Let's all take a moment to applaud Jeremy, a true hero in our midst!  Jeremy witnessed a vehicle crash that tragically ended in a retention pond. Without hesitation, he grabbed a dumbbell from his Semi-truck and broke the windows, enabling the occupants to escape to...

We are thrilled to announce the promotion and pinning ceremony Deputy Chief Adam Perry! Join us in congratulating and Adam Perry for his dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to serving our community. Your hard work and over 23 years of experience has...

Exciting News! Walmart has just made a generous donation of $1000 to Southern Manatee Fire Rescue to support fire prevention education and provide much-needed smoke detectors. This contribution will make a huge impact in keeping our community safe. A big thank you to...

Chief Bounds attended the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association (FFCA) Memorial Service on Sunday July 21st to honor Chief Officers and FFCA Members who passed away in the last year.  Retired Oneco-Tallevast and Southern Manatee Fire Rescue Chief James Steffens was one of...

Consumers can purchase qualifying disaster preparedness supplies exempt from tax during the 2024 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday. Passed by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis, the sales tax holiday begins Saturday, June 1 and...

Congratulations to those receiving acknowledgement from the Manatee Fire Chiefs' Association for their work during Hurricane Ian. BC Adam Perry Lt. Derek Foss FF/Paramedic Bill Pratt FF Randy Smith FF Dave Sedgley Rick Blanco received the...

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Fire Chief James T. Steffens, a dedicated and revered leader who served 10 years of service with unwavering commitment to Oneco Tallevast Fire Control District & Southern Manatee Fire Rescue...

We are delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to FireFighter Rich Gatanis and Lieutenant Justin Sperko for their remarkable 20 years of dedicated service at our fire department. Your unwavering commitment and expertise have been invaluable to our team, and...

Today we upgraded the services of Ladder 339 to Advanced Life Support (ALS), this is a set of life-saving protocols and skills that extend beyond Basic Life Support (BLS)

At a recent Commission meeting, the community welcomed four new firefighters who were sworn in to their positions. The event was a momentous occasion for both the firefighters and their family’s, as it marked the beginning of their service to protect the people and...

Firefighters and Officers from around the county came out to bid Battalion Chief Herb Smith a farewell after 33 years of service. His family and friends also filled the room. Battalion Chief Herb Smith started as a Volunteer in Sarasota Fire Dept, and was hired by the...

On February 28th 2023 SMFR personal responded to a reported train derailment in the rear of the 7200 block of 16th Street East.  The initial response consisted of 3 Engines, Hazmat Squad, Battalion and Hazmat Captain.  6 rail cars were found overturned.  5 cars were...

Congratulations to Training Chief Bobby Thayer on his retirement.  After 33 with the fire service he served in almost every position and on every shift.

After 33 years with the the fire service, Debbie is retiring.  Will miss her in the role of Executive Management Assistant.

Congratulations to our newly promoted Lieutenants: Lt. Seth Burnett Lt. Mike Murphy Lt. Kiel Duquette And, years of service awards to: FF Jarek DeHart 20 Years Lt. Chad D’Agostino 20 Years Lt. Wayne Lambert 25 Years Lt. Kiel Duquette 20 Years FF Stuart Ramer 20 Years...

We are so happy to be back in schools doing in-person public education!

SMFR DVP Derek Foss was awarded the Manatee County Chiefs Gallantry Star for Bravery. The highest award possible in Manatee County. DVP Foss made the selfless act of donating an organ to another so that she could continue to live life. The Organ Recipient Bri Baker...

At the July 21, 2022 Board of Commissioners meeting the newest IAFF (International Association of Fire Fighters) union contract was accepted and signed.  The contract comes from efforts by the union negotiation team and administration at Southern Manatee Fire and...