MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
As Fire Prevention Week gets underway, Reno County fire officials are reminding residents about the vital role volunteer firefighters play in protecting rural communities — and the need for more people to step up and serve.
Travis Vogt, Fire Administrator for Reno County, and Dave Yoder, Fire Chief for Reno County Fire District 8, joined the BW Morning Show this week to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing local fire districts.
“Every firefighter we have is a volunteer,” Vogt said. “Even our chiefs are volunteers. Volunteerism has dropped significantly over the last 20 years, so finding people willing to give their time has become harder.”
To help meet that challenge, the county has developed a junior firefighter program that begins at age 16. Students gain hands-on experience and training under supervision, giving them an opportunity to decide if firefighting is a path they want to pursue.
“It’s a great way for young people to learn a skill, serve their community, and maybe even make a career out of it,” Vogt said. “We’ve had several who started as juniors and went on to full-time fire service.”
Every volunteer is required to complete the Firefighter I course through Hutchinson Community College within their first two years. Vogt said the county covers all costs — and even compensates volunteers for their time spent in training.
Fire District Consolidation Aims to Improve Response Times
Vogt confirmed that the recently approved consolidation of rural fire districts will officially take effect January 1, 2026, creating the new Reno County Fire District No. 1. The change, approved in July, is expected to streamline operations and enhance emergency response.
“By merging, we can immediately send more equipment and personnel to a scene without waiting for mutual aid,” Vogt explained. “It allows us to better coordinate coverage across the county and ultimately reduce response times.”
The county will continue to maintain strong mutual aid agreements with neighboring departments in Harvey, Rice, Pratt, Stafford, and Sedgwick counties, as well as the City of Hutchinson Fire Department. Many of those surrounding agencies also rely heavily on volunteers.
Preparing for Fire Season
Both Vogt and Yoder urged residents to take preventive steps as wildfire season approaches. That includes clearing brush, cutting back overgrown vegetation, and keeping combustible materials — such as stacked firewood — away from homes and buildings.
“Give us room to work if we need to protect your property,” Yoder said. “A simple thing like moving your firewood pile a few feet away from your house can make a big difference.”
How to Get Involved
Those interested in volunteering can contact the Reno County Emergency Management Office or reach out directly to their local fire district.
“Anyone who wants to give back to their community can make a difference,” Vogt said. “We’ll help them through every step — from training to joining a department. It’s one of the most rewarding ways to serve your neighbors.”