Public Safety - County Fire Departments Report Uptick in Calls and Prepare for Summer Conditions

Read below to learn more about the County Fire Department updates!!!!

Rachel Dahl
Yesterday, 09:44 AM

Public Safety - County Fire Departments Report Uptick in Calls and Prepare for Summer Conditions — Lovelock and Rye Patch fire crews responded to a fast-moving brush fire between mile markers 122 and 124 on I-80 westbound. The blaze was contained with mutual aid from BLM, stopping just past mile marker 124½. No injuries were reported.

As temperatures rise and wind picks up across Pershing County, local fire departments are seeing a sharp increase in activity and preparing for what could be a busy fire season.

At their June 4 meeting, the Pershing County Commission heard reports from Rye Patch, Lovelock, and Imlay fire departments, each outlining recent calls and seasonal plans.

Rye Patch Fire Department

Captain James Drake reported a noticeable spike in calls, saying the year started quietly but has picked up rapidly.

“It seems like somebody flipped a switch,” he said.

Since mid-May, the department has responded to seven additional calls, including four fire incidents and three medicals. One fire call turned out to be a false alarm—strong winds had stirred ash in a previously burned area, prompting concern from residents.

Training efforts are underway for new volunteers, with a focus on tender operations and water fills. Improvements have also been made to the department’s shower facilities, making the station more functional for hot summer responses.

Lovelock Fire Department

Though no formal report was given, the Lovelock department was included in the county-wide equipment planning. A major focus is the approval and purchase of a new rescue truck chassis and utility box, which will be outfitted and delivered by the end of June. The truck is expected to support both medical and fire response.

Officials confirmed the vehicle will be funded through the 2024–2025 budget and optional tax revenues. The total cost, including the utility body and slide-in components, is just over $94,000.

Imlay Fire Department

The Imlay team reported three calls in May, including two highway accidents and a vehicle fire in a canyon that burned into nearby brush.

Training is scheduled for June 8, and the department plans to participate in the Father’s Day parade with a crowd-pleasing display involving their water tender.

It was noted that the Imlay burn ban will go into effect on June 6 and remain in place until further notice, in alignment with regional fire conditions.

County emergency services remain fully staffed heading into the summer, and commissioners thanked the departments for their efforts to keep rural areas protected and prepared.

“It’s good to see everyone training, communicating, and staying ahead of what could be a long season,” Chairman Joe Crim said.