At Evans Valley Fire District #6, our mission is to protect lives and property through fire prevention, emergency medical aid, and community service.

Our History

Founded by Volunteers
Evans Valley Fire District #6 was established in 1963 by community volunteers to provide local fire protection. The District’s first fire engine, a 1936 Pirsch, was purchased with donated funds. Bill Simmons, one of the founders, became the first Fire Chief. Early board meetings were held at the Alaskan Cafe near Wimer’s covered bridge, a symbol of our community spirit.

Building Our Foundation
Our first fire station was built on land leased from the Wimer Grange. This station, constructed with donated materials and labor, remains in use today as a space for reserve apparatus and a workout area. In 2007, the Grange donated the land to the District.

Growing Our Fleet
By the late 1960s, the District had expanded its fleet to include two fire engines and a water tender. In 1970, we achieved our first ISO rating of 9b, which helped lower fire insurance costs for the community.

Milestones Through the Decades

1970s and 1980s
In 1978, voters approved a tax base, allowing us to hire our first permanent Fire Chief, Scott Lochard, and further improve our services. By 1979, our ISO rating improved to 8b.
The 1980s brought even more progress, with voter-approved levies funding a new fire station in 1981 and new apparatus in 1985. In 1994, we acquired property for future training grounds.

1990s
The 1990s were challenging due to state-mandated training requirements, budget constraints from Measure 47, and the growing need for volunteers. Despite these obstacles, the District continued to adapt and serve the community.

2000s
In 2004, voters approved a levy to update our fleet, allowing us to purchase a new rescue unit and water tender. By the end of the decade, most of our equipment met industry standards.

2010s
Under Fire Chief Bill Fuller’s leadership, we focused on staffing improvements. In 2010, voters approved an operations tax levy, enabling the launch of our award-winning Student Staffing Program. This program reduces response times while supporting college students in exchange for their service. The levy was renewed in 2014 and 2021, reflecting strong community support.

Today

Evans Valley Fire District #6 is proud to serve the Wimer community with:

• Eight fire/rescue apparatus
• Full-time and part-time employees
• Volunteer firefighters
• Support service volunteers

Since 1963, over 300 dedicated individuals have served in our District. Their contributions, combined with strong leadership and community support, ensure we remain ready to face future challenges.

We are proud of our history and excited about what lies ahead.

Together, we will continue to serve and protect Evans Valley.

Tom Davidson
Fire Chief