Severide and Van Meter’s fate hangs in the balance as Firehouse 51 faces growing danger and city cuts

When and Where to Watch

Chicago Fire Season 14, Episode 8 returns with its winter premiere on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 9 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. CT on NBC. If you miss the broadcast, don’t worry—Peacock will stream the episode the next day.

Peacock offers two plans:

• Premium (with ads) for $10.99/month

• Premium Plus (ad-free) for $16.99/month
  Discounts and bundle deals with Apple TV are also available for subscribers.

What Happened Last Time: The Fall Finale Recap

Episode 7 left viewers stunned. A school fire—set intentionally—triggered an arson investigation. While no students were inside, a janitor was rescued just in time. Squad found traces of gasoline near a scorched coffee machine, proving it wasn’t accidental.

The case took a dark turn when Severide and Van Meter uncovered a social media group of students who were targeting the school’s principal, Mr. Cole. Before they could identify the ringleader, tragedy struck: the principal’s apartment went up in flames—with Severide, Van Meter, and Cole still inside.

The screen faded to black with fire closing in. Fans were left asking: Will they make it out alive?

What to Expect in Episode 8

Episode 8 picks up right where the cliffhanger left off. Severide, Van Meter, and Principal Cole are still trapped in the burning apartment—and time is running out.

Expect intense, edge-of-your-seat action as Firehouse 51 mounts a daring rescue. The emotional stakes are high, not just because of the fire, but because the identity of the arsonist remains unknown. Several students from the suspicious social group are still under scrutiny.

Meanwhile, back at the station, trouble is brewing. The city is considering diverting fire department funds to schools, and Engine 51 could be on the chopping block. This puts Mouch’s team in serious jeopardy.

Chief Pascal is expected to play a major role in the episode as he searches for solutions to keep the team intact—while juggling political pressure and budget constraints.

More Drama Ahead for Firehouse 51

Episode 8 will explore not only physical dangers but emotional and professional ones too. As always, the team’s loyalty to one another will be tested—especially with the looming threat of permanent changes to their station.

Can Firehouse 51 survive the fire and the funding battle? Will the truth about the arson plot finally be uncovered?