The Marion Fire Department must be trained in multiple areas of rescue to provide the most adept services possible for the citizens of Marion. Fighting fires and responding to medical emergencies are the majority of the calls received by the department, but situations do arise that require specialized response.

All firefighters are cross-trained in the following types of emergencies: structural fires, wildland fire (grass, and field), vehicle fires, fire rescue, hazardous materials operations, basic vehicle extrication, collapse stabilization, ice rescue, water rescue, ground search rescue, trauma emergencies, medical emergencies, etc.

The department is currently working towards training a team of 16 firefighters to be certified at a technician level.  The rest of the department will be certified at the operations level.