Sweetwater Fire Department and Ambulance Service

06/04/2026

The Sweetwater Fire Department is accepting applications for our upcoming Entrance Exam on Friday, August 14, 2026.

If you’re ready to serve your community, work alongside a dedicated team, and build a meaningful career in fire and EMS service, we want to hear from you.

🔥 Certified Starting Pay: $64,896
🔥 Non-Certified Starting Pay: $53,409
🔥 Annual Certification Pay:
• EMT: $600
• Paramedic: $2,700

Benefits include:
✔ 48 on / 96 off schedule
✔ 13 paid holidays
✔ City-paid health and life insurance

At the Sweetwater Fire Department, we are committed to serving with integrity, compassion, respect, honor, and accountability.

Apply today at:
🌐 www.sweetwatertx.gov

05/20/2026

The Sweetwater Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 300 block of West Avenue C on Monday, May 18, 2026, at approximately 8:00 a.m.

Upon arrival, crews observed heavy smoke and fire coming from a single-story residence. Firefighters immediately initiated a transitional fire attack and conducted a primary search of the residence, where they encountered significant smoke and fire conditions in a middle bedroom and attic space.

During the search, crews rescued a dog from a kennel located inside the residence. The dog safely exited the home, and Sweetwater Animal Services was notified. A secondary search confirmed no occupants remained inside the structure.

The fire was brought under control, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and no additional information will be released at this time. The Sweetwater Fire Department would like to thank the Roscoe Volunteer Fire Department for providing mutual aid.

05/18/2026

Full Press Release: https://www.sweetwatertx.gov/m/newsflash/home/detail/56

Crews are currently on scene of a structure fire in the 300 block of West Avenue C. Please avoid the area.

05/15/2026

We extend our thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies to the Abilene Fire Department and the family of friends of FF Hunter Patterson.

With the heaviest of hearts, we announce the death of Abilene Firefighter - Hunter Patterson. FF Patterson and his friend Brett Underwood, were involved in an off-duty, fatal vehicle accident early this morning, Friday, May 15, 2026. Both men passed away.

This is a devastating loss for Hunter’s family and our department. Hunter was a respected and beloved member of the AFD for 11 years. Hunter leaves behind his wife and children, as well as numerous other family members and friends. The loss of both men has greatly impacted members of our department. We ask that our wonderful community keep both families in their thoughts and prayers, while also respecting their privacy at this difficult time.

05/12/2026

This week, we proudly celebrate Firefighters Ja’Marion Smith, Gabriel Urrutia, and Zach Dawson as they officially complete their probationary year and earn their black helmets. 🚒🖤

Earning a black helmet is more than just a tradition, it represents a year of hard work, sacrifice, training, and dedication to the fire service and the community we proudly serve.

Over the past year, these firefighters have faced long hours, challenging calls, countless training opportunities, and have proven themselves as dependable members of our department and team. Their commitment, perseverance, and servant hearts have earned the respect of their fellow firefighters and this community.

Please join us in congratulating Firefighters Smith, Urrutia, and Dawson on this major career milestone. We are proud to have each of you as part of the Sweetwater Fire Department family and look forward to watching your careers continue to grow.

Congratulations, gentlemen, and thank you for your service! 👏🔥

05/08/2026

Firefighter Spotlight: Ian Bullard 🧑‍🚒

Firefighter Ian Bullard may be relatively new to the department, with just two years of service, but his commitment to helping others runs much deeper. With 12 years of experience as a paramedic, Ian brings a seasoned perspective and a steady presence to every call. His passion for EMS is evident in the care and compassion he shows to those in need, always striving to make a difference in the lives of the people he serves.

Ian’s heart for service extends beyond his professional role, it's a defining part of who he is. He approaches each day with humility, putting others before himself and quietly making an impact both within the department and throughout the community. When asked about being featured, Ian was quick to redirect the spotlight, sharing that his greatest desire is for God to be glorified above all. He also shared a verse that guides his life and work, Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

Outside of work, Ian enjoys spending quality time with his family and his two daughters. Whether he’s out running, hiking, or engaging in a game of chess, he values the balance between his professional calling and personal life.

We’re grateful to have Firefighter Bullard on our team—his experience, humility, and servant’s heart make a lasting difference every day.❤️

05/02/2026

This weekend, we pause to remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities.

During National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, we honor those who gave their lives protecting others, running toward danger when others were running away. Their courage, dedication, and selflessness will never be forgotten.

We also stand with the families, friends, and fellow firefighters who carry their legacy forward each day.

Join us in taking a moment to reflect, remember, and honor our fallen heroes. ❤️‍🔥

04/30/2026

04/28/2026

Over the weekend, one of our ambulances experienced engine failure while responding to a medical call in the county. Thanks to quick teamwork, our fire engine crew that was also responding picked up the ambulance crew and continued to the scene with very little delay.
We’re proud of how our crews adapted and kept operations running smoothly with minimal interruption.
While our ambulance is out of service, Scurry County EMS has graciously loaned us one of theirs. We’re incredibly grateful for their support and partnership.
If you see a Scurry County ambulance in our area, rest assured it’s still your Sweetwater Fire Department personnel providing care.

Thank you again, Scurry County EMS, for being there when we needed it most.