Grand Rapids Fire Department

08/09/2026

❤️‍🔥 OUR DISPATCHERS MEAN SO MUCH TO US. ❤️‍🔥 JOB ALERT!

Behind every Grand Rapids Fire Department response is a dispatcher helping make it happen. They are the calm voice on the other end of the line, the critical link between someone asking for help and the firefighters responding to them. Their work matters to us and to the people we serve.

🚨 COME WORK WITH US! 🚨
Ever wondered what it’s like to be the calm in the chaos? To help someone on what may be the worst day of their life and make a difference before first responders even arrive?

We’re hiring Emergency Communications Operators! 📞

As part of the Grand Rapids Emergency Communications Center, you’ll be part of a team that:
✨ Answers 9 1 1 and emergency calls
🧠 Uses critical thinking and multitasking skills
🤝 Supports our community AND our first responders
💪 Works together as a team when the pressure is on

Are you able to stay calm, think fast, communicate clearly, and handle chaos? Then you might be exactly who we’re looking for.

👉 COME WORK WITH US!

Learn more and apply today at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/grandrapids/jobs/5431477/emergency-communications-operator-i-police?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

08/03/2026

⚾️ Battle of the Badges is back! 🚒 vs 🚓

Mark your calendars for the Annual Father Den Wood Bat Classic charity baseball game! The Grand Rapids Fire Department is taking on the Grand Rapids Police Department, and we need YOU in the stands cheering us on.

Let's be honest... we look much better in baseball uniforms than GRPD anyway. 😉

07/30/2026

HazMat Response

Our HazMat Team responded after an IBC tote carrying an unknown chemical fell from a truck. Using specialized monitoring equipment and teamwork, the product was identified and the scene was safely managed.

Training, experience, and professionalism make all the difference when the call is anything but routine.

We are GR

07/28/2026

Battalion Chief 5 in action today, serving as the C Shift Battalion Chief on the South Side.

07/27/2026

07/20/2026

The Grand Rapids Fire Department announces with deep sorrow the unexpected passing of retired Deputy Chief Eric Freeman.

Deputy Chief Freeman faithfully served the citizens of Grand Rapids for decades, retiring just one year ago after a distinguished career marked by leadership, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the fire service. His impact on the organization is profound and lasting.

Throughout his tenure, Deputy Chief Freeman played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the department. He was instrumental in the development and success of the GRFD Cadet and Summer Youth Programs, creating meaningful opportunities for young people in our community to explore careers in the fire service. His passion for mentorship helped guide and inspire the next generation of firefighters.

In addition, Deputy Chief Freeman led the department’s hiring process for approximately the past ten years. His influence can be seen in the strength, professionalism, and character of the firefighters serving the City of Grand Rapids today.

The news of his passing has come as a shock to the entire Grand Rapids Fire Department family. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

At this time, funeral arrangements have not yet been finalized. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available.

We ask that you keep the Freeman family and the members of the Grand Rapids Fire Department in your thoughts during this difficult time.

07/17/2026

🌫️ Smoke Update for Friday (07/17/26) 🌫️

Smoke continues to impact air quality and visibility across West Michigan this morning.

🚗 Travel impacts:
• Visibility may drop below 1 mile across much of West Michigan.
• Areas east of US-131 and north of I-96 could see visibility fall below 1/4 mile through mid-morning.
• Allow extra time for your morning commute and be prepared for rapidly changing visibility.

😷 Air Quality:
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has issued an Air Quality Alert through Friday (07/17/26). Air quality is expected to range from Very Unhealthy to Hazardous, so limit time outdoors if possible, especially if you have respiratory conditions or are otherwise sensitive to smoke.

🌬️ Looking Ahead:
Smoke is expected to linger over the state through today, but conditions may begin to improve later this afternoon and evening as southwest winds increase.

🔗 Stay informed:
• Current air quality: AirNow.gov
• Michigan Air Quality Alerts: Michigan.gov/MiAir
• Check the latest forecast and visibility conditions before traveling.

07/16/2026

⚠️ Grand Rapids - the air is BAD today. City staff in multiple departments are working to keep residents safe. Here's what you need to know:

- There is a Statewide Air Quality Alert for Thursday, July 16, 2026, due to wildfire smoke from Canada.
- GRFD and Kent County Sheriff's Department are aware of the smoke - it is not from a local fire. Please reserve 911 emergency lines for local fires or other emergencies requiring an immediate response.
- MOST City of Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation programming, including pools, fitness classes, day camps, youth sports, and more, are closed out of caution. Please visit their page and be on the lookout for direct communications for more details.
- Be cautious while driving; the smoke is reducing visibility in some areas.

PROTECT YOURSELF:
- As much as you're able, avoid being outside for any period of time.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities, especially if you have asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions.
- Watch for symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, dizziness, or burning in your eyes, nose, or throat.
- Keep windows and doors closed when possible.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Run your central air conditioning with a MERV-13 or higher filter if available.
- Avoid outdoor burning and limit the use of residential wood-burning devices.

🌐 Stay up to date on air quality:
- Michigan.gov/MiAir
- AirNow.gov

07/06/2026

🚒 HONORING BATTALION CHIEF MARK FANKHAUSER 🚒

After 23 years of dedicated service to Grand Rapids and 37 years in EMS/Fire, Battalion Chief Mark Fankhauser is retiring! From US Army Combat Veteran to department leader, his impact will be felt for generations.

🗓️ Wednesday, July 8, 2026

🕐 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

📍 La Grave Station (38 La Grave Ave SE)

07/04/2026

Happy Fourth of July from the Grand Rapids Fire Department! 🇺🇸🚒

Today, we celebrate 250 years of American independence and the freedoms that bring us together as a community. As you enjoy fireworks, cookouts, and time with family and friends, please celebrate safely and look out for one another. Happy Independence Day, Grand Rapids!