Now Accepting Burn Permits Online or In Person
About Us
OUR MISSION
Saving Lives, Protecting Our Neighbors
The Southeast Rural Fire Department is dedicated to providing professional fire protection, emergency medical response, and life safety programs. Our mission is built on a foundation of courage and community service, ensuring the safety and well-being of every resident in Lancaster County.
A Legacy of Service
The Southeast Rural Fire Department's journey began in 1962, when a group of dedicated local farmers and residents recognized the urgent need for organized fire protection in our rural corridors. Starting with a single truck and a spirit of neighborly vigilance, our founders built the bedrock of service and trust that sustains our community to this day.
Over the decades, we have evolved from a grassroots volunteer initiative into a professionally equipped emergency response force. We now have twelve apparatuses and provide fire protections as well as advanced life support service. While our technology and fleet have modernized, our core mission remains unchanged: prioritizing fire safety, rapid response, and communal well-being. Every life protected and property saved is a continuation of our enduring legacy of courage.
John Wiese
FIRE CHIEF
EMT
Rich Hansen
CAPTAIN
Department Leadership
Meet the dedicated professional and volunteer responders working 24/7 to safeguard the lives and property of our Southeast Rural neighbors.
Sheila Grummert
CAPTAIN
PARAMEDIC
Mike Paulsen
ASSISTANT CHIEF
EMT
Dylan Bryant
CAPTAIN
EMT
Kirk Bryant
ASSISTANT CHIEF
EMT
Zach Felton
CAPTAIN
Our Community Impact
345
45
9
30%
Calls Answered
2025
Providing rapid emergency response and professional medical care 24/7 to neighbors.
Training Events
2025
Continuous preparation with drills and certifications to maintain peak mission readiness.
Community Outreach
2025
Engaging neighbors through fire safety education and public awareness programs.
Volunteer Growth 2025
A growing force of dedicated residents answering the call to protect our district.