January 14th, 2026 Local News
Bismarck, Mo. (KFMO) - The Bismarck Fire Protection District responded to a total of 542 calls for service in 2025, marking a 16 percent increase compared to 2024, according to newly released annual call data.
Fire officials say the increase translated into more than 1,500 total responses by volunteer firefighters throughout the year, highlighting the growing demand placed on the district’s volunteer force. The yearly run totals show a wide range of incidents handled by the department.
Fire-related calls included 55 brush fires, 22 fire alarm activations, 10 commercial fires, 22 fire investigations, and several electrical, camper/RV, and gas odor calls. Crews also responded to 19 wash-down and debris removal incidents and 27 move-up calls assisting neighboring departments.
Medical and rescue-related incidents made up a significant portion of responses as well. These included 13 cardiac or respiratory arrest calls, 15 motor vehicle accidents with injuries, 24 motor vehicle accidents with unknown injuries, and two crashes involving known entrapment. Additional calls involved falls, diabetic emergencies, allergic reactions, burns, choking incidents, and a small number of animal bites and rescues.
The department also responded to less frequent but serious incidents such as a gunshot injury, an attempted suicide, and two train-related incidents.
Bismarck Fire Protection District officials say the increase in calls underscores the importance of community support for volunteer firefighters, who continue to answer the call around the clock to protect life and property across the district.