Southwest Allen County Fire District

09/27/2026

Our thoughts are with our brothers and sisters of the Fort Wayne Fire Department as they mourn the loss of Captain Andrea Burton.

We stand with the FWFD family, as well as Captain Burton’s family, friends, and loved ones, during this difficult time.

This morning, we are grieving the loss of Captain Andrea Burton. Andrea was a true friend to so many of us and an amazing person whose positive energy was contagious. She was an incredible asset to our department and the community we serve, with a bright future ahead of her. Her loss is felt deeply across our entire fire family.

This loss is especially painful as it comes on the same day we remember and honor Captain Eric Balliet, #510, who died in the line of duty on September 27, 2017.

Please keep Andrea’s family, friends, and crew in your thoughts. Funeral details will be shared as soon as they are available.

Rest easy, Captain. We’ll take it from here.

09/25/2026

09/24/2026

PUBLIC NOTICE: Allen County Fire & EMS District Board Meeting

The Board of Trustees of the Allen County Fire & EMS District will hold a public meeting on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 11:30 A.M.

Location: Base 10, Door #15 | 910 Hartzell, New Haven, IN 46774

The board will take up several important items regarding our district's continued unification and operations, including:
• Oaths of Office for incoming board members
• Fire Chief Report covering command structure, office space, and quarterly updates
• Key Budget & Financial Discussions (2027 District Budget, Tax Levy, and DLGF Appeal)
• District Legal Updates (Remote Participation Policy, Bylaws/Committees, and Conflict of Interest Policies)
• Public Comment & Input Period

For the complete agenda, archived meeting minutes, or to access a recording following the meeting, visit https://allencountyfire.org/board-meeting-information

09/11/2026

Today, we pause to remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and honor the courage and sacrifice of the first responders who answered the call.

We remember the 343 FDNY firefighters, along with the law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, and countless others who gave everything in service to others.

Their courage, sacrifice, and legacy will never be forgotten.

08/01/2026

Today, our crews participated in a large-scale, multi-agency training exercise led by the Allen County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC).

The exercise simulated an anhydrous ammonia leak at MacroSource in Yoder, allowing responders to work through a realistic hazardous materials incident within our response area.

Throughout the several-hour drill, crews practiced the entire incident response process, including initial operations, incident command, hazardous materials mitigation, unified command, public warning and public messaging planning, and coordination between numerous responding agencies.

Participating agencies included the Fort Wayne Fire Department HAZMAT Team, Air National Guard HAZMAT Team, Northwest Fire District, Allen County Police, Fort Wayne Police Air Support Unit, Allen County Homeland Security, and other local partners.

Training like this strengthens the relationships and coordination between agencies before a real emergency occurs. We appreciate the Allen County LEPC for organizing this exercise and thank all of our partner agencies for their commitment to preparedness and public safety.

08/01/2026

Today, our crews spent time training on low angle rope rescue operations.

This type of rescue technique is used to safely remove patients from areas with steep terrain, such as embankments along the interstate, ravines, and other difficult-to-access locations.

Throughout the training, our firefighters practiced rope handling, team communication, and patient packaging to ensure rescues can be performed safely and efficiently when every second counts.

We are fortunate to have several members of our department who have furthered their education and earned certification as Rope Rescue Technicians. Their willingness to share their knowledge and experience allows us to continue building these skills within our department and better prepare our crews for these rescue situations.

07/10/2026

06/28/2026

This past week, we had the opportunity to recognize some important milestones during our Badge Pinning Ceremony.

Since our last pinning ceremony in August 2025, 14 career Firefighter/EMTs and Firefighter/Paramedics have joined the Southwest Allen County Fire District and were officially pinned with their badges. It's always a special moment to see family, friends, and coworkers there to share in the occasion.

We also recognized 6 members who were promoted to Lieutenant and 3 members who were promoted to Battalion Chief. These individuals have worked hard to earn their new roles, and we're excited to see them continue serving our department and community as leaders.

A badge is more than just part of the uniform. It represents the responsibility that comes with serving others and the commitment our members make every time they answer the call.

Congratulations to all of our newly pinned members and promoted officers. Thank you to the families, friends, and coworkers who came out to celebrate with them. We're proud of each of you and look forward to what you'll accomplish in your new roles.

05/11/2026

Saturday, crews from Southwest Fire District and West Central Fire District participated in a joint training sessions at the focused on scenario-based fireground operations. Members rotated through multiple assignments practicing hose advancement, flow and move operations, forcible entry, door and window initiated searches, victim removal and treatment, and command responsibilities as the first-due officer.

Training together strengthens our partnerships, sharpens our skills, and ensures we are prepared to serve our communities safely and effectively.

05/01/2026

This week, we took possession of a new ladder truck, Truck 57. This 100-foot aerial will serve the citizens of Southwest Fire District, along with Allen County and our surrounding communities, for many years to come.

Ordered in December 2021 to replace a 1997 ladder truck, this addition reflects our continued commitment to providing reliable, high-quality service. We’re grateful for the ongoing support of our community and look forward to putting Truck 57 to work.