South Trail Fire Protection & Rescue Service District

05/29/2026

South Trail Fire & Rescue Squad 63 responded to a fully involved vehicle fire on Michael G. Rippe Parkway between Briarcliff Road and Six Mile Cypress Parkway.
The roadway was temporarily closed to provide firefighters with a safe work area for rapid fire suppression operations while crews extinguished the flames. No injuries were reported.

Safety Reminder: If your vehicle shows signs of smoke or fire, immediately pull over safely, turn off the engine, move everyone far away from the vehicle, and call 911 immediately. Vehicle fires can spread rapidly, produce toxic smoke. Never attempt to open the hood of a vehicle that is on fire.

05/27/2026

Burn bans have been lifted and South Trail Fire & Rescue encourages residents and visitors to use caution while resuming any burning activities. Please continue practicing fire safety and stay aware of local conditions.

05/26/2026

South Trail Fire & Rescue firefighters completed the Murph Challenge at CrossFit Salvation in honor of the military members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 🇺🇸

The Murph Challenge is a workout named after Navy SEAL Lt. Michael P. Murphy and traditionally includes a 1-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats, and another 1-mile run, all while wearing a weighted vest or gear if able. More than just a workout, Murph is a test of endurance, resilience, and mental toughness.

For firefighters, maintaining physical fitness is a critical part of the job. The strength and stamina built through training help ensure crews are prepared to handle the physical demands of emergency response and continue serving the community safely and effectively.

We’re proud of our firefighters for taking part in this meaningful Memorial Day tradition and honoring those who gave everything in service to others.

05/25/2026

South Trail Fire & Rescue wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day.

05/23/2026

Choosing a swimsuit is more than style, it can also be a safety decision.

Studies and real-world water visibility tests show that some swimsuit colors are much easier to see underwater than others. In pools, lakes, and beaches, bright neon colors remain visible longer, while lighter blues, whites, and darker colors can blend into the water or shadows.

When supervising children near water:
Select high visibility swimwear
Stay within arm’s reach of young swimmers
Avoid distractions
Use multiple drowning prevention layers including barriers, swim lessons, and life jackets when appropriate

Visibility is not a substitute for supervision, but it can provide critical extra seconds during an emergency.

05/22/2026

Happy National EMS Week to all of our firefighters at South Trail Fire & Rescue and to all the agencies and partners who play an important role in the chain of survival and care throughout Southwest Florida! Every one of STFD firefighters is trained as an Emergency Medical Technician, with 50 proudly serving as practicing Paramedics. All South Trail fire engines, trucks, pumpers, and rescues provide Advanced Life Support care during medical emergencies to help protect our community every day. EMS is a team effort built on dedication, skill, teamwork, and compassion. We are proud to serve our residents and visitors when they need us most.

05/21/2026

Today marks one year since we lost Firefighter Mike McCarty.
There isn’t a day that goes by that he isn’t remembered. His picture still hangs in the station. His helmet shields remain. A shadow box holds small pieces of who he was—his blue dish towel, his favorite cup and plates. These aren’t just items; they are reminders that Mike is still part of our firehouse, still part of us.
We remember him often, not just today. In quiet moments. In conversations. In the spaces he once filled. The absence is still there.
We carry the weight of his loss every day. We may know the why, but that doesn’t mean we understand it—or accept it. Some things just don’t make sense, no matter how much time passes.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. We also want to take this moment to emphasize the importance of mental health wellness, especially within the first responder community. We urge anyone who is struggling to reach out, and all of us to reach in to check on each other. Sometimes the strongest thing we can do is look a little closer and ask again.

Mike, you are missed more than words can say. You are remembered. Always.

05/18/2026

South Trail Fire & Rescue was honored to fly the American flag in celebration of Armed Forces Week at Mission BBQ on Saturday. 🇺🇸
We proudly stand with and support the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. Thank you for your dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our freedoms.

05/17/2026

Live near one of our four South Trail Fire stations or a live weather station? Check in before and during the storm to see if what live weather readings are in your area.

.

05/16/2026

This morning, the oncoming and off-going crews from South Trail Fire & Rescue Station 64 proudly showed their support for all the two-legged and four-legged participants in the MADD 5K Walk!
The event made its way from JetBlue Stadium through the side lot of Station 64 in Gateway, where our crews were ready with bottled water for walkers and water bowls for their furry companions — depending on who was thirsty!
Our firefighters also helped keep spirits high by cheering on participants throughout the morning.
South Trail Fire & Rescue strongly supports the mission of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and their continued efforts to eliminate impaired driving, support victims, and promote safer communities. Thank you to everyone who came out to support this important cause!