The Kiowa Volunteer Fire Department was established in 1952. It was officially recognized as a special district in March 1983. At its formation, the District was comprised of volunteer personnel who protected the Town of Kiowa and unincorporated areas of Elbert County. The District covers a 324 square mile area of north central Elbert County; the Town of Kiowa and Kiowa C-2 School District lie within the boundaries of the District.
The District Today
Kiowa Fire Protection District is comprised of both paid and volunteer staff. They all receive the same level of training and certification to maintain a high standard of service.
The District continues to assess and improve services to meet the community's needs and maintains transparency and accountability in operations and financial management.
The Kiowa Fire Protection District stands proud in protecting citizens of the District and surrounding areas.
Our Morale Patch
The Kiowa Fire Protection District is proud to present the creation of the District morale patch, a symbol that
represents the dedication, courage and camaraderie of our firefighters. This special patch was designed
through a collaborative effort by Kiowa firefighters, alongside fellow firefighters from other agencies,
bringing together a shared sense of purpose and commitment to our profession.
Encompassing the logo is a black cross-like-figure. This is the Maltese Cross. This is an acknowledgement of our past as firefighters. This cross was worn by Knights of St. John of Jerusalem during the Crusades. During these battles, hundreds of these knights were burned alive as they attempted to crawl up besieged walls. Their courage and sacrifices are the values of what firefighters should embody. This cross now serves as a symbol for protection for firefighters and civilians alike.
The Mammoth serves as a nod to archaeological finds here in Kiowa. In 1945, off of County Road 45, a farmer was tilling his field and found the lower jaw of Wholly Mammoth. The mammoth is wearing a black helmet with a blue helmet shield, with white numbers “221”. Our interior qualified (Firefighter I certified and HAZMAT certified) are given a black helmet, a blue helmet shield with white lettering and stitching. 220 is our department call sign. White and blue are our department colors, however we are unsure why our predecessors chose that color. The mammoth is holding a tool for forcible entry known as a “Halligan”. To the left of the Mammoth is the Colorado flag. To the right of the Mammoth is the US Flag.
The design of the morale patch embodies the spirit of unity and teamwork that is at the heart of firefighting. It stands as a testament to the close bonds formed not only within our own department but also with our partners in service. We believe this patch represents the strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication that we all share as first responders. We are excited to share this symbol with our community, as it highlights the pride we take in serving and protecting you.