The Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue and Emergency Services (BSO FRES) responded to more than 60,000 emergency incidents during the 2024/2025 fiscal year, according to figures released by the agency.
BSO FRES employs more than 890 personnel and operates 25 fire stations across eight Broward County municipalities, including unincorporated areas. The department also provides fire and rescue coverage for Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades.
Fire Operations, the agency’s largest division, handles daily fire suppression, emergency medical response and fire prevention activities. Those efforts are supported by BSO’s Emergency Medical Services Division, which is staffed by dual-certified firefighter paramedics.
A key component of the department’s emergency response is Air Rescue 85 (AR85), a medical helicopter that transports critically injured or ill patients within and outside Broward County, including long-distance flights across Florida. AR85 crews are trained in advanced airway procedures and whole blood administration for trauma patients.
BSO FRES’ Whole Blood Program, launched in 2020, allows paramedics to administer blood transfusions in the field or during transport. The department reported that more than 350 patients have received whole blood through the program, with a survival rate of nearly 80 percent.
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) coordinates disaster planning and large-scale emergency response for the agency. In 2025, OEM personnel participated in preparedness exercises focused on infectious disease outbreaks, hurricanes, radiological threats and aviation incidents. The office also deployed staff to assist with flood response efforts in New Mexico and hurricane recovery operations in Taylor County, Florida, following Hurricane Helene.
BSO FRES also maintains specialized units for technical rescue and hazardous materials incidents. Its Technical Rescue Team responds to scenarios such as building collapses, while its Type 1 Hazardous Materials Team — the highest classification in Florida — is equipped to manage large-scale incidents involving hazardous or unknown substances. The HAZMAT team has been deployed during major storm responses, including Hurricanes Ian and Helene.
Fire prevention remains a key component of BSO FRES’ mission. Through inspections, public education and community outreach, the Fire Prevention Division enforces fire and life safety codes while offering programs such as hands-only CPR training, infant car seat inspections, bleeding control workshops and safe driving initiatives. In 2025, more than 40,000 residents participated in these educational programs.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony said the department remains committed to protecting lives and delivering reliable service during both routine emergencies and large-scale disasters. Additional information about BSO Fire Rescue and Emergency Services, including career opportunities, is available at sheriff.org.
