As the team on “Fire Country” begins to move forward from Vince Leone’s (Billy Burke) passing, the hunt for a new deputy battalion chief intensifies. While Vince’s son, Bode (Max Thieriot), might seem like the natural successor, Jake Crawford (Jordan Calloway) emerges as a strong contender.

Unlike the emotionally struggling Bode, Jake displays a steadfast commitment to the mission. He remains focused on rescuing people and adhering to protocol, showcasing qualities that suggest he’s ready for greater responsibilities. This episode provides significant hints of Jake’s potential ascent within the ranks.

During a fire emergency in the woods, the team encounters a homeless encampment. Under orders from the newly appointed battalion chief Brett Richards (Shawn Hatosy), Jake prioritizes evacuating everyone swiftly. In contrast, Bode’s compassionate delay to save a dog and allow residents more time to pack nearly leads to disaster. Jake reluctantly agrees to Bode’s approach, but the ensuing chaos from an illegal generator and fleeing crowd worsens the situation.

Fortunately, the crisis ends without casualties. Despite contemplating a departure from the Edgewater Fire Department, Jake decides to stay, influenced by a heartfelt conversation with his girlfriend, Violet (Nesta Cooper). She persuades him that his place is in Edgewater, a realization reinforced during his firefighting efforts.

Everyone ends up surviving — and having canceled his plans to leave the Edgewater Fire Department, it looks like Jake will stick around to help with many more rescues. While things seemed a bit dicey for a while, with him telling Bode during Vince’s memorial service that he was strongly considering leaving, he ultimately has a heart-to-heart with his girlfriend, Violet (Nesta Cooper). She’s the one who tells him he belongs in Edgewater, and working the fire makes him realize she’s right.

Jake confirms that he won’t be taking a position away from Station 42. While he might not be second-in-command yet — and may have missed out on becoming battalion chief thanks to Brett being the new hire — it’s clear that Jake’s serious about his job and prepared to do what he needs to do to climb the firehouse’s ladder. No matter what happens, it looks like Jake will be a formidable foe — and an equally important friend — for Bode, just as he’s always been.