Fargo Fire Department Sees Slight Increase in Calls in 2025

The department responded to over 14,500 calls, with medical emergencies making up 60% of the total.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:42am

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An abstract, out-of-focus image of the blurred silhouette of a fire engine rushing down a city street, with only the flashing lights and a sense of motion and urgency conveyed through the soft, warm pools of color and light.As emergency call volumes rise in Fargo, the fire department works to quickly respond and minimize property damage and civilian harm.Fargo Today

The Fargo Fire Department responded to 14,592 calls for service in 2025, a slight increase from the 13,485 calls in 2021. While call volumes have been steady over the past three years, the department has seen a gradual uptick. Medical emergencies made up around 60% of the total calls, with the fire department arriving first on the scene 55% of the time. The department also responded to 224 fires in 2025, with the top causes being unintentional, undetermined, and equipment failure. Civilian injuries were up slightly but deaths remained low compared to previous years, and total property loss topped $3.9 million for the second straight year.

Why it matters

The Fargo Fire Department's call volume and response data provides insights into the evolving needs of the community and the department's ability to effectively serve residents. As the city grows, understanding trends in emergency calls, fire causes, and property loss can help the department allocate resources, identify areas for improvement, and ensure public safety.

The details

In 2025, the Fargo Fire Department responded to 14,592 calls for service, up from 13,485 calls in 2021. Fire Chief Gary Lorenz noted the increase has been 'fairly steady' over the past three years, with medical emergencies making up around 60% of the total calls. The department arrived first on the scene for 55% of EMS calls. Of the 224 fires the department responded to, 124 were unintentionally set, 43 had an undetermined cause, 36 were due to equipment failure, and 21 were intentionally set. The top three fire types were building (97), passenger vehicles (35), and dumpsters (31). Civilian injuries were up slightly in 2025 compared to recent years, with 6 reported, but fire-related deaths remained low at 1. Total property loss topped $3.9 million for the second straight year.

  • In 2025, the Fargo Fire Department responded to 14,592 calls for service.
  • In 2021, the department responded to 13,485 calls for service.

The players

Fargo Fire Department

The municipal fire department serving the city of Fargo, North Dakota.

Gary Lorenz

The fire chief of the Fargo Fire Department.

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What they’re saying

“'For the last three years, it's been fairly steady with just a slight increase. There has not been a drastic increase in calls, but they are steadily increasing.'”

— Gary Lorenz, Fire Chief

What’s next

The Fargo Fire Department will continue to monitor call volume and response times to ensure they are adequately staffed and equipped to meet the community's evolving needs. The department will also focus on fire prevention efforts through building inspections and public education.

The takeaway

The Fargo Fire Department's data shows a gradual increase in emergency calls, with medical incidents remaining the most common type. While property loss has been high in recent years, the department has maintained effective response times and relatively low civilian casualties. This highlights the department's commitment to public safety and the need for continued investment in fire and EMS services as Fargo's population grows.