The Swampscott Fire Department's ranks—31 full-time firefighters and officers—are a mix of veterans and relative newcomers. A third of them have 15 or more years experience; a third have between five and 15 years; and a third have less than five years. These firefighters battle fires and respond to other emergencies, inspect homes and buildings, train to sharpen their skills and teach fire safety and prevention. One of these outreach teaching efforts is the SAFE program, which teaches middle school students fire safety and how to properly report emergencies. Department apparatus includes two fire engines, a ladder truck and a rescue boat. Firefighters are organized into four groups. Each group works a 24-hour shift at a time, from 8am to 8am.
