A Closer Look at Fire Safety and Training with the Colby Fire Department
- Derek White
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
by Derek White
Fire safety is a crucial aspect of any community, and the Colby Fire Department is a shining example of dedication, training, and service. In a recent interview with Assistant Chief Luke Gribble and long-time firefighter Dwayne Plumisto, we gained valuable insights into their operations, training procedures, and the importance of community involvement in fire safety.
One of the most striking takeaways from the discussion was the department’s commitment to training. Twice a month, firefighters engage in drills ranging from fire suppression techniques to emergency medical response. This training is essential as modern construction materials and furniture burn much faster than older materials, requiring firefighters to adapt their techniques constantly.
A recent training exercise demonstrated the speed at which fires spread. A small room, furnished to mimic a typical home environment, became fully engulfed in flames in less than six minutes. During the drill, the smoke alarm activated within six seconds, emphasizing how crucial early detection is for survival.
During the drill, firefighters observed the different stages of a fire, from ignition to growth, rollover, flashover, and decay. The thermal imaging data showed temperatures reaching as high as 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit at the ceiling, while the lower parts of the room remained relatively cooler. This is why firefighters emphasize staying low to the ground during a fire.
The experiment also highlighted the dangers of synthetic materials used in modern furniture. Unlike older, solid-wood furnishings, today’s materials release gases that accelerate fire growth. This is an essential lesson for homeowners—being mindful of home materials can impact fire safety.
The Colby Fire Department does more than respond to emergencies; they actively engage with the community through fire prevention efforts. One key initiative is Smoke Detector Saturday, held annually during time change weekend in the fall. Firefighters visit homes, test smoke detectors, and replace batteries to ensure residents have functioning alarms.
Another vital effort is their public outreach in schools. Fire prevention week allows young students to learn about fire safety, experience fire trucks up close, and understand the importance of fire drills. This early education helps instill fire safety awareness from a young age.
Firefighting is more than just a job—it’s a family. The Colby Fire Department covers 535 square miles for fire response and the entire Thomas County for rescue operations. Mutual aid agreements with neighboring communities ensure rapid assistance when large-scale emergencies arise.
The department also thrives on volunteer support, with 75-80% of their personnel being volunteer firefighters. They continue to recruit new members, encouraging young individuals to join and help protect their community.
As the department celebrates 100 years of service in 2025, plans are underway for a community celebration. One proposed idea is an Ice Cream Social, a simple yet meaningful way to bring the community together and appreciate the service of local firefighters.
The dedication of the Colby Fire Department serves as an inspiration to communities everywhere. Through rigorous training, public education, and community engagement, they ensure safety and preparedness for all. Whether responding to emergencies or preventing fires before they start, their mission remains the same—to protect lives and property while fostering a culture of safety and service.
Fire Safety Tips from the Colby Fire Department
Check your smoke detectors regularly. Replace batteries annually and test alarms monthly.
Have an escape plan. Know at least two ways out of every room in your home.
Stay low in a fire. Heat and smoke rise, so staying close to the ground increases your chance of survival.
Don’t wait to call 911. Fires spread rapidly, and every second counts.
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