Rural Fire Department

Burn Restrictions

In an effort to reduce the impact of burning on air quality in downwind areas, Geary County has placed restrictions on burning during the month of April. The only burning that will be authorized will be range or pasture management and Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). No brush or tree limb pile burns will be authorized during the month of April. If you have any questions concerning restrictions or any other burns, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 785-238-1290.

Department Overview

The department handles calls throughout Geary County with the exception of the Southeast area of the County which is handled by the Alta Vista Rural Fire Department and the Dwight Fire District.

The Geary County Rural Fire Department operates 16 trucks out of 9 stations located throughout Geary County and relies on volunteers to operate the trucks. 

In 2020, the department responded to 120 fire and medical calls in Geary County. Average response time, from the time of the call to the arrival of trucks on the scene, was 9 minutes 54 seconds.

Milford Township

Milford Township Firefighters have gone a step further and handle first responder medical calls in their area and the City of Milford. The first responders are Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) level or above and are on the scene providing medical care prior to the arrival of the ambulance.

Burn Permits

Persons wanting to burn in the County must have a valid burn permit that is issued by the department prior to starting the burn. The permit is good for the calendar year. View the Burn Permit Page for more information. For information about the Geary County Burn Resolution, view the Fire Resolution (PDF).

Volunteer Firefighters & Training

Monthly training is available for volunteer firefighters. The training helps the firefighters feel confident as they do their job at the fire scene. View the Training Schedule Page for more information.

We are always looking for rural residents of Geary County, both male and female to become volunteer firefighters. To volunteer, view the Fire Department Application (PDF). Contact the Geary County Rural Fire Department at 785-238-1290 or email the Fire Chief, Garry Berges. 

Applications can be dropped off at our offices located at 236 E 8th Street. We ask that the volunteers live in the rural areas of Geary County, as that is where the fire units are stationed.

Community Activities

Geary County Rural Fire is proud to be involved in our community. View the GEFD Community Activities Page to see photos of the activities that we have participated in.