Our History
On May 10, 1947, the Toledo Fire Department was established following a decisive vote by the community in a special election.
Originally part of the City of Toledo, the department officially became an independent entity known as Lewis County Fire District 2 on February 3, 1986. However, it continues to be widely recognized as the Toledo Fire Department to this day.
For many years, the department operated solely with volunteer firefighters. In July 2022, a significant transformation occurred when full-time Firefighter/EMTs were hired, marking the evolution into a combination department that now integrates both career and volunteer firefighters and EMTs. This transition enhances our capacity to respond to emergencies while maintaining our commitment to community service.
About Us
The Toledo Fire Department proudly reintroduced its original fire engine, a 1939 Dodge Open Cab Pumper, to the public at the 2024 Cheese Days event. This remarkable restoration project was made possible thanks to the generous donations from our supportive Toledo community to the Volunteer Firefighters Association.
Commissioner Anthony “John” Borte played a pivotal role in coordinating efforts with our dedicated volunteers and Jerry “JJ” Armstead, ensuring that this cherished piece of history was brought back to life. The restored fire engine stands as a testament to our community's commitment to preserving our rich heritage while honoring the brave service of our firefighters.
The jurisdiction of District 2 encompasses an expansive 98 square miles, serving over 7,000 residents who depend on our dedicated and professional services.
The Toledo Fire Department operates as a combination department, incorporating both volunteer and full-time EMT/firefighters. Our team is further supported by a district manager, a training officer, and a public safety officer. Together, we respond to an average of nearly 900 emergency calls annually, in addition to providing crucial mutual aid to neighboring districts. This unwavering commitment to community safety highlights our preparedness to tackle a wide range of emergencies with efficiency and skill.
The District is governed by a Board of Commissioners, composed of three elected members, each serving a six-year term. This Board plays a vital role in overseeing the operational and financial decisions that ensure the district functions effectively and efficiently.
Daily operations are adeptly managed by the District Fire Chief, who leads our dedicated team in delivering high-quality emergency services while maintaining our readiness to respond to any situation that may arise. As part of our commitment to enhancing community care, we will begin transitioning to include full-time paramedic/firefighters starting in 2025, as we implement our new Advanced Life Support (ALS) program. This initiative reflects our focus on continuous improvement and community engagement, strengthening our mission to protect and serve the residents of District 2.