Incident reporting in Texas is not mandatory; and does not have a dedicated state-level system for collecting and managing this data. Instead, Texas fire departments contribute through the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS).  NERIS is an online tool supported by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology that improves how fire incidents are reported and analyzed.

NERIS replaced the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) in 2026 becoming the main source of information and detailed analysis on fire issues in the United States. Without robust participation from Texas fire departments, the picture of fire incidents in Texas is incomplete and potentially misleading.

Reporting fire department incident data helps provide data that can be used to:

• Justify fire department budget requests and provide a basis for resource allocation; to understand fire trends, identify emerging hazards, and justify funding for fire prevention programs, training, and equipment. When Texas departments don't report, the state's true needs may be underrepresented, impacting future resource allocation.
• Analyze incident data to identify common scenarios that lead to firefighter injuries or fatalities, allowing for the development of safer tactics and training.
• Summarize annual incident activities; generate statistical reports (see "Statistical data" section below).
• Assess department activity on a national scale, including Emergency Medical Services, department apparatus, wildland fires, and personnel activities.
• Answer questions about nature and causes of injuries, deaths, and property loss resulting from fires.
• Determine needed improvements within the department (e.g. response time, training).
• Predict fire-related problems within your community.
• Measure the success of fire prevention and safety programs; understanding the causes and circumstances of fires allows fire departments to tailor public education campaigns, target high-risk populations, and implement effective fire prevention strategies.
• Qualify for National Assistance to Firefighters grants.

Consistent and accurate reporting demonstrates professionalism and accountability within the fire service. It provides a basis for evaluating performance, identifying areas for improvement, and showcasing the critical role fire departments play in community safety.

Reporting incident data can be done directly through NERIS or a third-party vendor.

The TEXFIRS Section began September 1, 1997, in accordance with Texas Government Code 417.0052: “The state fire marshal, under the direction of the commissioner, is responsible for maintaining and administering the Texas Fire Incident Reporting System.”