools, equipment, and training required to combat fires effectively, limiting damage and ensuring the safety of NIH personnel, property and the citizens of Montgomery County. 
  • Hazardous Materials Response: The NIH Fire Department is prepared to respond to hazardous materials incidents. We have specialized training and equipment to manage chemical, biologi​cal, radiological, and other hazardous material incidents, minimizing the associated risks and mitigating potential harm. 
  • Technical Rescue Response: In situations requiring specialized rescue operations, such as confined space rescues, high-angle rescues, or low-angle rescues, the department is equipped to respond swiftly and efficiently. our firefighters are highly trained to handle complex rescue scenarios. 
  • Specialized Patient Transport for Medical Research: A unique service offered by the NIH Fire Department is the specialized patient transport for medical research purposes. This involves safely transporting patients to the NIH Clinical Center while maintaining the necessary medical care and safety protocols. 

The National Institutes of Health Fire Department plays a vital role in safeguarding the occupants of the NIH campus and Montgomery County residents by offering a wide range of emergency services, including emergency medical care, fire suppression, hazardous materials response, technical rescue operations, and specialized patient transport for medical research purposes. well-trained personnel and specialized equipment ensure a rapid and effective response to a variety of emergencies.​