The Fire Rescue Division is the single largest division in the Arlington Fire Department (AFD) and is comprised of the resources typically associated with fire department emergency service delivery and operations. Fire Rescue Division consists of 17 fire stations working on a three shift system designated as A, B and C shifts. Each shift works on a rotating basis of 24 hours on and 48 hours off. The City of Arlington is divided into three Battalions. Each Battalion is managed by a Division Chief or Battalion Chief who oversees the day-to-day activities, responds to major incidents, and works to facilitate concurrent activities to support the leadership of the organization. Minimum staffing for AFD Engines and Aerial Trucks is typically three to four personnel, and 2 staffed on the two Light Rescue Vehicles (Squads).

All Fire Rescue members are certified to at least to the Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) level, while approximately half the personnel are EMT-Paramedics. The Fire Rescue Division provides advanced life support medical care in association with American Medical Response, which staffs the ambulances within the city.

Fire Rescue members are certified in a variety of disciplines, including Structural Firefighting, Aerial Operator, Driver/Pump Operator, Fire Instructor and Advanced Fire Officer. In addition, Fire Rescue also offers Special Operations disciplines to include Hazmat Technician, Confined Space Rescue, Swiftwater Rescue, Dive, High Angle Rescue, Trench Rescue, ARFF (Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting) and TIFMAS (Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System).