The Scottsdale Fire Department reported several advancements in public safety during 2025, focusing on wildfire mitigation, emergency response, training, and community engagement. The department completed fuel treatments on 64 acres and over 22 miles of roadways and preserve lands, targeting high-risk areas such as north Scottsdale and the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve. These actions aimed to reduce hazardous vegetation near homes and infrastructure, enhancing both firefighter access and community protection.
Financial support for these efforts included $176,500 from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management’s Healthy Forest Initiative. Chemical treatments were applied along 25 miles of roadway and at various structures and trailheads. Additionally, two trailhead areas received infrastructure protection improvements.
Scottsdale continued its leadership in the national Firewise program by certifying 24 communities—representing about 5,600 homes across 4,710 acres—with more communities working toward certification. Wildfire planning tools continue to identify north Scottsdale as a high-risk area for wildland fires.
“Scottsdale’s proactive approach to fire safety saves lives, protects property and demonstrates what’s possible when a city invests in prevention and preparedness,” said City Manager Greg Caton. “From wildfire mitigation to emergency medical services, these accomplishments reflect our commitment to public safety and to being a national model.”
In January 2025, the department opened an expanded regional training center at the City of Scottsdale Public Safety Training Facility. The $33 million project was funded through bond initiatives and now serves both fire and police agencies in the region. Two recruit classes graduated from this facility during its first year.
The city also marked the 40th anniversary of its ordinance requiring fire sprinklers in all new single-family homes—a policy adopted in 1985 that has become central to local fire safety practices.
On July 1st, the department celebrated its 20th anniversary while joining the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association. This membership places Scottsdale among major U.S. fire departments involved in shaping policy nationwide.
September saw the opening of Fire Station 612 at Hayden Road and Mayo Boulevard. The $13.7 million station enhances emergency coverage in northern Scottsdale with an engine company, battalion chief unit, and specialized vehicles for wildland incidents.
As part of expanding municipal ambulance services, three new rescue units began service in November under Phase II of Scottsdale’s ground ambulance program. This addition increases around-the-clock transport capacity for emergency medical services.
The department also continued assessments for more than 42,000 properties facing urban-wildland interface risks by providing residents with hazard evaluations and educational resources.
“These achievements show how prevention, training, and response all work together,” said Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon. “We’re proud of the progress made in 2025, and we remain focused on protecting our community today and into the future.”
For further details about programs or initiatives from the Scottsdale Fire Department visit https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/.
