The residents of the townships paid a $5 fee for coverage. When a fire broke out, the chief would call a few members, and their wifes contacted the rest.
Since 1963, the fire department has grown into a well equiped service, and with the 911 system and the use of portable radios, the communications has greatly improved. The department is self-governing which they have to levy their own taxes.
In 1980 The Britt hall moved to their new site (right next door) to accommodate the growing number of trucks. They dedicated the hall as the Filter-Jarvi Hall. Approximately in 1992 they expanded the hall and named the new addition the Veterans Memorial Addition.
In 1988, the Emergency medical services were born, with 6 first responders and e.m.t.'s. They answer all medical calls , which include home emergencys to accidents on and off road.
The fire department has a fleet of 8 trucks, four in each hall. In the pike hall they have truck 1: a 95 International tanker, truck 3: a 78 Ford pumper, truck 5:a 86 Chevy one ton tactical, and brutus: 86 Chevy brush truck. In the britt hall they have truck 2:a 96 International tanker, truck 4: a 2000 International class A pumper, truck 6: 86 Chevy rescue truck hauling the jaws of life, and truck 8 (warwagon): a 77 Dodge brush truck.
Besides providing coverage to their own territory, they provide mutual aide to other departments and to the Minnesota DNR. They also provide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) with first responders and EMT's.
The department is strictly volunteer. All members volunteer their time and service to the community. They have monthly meetings and trainings. The average length of service is 20 years. They are actively recruiting new members.