BISMARCK – The Office of the State Fire Marshal, a division of the North Dakota Insurance Department, has released statewide preliminary fire statistics for 2024 that show fewer fire-related incidents than in 2023.

As of Feb. 1, North Dakota fire departments have reported 2,924 fire-related incidents in the state for 2024. This is lower than the 3,158 incidents reported in 2023; however, fire departments have until June 30 to submit their reports for 2024. A final report will be released in September.

Based on preliminary data, the final count of fire incidents for 2024 is expected to be similar to 2023 levels once all reports are received and analyzed later this year, according to a news release from the fire marshal.

“In a year that saw the largest wildfires in North Dakota history, it’s relieving to see fire incidents remaining on par with previous years. My hope for the fire service this year is to continue promoting risk-reduction efforts that include fire education, stronger infrastructure and robust emergency management measures,” State Fire Marshal Doug Nelson said in the release.

North Dakota saw 11 fire-related fatalities in 2024, compared to 10 in 2023. About $26.9 million in property was lost from fires in 2024, which is on track to be the lowest yearly loss since 2018.

North Dakota had 355 fire departments and districts as of Jan. 1.