A volunteer fire department is at the heart of every rural community.  ❤️    These brave and heroic people give their time to protect and serve the community. Frontline firefighters put out fires, respond to vehicle accidents, provide search and rescue support, and deal with hazardous situations all on their own time. Their reward is simple, lives and property saved. 

This month, the Cuba Fire Department (CFD) will hit the mark of 90 years of official service to Cuba residents, local businesses, and visitors to the area. From a bucket brigade to a city well and one fire hose, Cuba’s Fire and Rescue has come a long way.

On February 5, 1934, Cuba’s first Volunteer Fire Department was officially organized with 15 members. Later that same year in the middle of the Great Depression, the first firehouse was built at the corner of Smith and Spencer Streets. 

Today, the Cuba Fire Department  is still an all volunteer department. With two local stations, one in Cuba and the other on Highway DD, the CFD responds to over 300 calls annually.  As a rural river resort community, calls go beyond just structure fires and vehicle accidents. The CFD is equipped to provide support for search and rescue operations along with water rescue. 

After decades of service, the CFD is stronger than ever. Feel safe knowing there are 24 volunteer firefighters on the current roster, two fire stations, and state-of-the-art equipment ready to save lives and property at any moment. 

“Our goal is to provide fire prevention and public education that supports the safety of our residents, businesses, and companies within our District,”  explains Chief Mike Plank of the Cuba Fire Prevention District.  Plank has served as Cuba Fire Chief since 1998 and has been with the fire department since 1983. 

In addition, the CFD goes even further to support the town and the many festivals, projects, and celebrations. Just recently, the CFD assisted Viva Cuba with the watering of the newly planted trees along Highway 19. Grateful for their help, Viva Cuba appreciates CFDs continued support in the beautification projects for our community.

🔥  “Volunteers make up 55% of all active US firefighters.” 🔥 

Do you have what it takes to be a volunteer firefighter? Being a volunteer firefighter is a meaningful way to pay it forward or give back to the community. Learn how to become a volunteer firefighter in your community. 

If you’d like to learn more about how to support or join the Cuba Fire Department District,  start here.

Viva Cuba, founded in 1984 by Peoples Bank, continues to coordinate beautification projects in the city of Cuba, Missouri. To learn more about Viva Cuba, contact us at vivacuba@cubamomurals.com

 

Source: Celebrating 150 Years, Cuba Missouri. Cuba Volunteer Fire Department, p 128.