DES MOINES, Iowa — The Des Moines Fire Department had a busy year once again in 2023, responding to a call nearly every 16 minutes.
This set a department record for number of calls for assistance responded by DMFD at 33,351, which is an increase of more than 800 calls from 2022.
The Des Moines Fire Department also saw a 10% increase in fire-related incidents. 63% of total calls were for emergency medical services, like delivering babies or assisting at car crash scenes.
Out of all Des Moines Fire Stations, Fire Station 1 on Mulberry Street was the busiest station in 2023.
"I think there is a need for us and as an emergency all-hazard service, there will always be that need," said DMFD Chief John TeKippe. I think the volume kind of reflects how people access healthcare."
The way DMFD responds to emergency and fire-related calls in the next few months will have to be more precise, because frigid temperatures can be a hazard for firefighters.
"Our window of opportunity is shorter and we're going to be creating ice while we're fighting the fire," TeKippe said. "So we have [to] use really just sound body mechanics and try to be as efficient as possible, because at some point, we're going to need to thaw ourselves out, and get ready for the next call."
TeKippe added the department always receives more fire calls around this time of year, because Iowans heat their homes in different, and sometimes unsafe, ways.
"We really want people to be aware if you are using a space heater," TeKippe said. "Having space around that space heater. Not placing things on top of it. Be careful if you're using candles or some other alternative way to light or heat your home."
Aside from suggesting to heat your home properly, DMFD also mentioned to be careful cooking, because it is the number one cause of fires they respond to.