Fire & Rescue

Frequently Asked Questions
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Hastings Fire & Rescue is dedicated to protecting and serving our community through emergency response, prevention, education, and outreach. Our firefighters and paramedics are available 24 hours a day to respond to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, rescues, and other situations where help is needed most. Equipped with specialized apparatus and advanced equipment, our crews respond quickly and professionally to emergencies throughout Hastings and the surrounding area.

Beyond emergency response, Hastings Fire & Rescue is committed to building a safer community through fire prevention programs, public education, building inspections, and collaborative planning efforts. We believe that protecting our community starts long before an emergency occurs by helping residents, businesses, and visitors stay informed and prepared.

Operating in an ISO Class 2-rated community, Hastings Fire & Rescue serves more than 25,000 residents across 13.67 square miles from two fire stations. With 34 sworn firefighters and four administrative staff members, we are proud to provide premier emergency services while building strong relationships with the people we serve every day.

Our History

Hastings' first volunteer fire department was established in 1878, equipped with a hand-pump engine, hook and ladder wagon, and a small fire station where a bell summoned firefighters to emergencies. Just one year later, the city experienced its most devastating fire, destroying 33 buildings and reinforcing the need for organized fire protection.

The department reorganized in 1881, and on April 12, 1887, Hastings hired its first career Fire Chief and three full-time firefighters, marking the beginning of professional fire service in the community.

As Hastings grew, so did its fire department. A new station opened in 1889, today's Station 1 was constructed in 1985, and Station 2 followed in 1992, improving emergency response throughout the city.

The department evolved from hand-drawn apparatus and horse teams to motorized fire trucks beginning with a 1917 Ford Model T. Today, Hastings Fire & Rescue operates a modern fleet of fire engines, aerial apparatus, rescue units, ambulances, and specialty response vehicles while proudly preserving its historic 1936 American LaFrance.

In 2002, Hastings Fire & Rescue became one of Nebraska's Regional Hazardous Materials Response Teams, expanding its ability to serve communities throughout south-central Nebraska. The department also works closely with the Hastings Rural Fire District to provide fire protection across approximately 155 square miles of Adams and Clay Counties.

Honoring Our Legacy

The dedication of those who came before us has built the department we proudly serve today. We honor the sacrifice of firefighters Fred W. Raney and Harley A. Mullen, who gave their lives in the line of duty, and recognize the leadership of every Fire Chief—from John D. Crans in 1878 to Chief Troy Vorderstrasse, who continues to lead the department today.

Nearly 150 years after our founding, Hastings Fire & Rescue remains committed to preserving our history while preparing for the future.

Always Prepared. Always Accountable.

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