During a recent commission meeting, discussions centered on the county's fire department operations and volunteer recruitment efforts. The commissioner reported a recent uptick in fire incidents, particularly in Fort Riley, attributed to dry conditions and predicted winds. As a precaution, the department anticipates implementing more no-burning days until moisture levels improve.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing training initiatives for fire personnel, including a collaboration with Fort Riley for a car fire simulation exercise. This training aims to enhance the skills of firefighters in handling various emergency scenarios, particularly in areas lacking immediate water access.

Additionally, the commissioner noted a slight increase in volunteer numbers compared to the previous year, emphasizing the need for more active volunteers across the county. The unique situation of Riley, which maintains its own volunteer fire department, was acknowledged, with the commissioner expressing satisfaction with the cooperative relationship between the departments.

Plans for upgrading fire station facilities were discussed, with funding secured for improvements. The commissioner assured that relevant paperwork would be finalized in the coming week to facilitate these upgrades.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of preparedness and community involvement in enhancing fire safety and response capabilities within the county.