City Announces the Return of Kensington Nuisance Fire Task Force

The Philadelphia Office of Public Safety has relaunched the Nuisance Fire Task Force in Kensington to address the rise in rubbish fires during the winter months. Established in 2024, this initiative aims to extinguish fires and connect residents with essential social services. Mayor Cherelle L. Parker highlighted the importance of ensuring safety as temperatures drop, with a goal of improving operations and service delivery. The task force, led by the Office of Public Safety’s Overdose Response Unit, seeks to reduce fire incidents by 20% this season.

It includes staff from Merakey to provide social services, a specialized fire apparatus, and police representatives to maintain safety. This coordinated effort targets both immediate safety concerns and the long-term well-being of the community. The task force operates nightly from 8 p. m. to 4 a.

m. through March 2026, focusing on the 24th and 25th Police Districts. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing community quality of life amid ongoing safety challenges.