Ephrata Fire Department reflects on 2025
In September 2025, the Ephrata Fire Department responded to a brush fire that spread rapidly, destroying one house and damaging six others. Chief Jeremy Burns said this was the most stressful incident of the year; however, he said it was handled well with the help of volunteers from the district and Grant County fire districts 7 and 13.
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The Washington State Firefighters Association awarded the Ephrata Fire Department the “Volunteer Fire House of the Year” for 2025. Retired Chief Don Fortier presented the award. From left to right are volunteers Emily Grace, Logan Anderson, Jake Wezenberg and Nigel McNeill, Fortier, Fire Chief Jeremy Burns, and volunteers Colleen Winski and Darren St. Clair.
Nayelli Lopez, 15, was honored as the Ephrata Fire Department Chief for a Day in 2025. Ephrata Fire Department Chief Jeremy Burns, said community outreach such as Chief for Day, “Touch a Truck” and the Autism Walk are important to the department.
EPHRATA — The Ephrata Fire Department experienced a busy year in 2025, responding to a total of 513 calls for service. Fire Chief Jeremy Burns provided an overview of these calls, revealing that approximately 65% were related to Emergency Medical Services, while only 10% were actual fire calls. The remaining 25% fell into various categories such as fire alarms, elevator rescues and hazardous conditions.
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