Flat Rock Fire Department ran about 1,422 calls in 2024; chiefs list grants, training and engine grant application

“For the year end of 2024, we ran a total of 14 22 calls for service. We averaged about 4 calls a day,” Fire Chief Derek told the City Council during department reports.

Chief Derek gave December and year-end figures: 110 calls in December (99 EMS, two vehicle accidents, nine fire-related calls) and a total of 1,422 calls for service in 2024. Since September the department documented 276 hours of company training, 127 hours of hazmat training and 22 hours of officer training.

The chief listed grant awards the department received in 2024: $22,000 from FEMA for new hose; $4,500 combined from Marathon Oil and CN Railroad for an exhaust fan; $28,000 from the state for turnout gear; and roughly $35,000 from a foundation for a new boat, which the chief said is now in the bay.

Looking ahead, Derek said the department has submitted a grant application for a new fire engine and associated equipment. He also announced the department plans a 100-year anniversary celebration likely during Fire Prevention Month in October 2025.

Why it matters: call volumes, training and grant-funded equipment speak to the department's operational capacity and the city's reliance on external funding for major apparatus. The department's grant activity reduces the need to fund large purchases directly from the city's general fund.

Ending: Chief Derek invited council members and residents to view the new boat and said updates on the engine grant will be provided as the application progresses.