History
The Willows Fire Department has evolved from a simple bucket brigade into a modern emergency response agency, adapting to the community’s growth and advancements in technology.
Several major fires in the late 1800s led to the formal establishment of organized fire protection in Willows. On May 30, 1882, one of the most destructive fires in the city’s history nearly destroyed the entire downtown, resulting in the loss of 33 buildings and an estimated $200,000 in damages.
Following rebuilding efforts, another devastating fire struck in 1886 in nearly the same location. Fueled by strong winds, the fire destroyed most of the block, sparing only the bank, with losses exceeding $140,000. In addition to rebuilding downtown, the community expanded with the construction of approximately 50 new homes.
These back-to-back disasters demonstrated that a bucket brigade was no longer sufficient to protect the growing city.
In 1887, the Willows Fire Department was formally established with two hose companies equipped with carts carrying axes, ladders, hoses, and nozzles. In 1914, the City acquired its first motorized apparatus, marking a significant advancement in fire response capabilities.
The Department was originally located at City Hall on North Butte Street, now the site of the present-day Willow Walk Mall. In 1962, following the development of the current downtown area, the Department relocated to its present station on South Butte Street.
Department Overview
Today, the Willows Fire Department, in coordination with the Willows Rural Fire Protection District, operates nine fire apparatus. The Department includes four paid staff positions: one Fire Chief, two Fire Captains, and one Fire Engineer.
Emergency response operations are heavily supported by more than 30 volunteer firefighters who serve through the Willows Volunteer Fire Department. Volunteer members play a critical role in emergency response, staffing, and operational support. The Volunteer Fire Department also includes elected officers responsible for organizational leadership and fundraising efforts.
Although career staff provide 24-hour station coverage, volunteer firefighters remain essential to meeting staffing demands during emergency incidents. Many responses require personnel levels beyond available career staff, making volunteer participation a vital component of fire protection services.
Through a coordinated partnership, the Willows Fire Department, Willows Rural Fire Protection District, and the Willows Volunteer Fire Department provide comprehensive fire protection and emergency services to the greater Willows area.
Advanced Life Support (ALS) Program
In 2025, following the closure of the Glenn Medical Center Emergency Room, the Willows Fire Department implemented an Advanced Life Support (ALS) program to enhance emergency medical services within the community.
The ALS program allows trained personnel to provide a higher level of pre-hospital medical care, including advanced airway management, cardiac monitoring, medication administration, and other life-saving interventions. This expansion significantly improves patient care during critical medical emergencies, particularly in situations where transport times to definitive care may be extended.
The implementation of ALS services represents a major advancement in the Department’s capabilities and reflects a continued commitment to adapting to community needs, improving response outcomes, and ensuring access to high-quality emergency medical care.
Ongoing Commitment
As the City of Willows continues to grow and evolve, the Fire Department remains committed to providing reliable, professional fire protection and emergency medical services. Through continued training, modernization, and community partnerships, the Department carries forward a long-standing tradition of service to the community.
