Hot Topics Blog

Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Week 2025 is almost here! From January 15-21, this National Day of Service-inspired event focuses on fire safety through the 5 E’s: Education, Economic Incentives, Engineering, Emergency Response, and Enforcement. Marcy Ost dives into how these strategies can help protect your community.

The 2025 legislative session is around the corner, and it’s time for North Dakota’s fire service leaders to gear up. From key updates to opportunities to advocate for your community, this is your chance to shape the future of fire response in our state. State Fire Marshal Doug Nelson explains. 

2025 will be a transition year for departments and districts as the U.S. Fire Administration ushers in the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) as the new system for collecting fire data. Marcy Ost and Doug Nelson will bring regular updates as the rollout happens. As they share in this first installment, there are still some pieces being worked out. 

With the holiday season upon us, fire chiefs and emergency responders know all too well that festive decorations, holiday cooking, and gatherings can bring a spike in fire risks. This year, it’s more important than ever for fire personnel to lead the charge in holiday fire safety. By proactively educating the public on preventing these seasonal hazards, you can help ensure that celebrations stay safe, reducing emergency calls and keeping North Dakotans protected. Here are some key holiday fire safety tips to share with your communities.

Fire Marshal Doug Nelson highlights the active wildfire season in North Dakota and updates from the International Code Council's annual meeting. 

A new division with the North Dakota State Auditor's Office is a resource for fire districts and departments who have questions or need assistance with financial reporting requirements. Guest Contributor Pearl LaCoursiere explains how she can help.

Temperatures are dropping, leaving North Dakotans searching for ways to stay warm. Turning on home heating systems, space heaters and other appliances can leave you in the cold. Deputy Fire Marshal Kirstin Greaney-Stanger explains the fire code around winter heat sources.

Lithium-ion batteries have been in the news recently for overheating and causing fires in homes, businesses, and airplanes. Marcy Ost shares ways to promote the hazards surrounding lithium-ion batteries and reduce the risks they pose.

Fire Marshal Doug Nelson talks about fall activities and new developments in fire prevention advocacy.

Haunted houses are a staple during the fall season. Deputy Fire Marshal Kaylyn Lucas talks about how to make these amusement areas safe.