City of Des Moines, IA
02/03/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/03/2026 10:45
DMFD Programs Deliver Measurable Results as Call Volume Stabilizes in 2025
Des Moines, Iowa - Tuesday, February 3, 2026 - The Des Moines Fire Department saw the number of emergency calls stabilize in the 2025 calendar year. Response data shows the increase in call volume was minimal. These numbers are attributable to DMFD-led specialized response programs and ongoing prevention efforts.
While 2025 data indicates that DMFD crews from the city's 11 fire stations handled more calls for service than any previous year, with 33,921, the minimal increase from 2024 and shift in requested responses signal that recent DMFD targeted response programs are becoming more impactful and providing the appropriate level of care for those in need of services.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) calls continued to account for the majority of the department's responses in 2025, at roughly 61%. For the second consecutive year, EMS call volume declined slightly by 1.52% compared to the prior year.
Fire Chief Jonathan Lund said that trend reflects the success of targeted programs developed through firefighter-led strategic planning, including the department's Mobile Integrated Healthcare (MIH) program.
"We've seen how the Mobile Integrated Healthcare program's intentional approach has had an immediate impact in our community," Chief Lund said. "By proactively engaging some of our highest 911 users and connecting them with appropriate care, we're improving outcomes while freeing up our other resources to respond throughout the city. What is exciting is how we are leaning into this success by developing a new partnership designed to address opioid issues that are impacting our community."The Fire Department also continued to see a modest decline in fire-related incidents in 2025, extending a positive trend driven by prevention, education, and enforcement efforts. Reducing fires remains a key priority for the department.
"Any reduction in fire incidents is good news for our community," Lund said. "We continue to emphasize cooking safety, which is the most common cause of residential fires in Des Moines."
The DMFD Fire Prevention Bureau provides seasonal safety education year-round, including winter fire safety tips available at DSM.city/WinterFireSafety.
Looking ahead, the Des Moines Fire Department will continue investing in its workforce and infrastructure to meet community needs. This month, the department graduated the 102nd Class of the Des Moines Fire Academy and welcomed the 104th Class of recruits as they start their training and certifications. The 103rd Class was a previously certified group of recruits who already graduated from an accelerated Fire Academy and are actively in the field.
The opening of the new Fire Station 4 is also expected in spring 2026. The new station location will improve response times and service coverage on the northwest side of Des Moines.
Together, the 2025 data reflect a department focused not only on responding to emergencies but also on managing demand through prevention, innovation, and strategic planning to ensure reliable, effective service for a growing community.
CONTACT
Devin Perry
Communications Specialist III, City Manager's Office
(515) 210-3966
About the City of Des Moines
The City of Des Moines is Iowa's capital city, and our 17 departments serve more than 214,000 residents and 46 neighborhood associations. Des Moines is a leader in sustainability and offers its residents vibrant neighborhoods, an active downtown, and abundant recreational opportunities.
Des Moines continuously improves neighborhoods, public safety, and quality of life by offering exceptional city services and reliable infrastructure while fostering an involved and compassionate community for all who visit and live in Des Moines.
City of Des Moines, IA published this content on February 03, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on February 03, 2026 at 16:45 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]