UPDATE: The Seattle Fire Department is highlighting its significant challenges and expansions throughout 2025 in a newly released report from Chief Harold Scoggins. This urgent recap reveals critical emergency responses and community initiatives that have shaped the department’s year, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to the Seattle community.
In a message published in the latest edition of the Seattle Responder, Chief Scoggins detailed the department’s proactive measures, including personnel deployments to Los Angeles in January to combat devastating wildfires. These actions underscore the department’s readiness to respond not only locally but also to broader emergencies affecting the region.
Amid these challenges, the Seattle Fire Department has made strides in operational enhancements. The acquisition of a third rescue watercraft and upgrades to fire stations—including new fitness equipment and rescue swimmer wetsuits—have been made possible through generous funding from the Seattle Fire Foundation. These improvements are vital for ensuring the safety and preparedness of firefighters and paramedics.
Moreover, the department has intensified its community engagement efforts, with a surge in applications during the fall firefighter/EMT hiring cycle. This recruitment wave highlights the community’s strong interest in supporting local emergency services, especially following the tragic loss of Firefighter/Paramedic Larry Doll, who passed away unexpectedly this year. Chief Scoggins expressed deep gratitude for the community’s unwavering support during this difficult time.
In a significant achievement, seven firefighter/paramedics graduated from a rigorous nine-month training program, marking a crucial step in bolstering the department’s capabilities. Chief Scoggins emphasized the expansion of services related to overdose responses, including the establishment of a Post Overdose Response Team and a pop-up clinic providing long-acting injectable buprenorphine. These initiatives reflect the department’s commitment to addressing pressing public health issues in Seattle.
Additionally, the department has actively hosted patient reunions, allowing those saved from emergencies to meet and thank the first responders who aided them. This initiative has fostered a stronger bond between the community and the firefighters, highlighting the human impact of their work.
However, challenges remain. The Seattle Fire Department is currently investigating a series of arson fires in the Columbia City neighborhood, which have posed significant operational challenges throughout the year. Chief Scoggins acknowledged these incidents, stressing the importance of community vigilance and partnership in addressing such issues.
As 2025 draws to a close, the Seattle Fire Department continues to reflect on a year filled with both accomplishments and challenges. The department remains focused on enhancing emergency response protocols and community engagement, ensuring that it is well-prepared for what lies ahead.
What’s Next: The Seattle Fire Department will continue to monitor the situation regarding the arson investigations and assess the effectiveness of its community initiatives. Updates will follow as the department plans for the upcoming year, aiming to further strengthen its services and support for the Seattle community.
