01 Dec 2025 Carrying the torch

By KD Reep 

In a city that treasures its traditions and heroes, the Searcy Fire Department has found the perfect symbol for both — and she is wrapped in fur, full of spots and fueled by boundless puppy energy. Her name is Ember, and she is a six-month-old Dalmatian puppy who has quickly become the heart and spirit of Searcy’s firefighting family.

Born on July 5, Ember joined the department this fall after being donated by Jennifer Flint, who works for a local ambulance service. What began as a casual conversation about “maybe getting a firehouse dog someday” turned into an instant “yes” once the firefighters saw Ember’s picture. 

“We just fell in love with her,” said the department’s administrative assistant, Michelle Allred. “All the firefighters were on board — everyone wanted to be part of it.”

From the moment she trotted through the doors of Central Station, Ember has been surrounded by affection, structure and purpose. With three shifts of firefighters working 48 hours on and 96 hours off, the fire station truly feels like home, complete with the pitter-patter of puppy paws. 

“There are some firefighters who take a little extra initiative, but everyone takes care of her,” Allred said. “When she needs to go out, she goes out. It’s just like having your dog at home.”

Ember quickly adapted to her new surroundings, thanks in part to a professional trainer from the community who donated her services. She’s kennel-trained and already knows several commands like sit, shake, low crawl and even “stop, drop and roll.” That last one has become a crowd favorite during public education events, where Ember helps teach children fire safety basics in a way they’ll never forget.

“She’s still a puppy and can get a little overwhelmed, but we’ve taken her to a few schools,” Allred said. “She does great for short visits, and she absolutely loves the attention. The kids adore her.”

Ember’s arrival has sparked a wave of community affection. Businesses and residents alike have dropped by the station with gift baskets, toys and treats. Local pet store Petsense of Searcy has even stepped forward to sponsor Ember’s food, supplies and toys, while a local veterinary clinic has volunteered to cover her medical care and vaccinations. 

“She really is the community’s dog,” Allred said. “Everywhere we go, people recognize her and want to take pictures. It’s like she’s famous.”

Harding University even hosted a “National Fire Pup Day” event in her honor this October, drawing news coverage and plenty of new fans. It’s easy to see why: Ember’s black-and-white coat and bright eyes seem made for the spotlight. But for the men and women of the Searcy Fire Department, she’s more than a mascot; she’s a morale booster, a teacher and a daily reminder of why they serve.

While Ember represents the department’s vibrant present, an equally beloved fixture at Central Station honors its storied past: a beautifully restored 1926 Ford Model T fire truck. 

The gleaming red relic, built on the iconic “T” chassis that helped America fall in love with the automobile, is a piece of living history. Its brass headlamps, open cab and simple elegance recall an era when firefighting was done by hand and heart. Although the truck itself isn’t original to Searcy, it was donated to the department and restored to match photographs of the city’s original fire vehicle from the 1920s. 

“It’s a 1926 model, the same year the Searcy Fire Department was founded,” Allred said. “We thought it was amazing to have a replica of the kind of truck they would have used.”

For years, the truck was used in parades, weddings and funerals before being retired to a place of honor inside the department’s offices. Its centennial, which coincides with the fire department’s own 100th anniversary in 2026, is a powerful reminder of how far Searcy has come since its early days of 10 volunteer firefighters. Today, the department has grown to more than 50 full-time firefighters operating from three stations, where they maintain an ISO Class 1 rating, the highest possible for fire protection excellence.

Together, Ember and the Model T form a heartwarming contrast, representing the department’s bright future and its proud past, respectively. But both stand as testaments to its service, which is steadfast, compassionate and deeply rooted in community.

This month, residents may see Ember riding along in parades or appearing at local holiday events. “We’ll take her out when it’s not too overwhelming,” Allred said. “She’s learning more every day.” 

As the holidays arrive and the firehouse lights glow a little brighter, Ember reminds the community of the simplest and greatest gift of all — the gift of service. In every wag of her tail, every smile she brings and every spark of joy she ignites, Ember carries forward a century of dedication that defines the Searcy Fire Department.

Searcy’s 1926 Ford Model T Fire Truck

The Ford Model T (“Tin Lizzie”) was built in the United States from 1908 until 1927. To the right is an image of the very first Ford Model T used by the Searcy Fire Department 100 years ago.  It was frequently converted into fire trucks by companies like Howe and American LaFrance. It represents the transition from horse-drawn firefighting to motorized response.  Featuring an open cab and brass-mounted headlamps, a vacuum pump was mounted on the front end, which identified it as a fire apparatus. 

Above is a restored replica just like the one from a century ago. Both the fire truck and department will celebrate their 100th anniversary in 2026.  The replica was donated to the department and restored to match the historic photograph from the early years.  The fully restored truck was used for years in local parades, weddings and funerals but has been retired to an indoor display at Central Station.  It now serves as a beloved historical centerpiece for visitors.