KWFD History

The history of the Key West Fire Department dates back to February 1953, when a group of dedicated community members established the Key West Farm Protective Association. Their goal was simple but essential: to provide fire protection for the residents, farms, and businesses in the area. At the time, the community members paid an initial fee of $50 for residence or farm protection and $100 for business protection, plus an annual fee of $5. Farms with multiple dwellings were charged $50 for each additional dwelling.

By the end of the first year, the association had 275 members, 11 of whom were businesses. The protection offered was unique, as it was based on a simple yet effective system: members filled out a card with their name, address, phone number, and specific directions to their property. One such card, dated February 2, 1953, even featured a map detailing building locations and nearby water sources for firefighting efforts.

Early Days and Fire Response System

In those early days, when a fire occurred, members would call one of three phone numbers listed on a sticker placed on their phone. Whoever answered would rush to the fire department to set off the alarm, which alerted the volunteers. The volunteers would then gear up at the fire station and respond, following the directions provided on the cards. Those who did not participate in the fire protection program were left to face the consequences on their own, with the fire department simply standing by as their property burned.

One famous story from the early years recounts a man attempting to fight a fire on his own with nothing more than a garden hose, illustrating the importance of the community fire protection program.

First Fire Trucks and Growth

The first fire truck was purchased on April 6, 1953, an International R185-6 with a 500 GPM Champion pump. It was purchased for $11,954 and had a 6-cylinder engine and 5-speed transmission. A second truck, a 1961 Jeep Fire Truck, was acquired on March 16, 1964, for $4,500. It was equipped with a 6-cylinder engine.

To support these new vehicles, volunteers were required to pass a Red Cross basic first aid course, and regular drills were held, particularly during the summer months. Many of the fire department’s volunteers also held jobs in the nearby city of Dubuque. The department’s territory extended 15 miles south, 1.5 miles north to Dubuque, and 6 miles east to the Mississippi River. The service area also included the communities of Otter Creek, Zwingle, New Melleray, and Bernard.

Modern-Day Department

As of 2025, the Key West Fire Department has grown significantly in terms of equipment and personnel. The department currently operates four fire trucks, two ambulances, a rescue boat, and a Gator for off-road rescue operations. The trucks include:

• Engine (1102) – Holds 1,200 gallons of water.
• Tanker (1135) – Carries 1,800 gallons of water and is capable of pumping water.
• Grass Truck (1145) – Holds 300 gallons and is used for areas difficult to access by other trucks.
• Utility/Personnel Transport Truck (1173) – Used for transporting extra personnel and equipment.
• Gator (1141) – Used for off road operations equipped with a 60-gallon tank and a pump, to assist with fighting fires deep in the woods and to evacuate injured individuals.

• Ambulance (1151) 
• Ambulance (1152)

Emergency Medical Services

The Key West Fire Department's ambulance service began in January 2004, providing emergency medical support when needed. Prior to this, the department relied on mutual aid from Dubuque. In 2012, recognizing the growing need for more resources, the department purchased a second ambulance. Both ambulances (1151 & 1152) are equipped with the latest life-saving technology.

Training and Certification

To ensure the highest level of service, all Key West firefighters are required to complete Firefighter 1 certification and obtain Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification. The department holds regular training sessions twice a month, with additional medical training each month. Monthly meetings are also held to discuss updates and enhance skills.

Looking Ahead

The Key West Fire Department continues to evolve with the needs of the community, expanding services, and improving equipment to keep pace with modern challenges. The legacy of community involvement and commitment to protecting lives and property remains at the heart of the department’s mission.

Stay tuned for more updates and additions to the history of the Key West Fire Department as we continue to serve and protect.