North Berrien Fire & Rescue Department

03/17/2026

03/17/2026

Please join all of us here at North Berrien Fire in congratulating Lt. Frank De La Torre, FF Ashley Kennedy-Gilson, and FF Nick Quinn on completing and passing the Michigan Fire Instructor I Class. This class comprises 40 hours of instruction on teaching techniques and procedures. Students at the end of the program were required to make a 15-minute presentation to their fellow students and evaluators from the Michigan Fire Fighters Training Council. Graduates from this class will go on to educate our future Firefighters.

02/02/2026

Sunday Afternoon and, the NBFR family got together to celebrate another year in the books. It is an honor to work alongside these great people.

John JC Perkins Five Years of Service Award
Corey Kiser Five Years of Service Award
Kim Kibby has the highest % of Training Attendance
CJ Whitaker has the highest % of Call Attendance
Cadet Hutchins had the highest % of Training Attendance
Cadet Herhold had the Highest % of Call Attendance
Retired Safety Officer David Woodward was Honored for 37 years of dedicated service to the Community. David recieved Life Time Membership to the North Berrien Firefighters Association.

01/23/2026

Snow cannot occur without cold temperatures. 🥶

We are in a cold weather advisory. Prolonged exposure can lead to frostbite and hypothermia in a short amount of time. To stay safe and warm:

• Limit time outdoors whenever possible.

• Dress in layers, including hats, gloves, and insulated footwear.

• Keep exposed skin covered.

• Check on elderly neighbors, children, and those without adequate heat.

• Bring pets indoors or ensure they have proper shelter.

• Use space heaters safely and never leave them unattended.

If you must travel, be prepared with extra blankets, warm clothing, and emergency supplies. Stay alert, stay warm, and stay safe.

01/19/2026

Good Afternoon

North Berrien Fire & Rescue is currently assisting Covert Fire Department with the closure of both the fast and slow lanes on northbound I-196. Traffic is being diverted at Exit 7 to Hagar Shore Road at this time. Please avoid the area if possible.

Update: I-196 is back open!!!

01/18/2026

“What is Michigan without snow? Please remain weather-aware and exercise caution while driving in these conditions. Safe driving is essential to protecting yourself and others on the road.”

LAKE EFFECT SNOW TONIGHT: Brrr... we all know it's cold out there, and Lake Michigan is getting the memo! With a mainly west/WNW wind, lake snow will primarily impact areas north of US-20, with the highest totals along & north of I-94 in southern Michigan. Snow looks to start around 9pm, and will continue through Monday. The heaviest will be 12am-8am Monday.

Not monumental totals here, but certainly impactful for parts of the area. Given the cold temperatures, the snow will be VERY fluffy/light/dry, and any wind will blow it around.

More snow chances are in the forecast as we move into next week, including some system snow. Updates on that later... I'm trying to focus on one event at a time to ensure simplicity. :)

01/09/2026

North Berrien Fire Rescue is pleased to announce that the Great work of Lt. Frank De La Torre and Fire Marshal Bob Adams has paid off. We received notification that FM Global has awarded us a grant of $5,000. With this award, we will continue and bolster our Fire Incident Pre-Planning efforts to better protect our community.

12/31/2025

Good evening, Happy New Year 🎊

These tools are known as cutters and spreaders, commonly referred to some people as the “Jaws of Life.” They are used during serious emergencies, and we hope you never have to encounter them tonight.

Please do not drink and drive. Driving under the influence puts lives at risk—not only your own, but the lives of innocent and vulnerable people around you. One decision can permanently change or end a life.

If you have been drinking, call a family member, a friend, or use a rideshare service like uber to get home safely. Making the right choice tonight can save a life.

Your safety—and the safety of others—matters.

12/31/2025

Good Morning!!

By taking this action, you help ensure timely access for firefighters during emergencies and contribute to the overall safety of our community. Thank you for your cooperation and continued support.

12/29/2025

A Winter Weather Advisory ❄️ has been issued beginning at 12:00am tomorrow and continuing through Tuesday expiring at 1:00am. Please remain weather-aware. If you must travel, slow down, move over if need be and use extreme caution. Be mindful of first responders who will be out on the roads handling emergency calls. Your cooperation helps keep everyone safe.

Here are some important safety tips.

• Slow down—reduced speed is the safest speed.
Increase following distance to allow extra stopping time.
• Clear all snow and ice from your windows, roof, and lights before driving.
• Use headlights to improve visibility for yourself and others.
• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns to reduce the risk of sliding.
• Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid running out during delays.
• Stay alert for first responders and give them plenty of space on the roadway.

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas from North Berrien Fire & Rescue to you and your family. We wish you a safe, joyful, and peaceful holiday season.🎄