Ann Arbor reports significant drop in fires and power lines

The Ann Arbor Fire Department has released its annual report, showing positive trends for 2024. The number of structure fires fell from 75 in 2023 to 56 in 2024. Fire Chief Mike Kennedy noted that the increase in 2023 was largely due to severe ice storms that year, which led to an unusual spike in incidents. The report also indicated a significant drop in downed power lines. There were 488 reported in 2023, but only 120 in 2024, marking a 75% decrease. Chief Kennedy explained that 2023 was an outlier because of the two major ice storms, while the numbers for 2024 are more typical when compared to the previous years. Cooking fires remain the leading cause of structure fires in the city, although they decreased by 36% to 110 incidents in 2024. Fortunately, there was only one fire-related fatality during the year. Caliyah Scott-Robinson, 24, died in a tragic incident at Baker Commons Apartments in January. On a positive note, the fire department acquired a new rescue boat, which has greatly enhanced their rescue capabilities on the Huron River. The boat was put to use quickly, with several rescues reported in July, including those of a 7-year-old boy and two men. Looking ahead, the fire department is focused on the construction of a new fire station to replace the current one built in 1966. Chief Kennedy expressed excitement about this long-term project and hopes to see groundbreaking begin this summer.