Kentwood Professional Firefighter’s L3174

08/06/2026

🚨STRUCTURE FIRE🚨

3200 Block of 32nd ST SE
At 0700, Kentwood Fire Stations 2,1, and 3 responded to reports of a working fire in an exhaust system of a cooking oven. Engine 52 arrived with nothing showing as an on-scene report. During E52’s investigation, active fire was found in the exhaust system. E51 secured a water supply and E52 stretched a 2-1/2” line with a high rise pack to the fire and extinguished the fire. Overhaul was completed and no further damage to the ovens or exhaust system.

Thank you to KPD for traffic control and LIFE EMS for standby.

08/02/2026

On 7/25/2026 KFD responded to a reported structure fire in the 200 blk of 43rd St. with auto aid from Wyoming Fire Department E-2 and Car 3.

WFD E-2 arrived on scene to smoke and flames showing. They deployed a hand line and initiated fire attack. M-53 arrived on scene and conducted a primary search. E-53 went interior and began pulling ceiling in the fire room.

KFD Car 3 arrived on scene and assumed command.

M-51 arrived on scene and provided patient care for those affected.

E-51 arrived on scene and assisted with overhaul operations.

E-52 was cleared from the scene and covered additional calls throughout the city.

The fire was quickly knocked down preventing extensive fire spread. Great work by all crews involved, we have a great working relationship with Wyoming Fire Department and are always ready to return the favor whenever needed.

07/23/2026

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Grand Rapids Fire Department during this difficult time, and the family of retired Deputy Chief Freeman.

Statement from the Grand Rapids Fire Department

The Grand Rapids Fire Department announces with deep sorrow the unexpected passing of retired Deputy Chief Eric Freeman.

Deputy Chief Freeman faithfully served the citizens of Grand Rapids for decades, retiring just one year ago after a distinguished career marked by leadership, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the fire service. His impact on the organization is profound and lasting.

Throughout his tenure, Deputy Chief Freeman played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the department. He was instrumental in the development and success of the GRFD Cadet and Summer Youth Programs, creating meaningful opportunities for young people in our community to explore careers in the fire service. His passion for mentorship helped guide and inspire the next generation of firefighters.

In addition, Deputy Chief Freeman led the department’s hiring process for approximately the past ten years. His influence can be seen in the strength, professionalism, and character of the firefighters serving the City of Grand Rapids today.

The news of his passing has come as a shock to the entire Grand Rapids Fire Department family. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

At this time, funeral arrangements have not yet been finalized. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available.

We ask that you keep the Freeman family and the members of the Grand Rapids Fire Department in your thoughts during this difficult time.

07/14/2026

With temperatures soaring and athletes giving it their all at the Hartford Nationals, Kentwood Professional Firefighters were happy to provide a little relief with a unique cooling station to help participants, families, and spectators beat the heat.

Our members were proud to support the event by turning Engine 52 into the ultimate sprinkler, giving everyone a chance to cool down and stay safe during a hot summer day.

Whether it’s an emergency or a community event, we’re always glad to be there when our community needs us.

Stay hydrated, stay cool, and good luck to all of the Hartford Nationals participants!

07/10/2026

Sometimes the fire isn’t where you’d expect it—and neither is the solution.

Today, your Kentwood Professional Firefighters responded to a commercial building after a smoldering fire was discovered inside a dust collector conduit near the ceiling. Thinking outside the box, crews used our aerial platform bucket to safely access the elevated conduit and begin extinguishment and overhaul.

Fortunately, the fire was contained to the conduit. After a thorough overhaul and confirming there was no fire extension, crews ensured the area was safe before turning the building back over to the occupants.

Every incident presents a different challenge, and today’s call was a great example of how training, teamwork, and the right equipment come together to solve problems safely and efficiently.

Proud of our crews for another job well done!

07/09/2026

Your Kentwood Professional Firefighters responded to a residential structure fire yesterday in the 5700 block of Burgis Ave.

Engine 53 and Medic 53 arrived first on scene and reported smoke showing from the residence. Engine 53’s crew immediately initiated fire suppression while Medic 53’s crew began searching the home for occupants and pets.

Car 3 arrived shortly after and established command. Engine 51, Medic 51, Engine 52, and Grand Rapids Engine 12 also responded and quickly went to work assisting with fire attack, search operations, ventilation, and overhaul.

The fire was quickly located and extinguished, limiting further damage to the home.

Thankfully, all occupants and animals escaped the fire unharmed.

Thank you to Grand Rapids Engine 12 for their assistance on the incident.

07/08/2026

A BIG STEP FORWARD FOR MICHIGAN’S MILITARY RESERVISTS! 🇺🇸🚒

This week, the Michigan Professional Firefighters Union informed us that the Michigan Senate passed HB 5232 and HB 5233, bringing important protections for military reservists one step closer to becoming law.

These bills recognize the sacrifices made by first responders who serve both their communities and our nation.

If signed into law, these bills will provide up to 26 days of paid military leave each year for eligible reservists. This helps ensure reservists don’t suffer a financial penalty for fulfilling their military obligations.

No one should have to choose between serving their country and providing for their family. These bills help ensure our reservists can continue answering both calls without unnecessary financial hardship.

This is a tremendous step forward, and we appreciate everyone who contacted their legislators and advocated for these protections. The work isn’t over yet, but today is a victory worth celebrating.

Thank you to the legislators, veterans’ organizations, labor unions, and military advocates who helped move this legislation forward.

Now let’s keep the momentum going as these bills move to the Governor’s desk.

https://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2025-2026/billengrossed/House/htm/2025-HEBH-5233.htm

06/21/2026

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, stepdads, grandpas, and father figures out there.

Today we celebrate the men who lead by example, support their families, and help shape the next generation through their love, guidance, and hard work.

We hope you have a wonderful day with the people who mean the most to you.

Happy Father’s Day from Kentwood Professional Firefighters Local 3174!