Opelika Fire Department chief highlights 2025 progress

The Opelika Fire Department achieved significant progress in 2025 by modernizing its fleet and infrastructure to support the city's continuous growth. To ensure top-tier emergency response capabilities, the department integrated two major vehicle assets: a specialized Battalion 1 command unit equipped with critical mobile coordination technology and Opelika's first Quint apparatus. Operating out of Station 4, this Sutphen SL 75-foot aerial ladder features a 2,000-gpm pump and a 500-gallon water tank to enhance both high-angle rescue and aerial fire suppression.

Alongside these fleet upgrades, significant strides were made to improve departmental facilities. The department finalized the planning and design phases to completely rebuild and replace the 65-year-old Station 2, which has exceeded its operational lifespan, while also initiating long-term planning for a future Station 6 to support the expanding Northeast Industrial Park.

Operationally, OFD personnel maintained an elite standard of performance and community involvement, responding to 7,037 emergency calls and completing 2,250 inspections and pre-fire plans. Dedicated to continuous professional growth, the department completed 8,000 student training hours, resulting in 200 Alabama Fire College accredited certifications through its Regional Training Center, alongside 390 local CPR certifications and the strategic maintenance of 1,860 fire hydrants.

The year was also marked by leadership advancement, including the promotion of four officers and the addition of 11 new hires and recruits to its ranks. The department formally recognized and celebrated two rescue incidents involving a local family and baby, hosted the 9/11 Traveling Exhibit’s first visit to Alabama and the public Kids Academy. The impact of the department’s community outreach was further celebrated through consecutive community fundraising events with the Opelika Police Department in Burgers and Badges and the Auburn Fire Department in Burger Wars, strengthening a bond with the citizens of Opelika that is reflected in a digital footprint exceeding 10,000 social media followers.