The City of Philadelphia will relaunch the Kensington Nuisance Fire Task Force. This interagency group will address nuisance fires, remove debris, and connect people to social services during the upcoming winter. The task force was first created in 2024 and includes the Office of Public Safety, the Philadelphia Fire Department, the Philadelphia Police Department, and the Office of Clean and Green Initiatives.
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker said the task force is returning to help keep residents safe, especially as rubbish fires have increased in Kensington. The task force is led by the Overdose Response Unit and will focus on fire hazards and the needs of people experiencing homelessness.
Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson said the department is working to keep the city safe and that small fires can become dangerous. The task force will identify hazards, lower risks, and support first responders with more resources…