Safford Fire Department responds to 185 emergency incidents during 2025-26 fiscal year
The Safford Fire Department responded to 185 emergency incidents during fiscal year 2025-26 while continuing to expand training, modernize operations and strengthen its emergency response capabilities, according to the department’s annual report.
Fire Chief Patrick Anderson said the department continued its commitment to enhancing emergency response capabilities and maintaining professional standards throughout the year. Department personnel completed approximately 1,340 hours of training, with an emphasis on operational readiness, firefighter safety and professional service.
One of the department’s major accomplishments was implementation of the ImageTrend Records Management System, a digital platform designed to improve the management of emergency incident reports, training documentation, inspections and department reporting. According to the report, the transition has improved operational efficiency, accountability and the department’s ability to analyze response data while maintaining regulatory compliance.
The department also received a $200,000 grant from the United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties. The funding supported construction and acquisition of a dedicated classroom at the regional training center, expanding opportunities for firefighters and first responders to receive advanced training and strengthen emergency-response capabilities.
The annual report provides a detailed breakdown of fire department, fire district and public-service responses throughout the fiscal year. Reported incidents included structure and vehicle fires, brush fires, gas leaks, smoke investigations, alarms, medical and rescue-related calls, traffic accidents and other emergencies.
The report also highlights the department’s equipment and apparatus. Safford’s fleet includes multiple fire engines, a ladder truck, a water tender, a brush truck and command vehicles. The department’s newer equipment includes thermal imaging cameras, rescue saws, gas detectors, SCBA equipment and other specialized firefighting and rescue tools.
Financially, the report shows the Safford Fire Department’s budget has increased substantially over the five-year period presented, reflecting increased expenditures for salaries, benefits, professional services, utilities, equipment, training and other operational needs. The FY 2025-26 budget was listed at approximately $1.85 million, compared with about $1.04 million two years earlier.
The report concludes by emphasizing the department’s continued focus on serving Safford and the surrounding fire district while maintaining trained personnel, modern equipment and the resources necessary to respond to emergencies throughout the community.
