The Jonesboro Fire Department saw a 15% increase in emergency calls during 2025 compared to 2024, according to the department’s annual community report released this week.
The report shows increases across all service categories, including emergency medical services and rescue calls and fire suppression responses. Chief Marty Hamrick said the rising call volume reflects the city’s continued growth.
“I guess the biggest thing overall is the call volume continues to go up year after year and that just points to a growing city and bigger need for our services,” Hamrick said. The department has focused on expanding its medical response capabilities, with more than 70 personnel now certified as emergency medical technicians. Hamrick said residents are beginning to understand the department’s dual role in emergency medical services.
“I think folks are starting to realize now that if you call 911 for an ambulance, you’re gonna get a fire truck first,” Hamrick said. “We have over 70 of our personnel that are EMT certified. So, we’re able to provide that basic life support there faster and give quality care to those patients when they need it the most.”
The city recorded one fire fatality in 2025, while the state overall saw an increase in fire deaths. Hamrick said the department plans to conduct more community outreach, emphasizing that education remains the best tool for fire prevention.
