National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS)

Empowering fire and emergency services by equipping them with timely information and analytic tools that support data informed decision-making.
National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) Program
  • Overview
  • Updates
  • Resources
  • News

The National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) is a mission-critical, all-hazards emergency reporting system built to meet the evolving needs of America’s fire service. It replaces the 40-year-old legacy platform, the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS), with a modern solution that delivers timely intelligence, advanced analytics, and seamless interoperability—helping departments respond more effectively to fire-related incidents and other emergencies.

NERIS is a secure, cloud-based platform that allows agencies to enter, manage, and use their own data. With a strong focus on fire and public safety, it provides new tools to improve decision-making, resource allocation, and preparedness at local, regional, and national levels. 

“By improving how incident data is collected and used, NERIS supports more informed decisions at every level of the fire service.”
—Steve Kerber, vice president and executive director, FSRI

The NERIS platform is being developed through a national collaboration led by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T), and the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), part of UL Research Institutes. Extensive feedback from early adopter departments shaped the system to better serve the fire and emergency services community. 

Key Features 

  • Zero-cost access for fire departments, EMS agencies, and State Fire Marshal Offices—ensuring that public safety agencies can adopt the system without financial barriers. 

  • Local data ownership guarantees departments retain full control of how their fire information is managed and shared. 

  • Built on a GIS foundation, geocoding incident data for location-based reporting and strategic planning. 

  • Actionable intelligence to enhance coordination and improve outcomes for fire-related incidents. 

“As risks evolve, so must our understanding of them. NERIS is designed to adapt—giving fire departments, state fire marshals and the USFA access to relevant data to guide their response, planning, and resource decisions.” 
—Craig Weinschenk, principal investigator, FSRI 

NERIS is rolling out nationwide throughout 2025 through a phased approach. Onboarding includes training resources, helpdesk assistance, and integration partner coordination to ensure a smooth transition to the next generation of emergency reporting. 

Visit the NERIS website.  

Sign up for the NERIS Newsletter. 

For questions about this program, please contact the NERIS Help Desk. 

Published: May 1, 2025

Subscribe to the NERIS Mailing List

Stay Informed
Chief Mary Cameli, Deputy Chief Billy Goldfeder, Chief John Morrison, and Chief Tom Jenkins (Ret.)

NERIS Version 1: Platform Launch and National Rollout” Webinar

Webinar

Watch On-Demand Access to “NERIS Version 1: Platform Launch and National Rollout” Webinar

About the National Emergency Response Information System

Learn More