Frequently Asked Questions

Is South Hanover Fire Company a volunteer organization?

Yes, we are a 100% volunteer fire company. All of our firefighters, officers, and support staff are volunteers who live and work in South Hanover Township and the surrounding communities.

What areas do you serve?

We serve all of South Hanover Township, Dauphin County — roughly 11 square miles and more than 7,200 residents. That covers Union Deposit, Hoernerstown, Sand Beach, and Greenbriar, along with the surrounding developments and the stretches of Hershey Road (Route 39) and Union Deposit Road that run through the township.

Our two stations are at 101 Patriot Way, Hershey (Station 47-1) and 7094 Union Deposit Road, Hummelstown (Station 47-2). We also provide mutual aid to neighboring townships when requested.

Are you the same as the Hershey or Hummelstown fire companies?

No. Hershey and Hummelstown each have their own fire companies. Our stations carry Hershey and Hummelstown mailing addresses because those are the post office names for our ZIP codes, but South Hanover Township is its own municipality and we are its fire company — Station 47.

If you are not sure which company covers your address, call us at 717-566-8832 and we will point you to the right one.

How do I report an emergency?

Always dial 911 for any emergency. Calls from South Hanover Township go to Dauphin County 911, which will dispatch us and any other emergency services needed at your location.

Can I call the fire station directly for an emergency?

No, always call 911 for emergencies. Our station phone (717-566-8832) is for non-emergency business only and may not be continuously staffed.

Do you provide ambulance service?

No — we are not a licensed EMS provider and do not operate an ambulance. We provide fire suppression and rescue services. For medical emergencies, call 911 and Dauphin County 911 will dispatch the appropriate ambulance service. Many of our members are certified EMTs or EMRs and assist local EMS providers on scene.

How can I become a volunteer firefighter?

Visit our Join page for information about becoming a volunteer. We provide all necessary training and equipment. You must be at least 18 years old (16 with parental consent for junior members).

Do you offer station tours?

Yes! We welcome groups, schools, and community organizations from around South Hanover Township to tour our station. Please call 717-566-8832 to schedule a tour.

Do you offer CPR training?

Yes! South Hanover Township Volunteer Fire Company offers CPR and First Aid training for individuals, businesses, and community organizations. Our certified instructors provide hands-on training in life-saving techniques. Contact us at cpr@southhanoverfire.org to schedule a class or inquire about upcoming public training sessions.

How is the fire company funded?

We receive some funding from South Hanover Township, but rely heavily on donations from community members and fundraising events to purchase equipment and maintain our stations and apparatus.

Can I make a donation?

Yes! We greatly appreciate community support. Visit our Donations page for information on how to contribute. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

What should I do if I hear the fire sirens?

The sirens alert our volunteers to respond to emergencies. If you hear sirens:

Pull over and allow emergency vehicles to pass
Do not follow emergency vehicles
Avoid the area of the emergency if possible

Do you inspect fire extinguishers or smoke detectors?

We can provide guidance on fire safety equipment during station tours or community events. For fire extinguisher servicing, contact a licensed fire equipment company.

Can you help me get into my locked car or house?

We respond to lock-outs only if there is an emergency situation (such as a child locked in a vehicle on a hot day). For non-emergency lock-outs, contact a locksmith.

Do you conduct fire safety inspections for businesses?

Fire inspections for businesses are typically conducted by the township or state fire marshal's office. Contact South Hanover Township for more information.

How can I get a reflective address sign?

We offer reflective address signs to help emergency services locate your home quickly — they matter most on the township's rural roads and long driveways, where a house number is hard to spot at night. Contact us at 717-566-8832 or visit our reflective signs page for ordering information.