Israel's Fire & Rescue Services is faced with over 100,000 emergency calls annually, and provides vital services, saving and protecting lives and property in the face of ever-increasing challenges. From terrorist attacks and hazardous materials incidents to fires and accidents, first responders help save lives and support the resilience of the civil population in Israel.

Jewish National Fund meets the challenge of outfitting Israel’s firefighters with the state-of-the-art equipment, vehicles, and facilities they need to continue performing their job of protecting Israel’s citizens. In partnership with the Israeli Fire Commissioners Office, JNF has supplied underfunded fire departments across Israel with urgently needed equipment and fire trucks. This support proves vital during times of calm and in times of conflict, when firefighters are called upon to respond to routine emergencies as well as rocket and terror attacks. Over the years, JNF donors continue to purchase fire trucks (over 150 to date), build fire stations, and fund the purchase of life-saving equipment and protective gear.

The standard fire truck of the Israeli Fire & Rescue Services is equipped for all types of emergencies—from fires in urban and industrial areas to car accidents and building collapses. It is outfitted with a rooftop water cannon and specialized rescue equipment. One-third of the cost of each fire truck is dedicated through JNF; the remaining cost is funded by the Israeli government. Israel needs an additional 550 new fire trucks to get its entire fleet up-to-date and meet the demands of its growing population.

Also essential to the protection and safety of Israel's firefighters and the citizens they protect are well-equipped fire stations. Fire stations provide centralized locations to receive emergency calls, dispatch firefighters, and house fire and rescue equipment, allowing for quicker response time to emergency events. One hundred new fire stations, each at a cost of $500,000, are needed to provide proper coverage to all regions in Israel. Every fire station makes a difference and saves lives every day.