NERIS vs. NFIRS
NFIRS was permanently sunset in February 2026. NERIS uses a fundamentally different data model. Here is how they compare.
A Fundamentally Different Structure
NFIRS organized incident data as a flat set of modules built around fire incidents. NERIS uses a three-schema model — Entity, Dispatch, and Incident — designed to represent the full range of emergency incident types with module-specific data requirements. The two systems do not map to each other. NFIRS experience does not transfer directly to NERIS field knowledge.
For fire departments, this means officers who filed NFIRS reports fluently are starting over with a new data model, new terminology, and new field requirements. The transition burden lands primarily on frontline officers.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Dimension | NFIRS | NERIS |
|---|---|---|
| System status | Sunset February 2026 | Mandatory January 2026 |
| Data model | Flat form structure | Three schemas: Entity, Dispatch, Incident |
| Incident modules | Fire-centric modules | Fire, EMS, HazMat, Other |
| Required fields | Fixed field set | Module-specific Minimum Essential Information |
| EMS coverage | Limited | Dedicated EMS module with clinical fields |
| HazMat coverage | Basic | Dedicated HazMat module |
| Officer input | Form fields | Form fields + narrative mapping potential |
| Submission | Via state fire marshal systems | Via NERIS portal through RMS |
What This Means for Officers
Every incident report now requires module selection (Fire, EMS, HazMat, or Other), followed by module-specific Minimum Essential Information fields. Officers must understand which module applies to the incident they responded to, and which MEI fields are required for that module. Missing or incorrect module selection affects the entire record.
The increased data quality that NERIS produces is real — but so is the increased burden on officers who are learning these requirements while maintaining operational readiness.
Navigate the NFIRS-to-NERIS Transition
Station Draft helps officers draft NERIS-compliant reports from short narratives. Human review required, always.