Lincoln County Volunteer Fire & Rescue

Lincoln County volunteer firefighters and apparatus

Lincoln County, Kansas is protected by seven Volunteer Fire Departments and one Volunteer Rescue, responding to all-hazards incidents across 720+ square miles—from structure and wildland fires to vehicle collisions, medical assists, technical rescue support, and severe-weather response.

Departments & Leadership

  • Barnard Rural Fire Department — Chief Dalton Wirth
  • Beverly Rural Fire Department — Chief Shawn Keim
  • Denmark Rural Fire Department — Chief Ron Nelson
  • Hunter Rural Fire Department — Chief Brad Nitsch
  • Lincoln County Rescue — Chief Greg Babcock
  • Lincoln County 1st Rural Fire Department — Chief Jarrod Heinze
  • Sylvan Grove Rural Fire Department — Chief Mark Lovin
  • Westfall Rural Fire Department — Chief Dennis Ray

Mission & Vision

Our volunteer agencies are committed to public safety and dedicated to the communities we serve. We respond to fires, rescues, and all-hazards incidents to protect life, property, and the environment. We maintain readiness through training, planning, and collaboration with county, municipal, state, federal, and mutual-aid partners.

Volunteer with Your Local Department

No prior experience required—training and gear provided. Contact your department’s chief listed above or reach the County EM office: (785) 524-5005 · This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Outdoor Burning & Fire Weather

  • Always check local restrictions and fire weather before burning.
  • Have water, tools, and people on site; never leave a fire unattended.
  • If winds increase or conditions change—extinguish immediately.

Useful links: Rangeland Fire Danger (NWS) · NWS Wichita

Help Us Find You Faster

  • Post reflective address numbers visible from the road (day/night).
  • Keep driveways/lanes clear and strong enough for heavy trucks.
  • Gate codes on file? Update with your local department or County EM.
When should I call 911?

If there is any immediate threat to life, property, or the environment—call 911. For smoke/CO alarms, visible/smelling smoke, downed power lines, vehicle crashes, brush fires, gas leaks/odors, or someone in distress: call right away.

Can I get a home safety visit or smoke alarm check?

Many departments offer basic home safety checks and smoke-alarm assistance when volunteers are available. Contact your local chief or County EM at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..


Lincoln County Emergency Management
Phone: (785) 524-5005  |  Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.