DeSoto County Fire Rescue

05/22/2026

This EMS Week, we want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to the amazing businesses and community partners who helped support our crews throughout the week! 🚑💙

Thank you to Myshelly’s, Rose’ Cafe, Beef O’ Brady’s Arcadia, Publix, The Farm House Coffee, and Dunkin’ Donuts for your generous donations and support of our staff during EMS Week.

A special thank you to DeSoto Memorial Hospital for your annual EMS Week breakfast and thoughtful gifts, and to Advent for stopping by with treats for our crews!

Your kindness and generosity mean so much to the men and women who proudly serve DeSoto County each day. We are incredibly grateful for the support from our community!

🚒🚑💙

05/20/2026

🚒Field Staff of the Week: Lydia Rosario🚒

This week, we are proud to recognize Lydia Rosario, who began her career with DeSoto County Fire Rescue on February 27, 2023, as an EMT. Since then, Lydia has continued to raise the bar in every way—most recently by completing paramedic school and earning her credentials as a Paramedic.

Her battalion officer, Battalion Chief Randy Rumney, shared these words of praise:

“I am proud to supervise Lydia! She consistently displays a level of professionalism, integrity, and compassion that is exemplary. Lydia always volunteers to assist with tasks outside of her required duties. She is highly respected by her peers, and her dedication to her craft has had a positive impact on our agency. I feel that DeSoto County is fortunate to have her serving the community in the manner she does.”

Deputy Chief Sweeting added:

“Lydia is a workhorse. I would love to have her on my shift while still in the field.”

Lydia’s commitment extends beyond the uniform. Her family is incredibly important to her, and she has spoken openly about striving to balance the demands of paramedic school with being present for those she loves. She took the time to regroup, refocus, and find the path that allowed her to excel in both areas—a reflection of her strength and determination.
Today, we celebrate Lydia’s achievements, her service, and her example.

Thank you, Lydia, for the dedication you bring to DeSoto County Fire Rescue and the community you serve.

05/18/2026

05/12/2026

ARE YOU READY? Let's GO!

Our Public Safety team recently completed hands-on training with Charlotte County Public Safety that focused on preparedness, teamwork, and real-world response skills. From scenario-based exercises to critical decision-making, this training helps ensure our team is ready to serve and protect our community every day.
Public safety is more than a job; it’s a purpose.

If you’re looking for a career where you can make a difference, challenge yourself, and be part of something bigger, we want to hear from you.

Interested in joining the field?
Learn more about career opportunities and apply today at www.desotobocc.com/careers

05/12/2026

🚑🔥 Employee Spotlight: Engineer/Paramedic Matt Jarvis 🔥🚑

Engineer/Paramedic Matt Jarvis joined DeSoto County Fire Rescue in 2021 after being encouraged to apply by Engineer/Paramedic Zach Brown while the two attended paramedic school together. Matt says he chose DeSoto because of its small-town atmosphere, while still offering the opportunity to respond to complex and challenging calls.

Matt was drawn to becoming a paramedic because of the intensity, critical thinking, and responsibility that comes with saving lives. Every shift brings new challenges, and he takes pride in being there for our community during some of their toughest moments.

One of the things Matt appreciates most about DCFR is the family atmosphere. “DeSoto feels like one big family,” he says.

Thank you, Matt, for your dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving the citizens of DeSoto County each and every day! And for always bringing a smile to those who come in contact with you. 👨‍🚒

05/10/2026

🌷🌷Happy Mother’s Day from DeSoto County Fire Rescue! 🌷🌷

Today we want to recognize and celebrate all of the incredible mothers in our department and throughout our community.

To the moms working today’s shift we thank you for spending your special day serving others and protecting our community.

From all of us at DeSoto County Fire Rescue, Happy Mother’s Day! 🌸🚒

05/09/2026

Have you ever wondered how we keep track of firefighters on emergency scenes? 🚒🧑‍🚒

One of the most important tools we use is an accountability board. This board helps command staff track who is assigned to each task, where crews are operating, and ensures everyone goes home safely at the end of the call.

In this photo, Battalion Chief Tim Alley is updating the accountability board during an incident. As crews arrive on scene, their assignments and locations are documented so command always has a clear picture of operations and firefighter safety.

From structure fires to large brush fires, accountability is a critical part of every response at DeSoto County Fire Rescue. Safety, communication, and teamwork remain our top priorities on scene.

05/09/2026

🚨 Brush Fire Response 🚨

Today, DeSoto County Fire Rescue responded to a brush fire near the SE DeSoto/Highlands County line that burned approximately 17 acres.

We appreciate the assistance from:
• Highlands County Fire Rescue -1 Brush Truck & 1 Tanker
• Florida Forest Service
• FPL crews

The fire is believed to have originated from corroded power lines in the area.
Incidents like this are a reminder of how quickly fires can spread in dry conditions and how important partnerships are in protecting our communities.

Thank you to all responding personnel for their teamwork and dedication. And of course, Shift A, for their quick response and hard work. 🚒🔥

05/08/2026

🚑 DID YOU KNOW? 🚑

At DeSoto County Fire Rescue, we proudly hire EMT/Fire certified individuals and support them in advancing their careers by putting them through paramedic school while they work for our department.

EMS in a rural community is anything but ordinary. Our crews respond to a wide variety of calls every day. From lift assists and medical emergencies to serious trauma incidents and critical patient care.

Just because we serve a rural community doesn’t mean our citizens receive anything less than “big city” skills and treatment. Our paramedics are highly trained, compassionate professionals committed to bringing advanced emergency care directly to the people of DeSoto County when they need it most.

If you’re looking for a career where you can grow, serve your community, and make a real impact, DeSoto County Fire Rescue may be the place for you. 🔥🚒

Apply at

Learn more about Employment Opportunities on this page.