DC Fire And EMS

Congratulations to Jaron Burroughs, a Life Scout with Troop 544 in Northwest Washington, DC, for completing an outstanding Eagle Scout project at Engine 24!

Jaron chose to give back to his community through a beautification project at the firehouse, helping to enhance the station's appearance and create a more welcoming environment for both firefighters and visitors. The project brought together volunteers, family, friends, and community members who generously donated their time and effort to support his vision.

The members of Engine 24 are incredibly grateful for Jaron's hard work, leadership, and dedication to service. We wish him the very best as he continues his journey toward achieving the rank of Eagle Scout!

Today, on DC Firefighter Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the residents and visitors of our Nation's Capital.

Since 1915, this day has been dedicated to preserving the memory of those who answered every alarm with courage, commitment, and an unwavering sense of duty. Their names may be etched in stone, but their legacy lives on in every firefighter who continues to serve, every life saved, and every family protected.

At the annual ceremony held at Ft. Lincoln Cemetery in Brentwood, Maryland, we gather not only to mourn their loss, but to celebrate their lives, their service, and the profound impact they made on our department and community.

Today, we ring the bell, bow our heads, and remember our fallen brothers. Their sacrifice is forever woven into the history of the District of Columbia Fire and EMS Department.

Rest easy. We have the watch from here.

Last November, Camp Spark alum Karina Torres walked into a local restaurant in Bowie, Maryland—just an ordinary evening, just grabbing dinner.

But inside those doors… something unfolded that no one expected.

There was a moment.

A decision.

A split second where someone needed help.
And Karina was ready.

Karina had attended Camp Spark, an all‑girls firefighting and emergency skills camp. It was there she learned how to stay calm under pressure, how to take action when others hesitate, how to use lifesaving skills with confidence and courage.

What happened in that restaurant changed a little girl’s life forever.

And in this video, you’ll see exactly how.
This summer, you can learn the same empowering skills.

Sign up now for Camp Spark and become the next young woman prepared to make a difference when it matters most.

Karina is the daughter of Sgt. John Torres from Engine 10.

To apply visit https://forms.office.com/g/Dct6pXx7X4

During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we are proud to spotlight Recruit Noah Searchinger of Recruit Class 414.

Noah, who is of Korean descent, previously served his community as an EMT in Takoma Park, MD, before taking the next step toward becoming a Firefighter/EMT with DCFD. His dedication to public service and passion for helping others continues to inspire those around him every day.

Noah hopes to encourage more Asian Americans to pursue careers in the fire service and EMS field, showing that diversity makes our department and our communities stronger.

Thank you, Noah, for your commitment, leadership, and representation in the fire service community!