Ava Rural Fire reports busy stretch of calls, training

Photo/archives of the Douglas County Herald: Ava Rural Fire Department responds to a scene in February 2026.

The Ava Rural Fire Department reported a busy stretch of calls and training over the past few weeks, including four motor vehicle accidents since April 22 and two reports of unknown fires that were later determined to be controlled burns.

The department reminded residents to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office before burning to report controlled burns. Reporting a burn helps prevent emergency resources from being dispatched unnecessarily.

On Thursday, May 1, at 7:31 p.m., Ava Rural firefighters were dispatched to a motor vehicle accident with entrapment. Upon arrival, firefighters worked with Douglas County Sheriff’s Office deputies to extract one individual, who was then turned over to Cox ambulance. The department responded with Engine 1 with a crew of two, Engine 2 with a crew of three, Brush 2 with a crew of two and one privately owned vehicle.

The department said no further information would be released regarding the patient or vehicle.

As crews were preparing to clear the accident scene, they heard Mansfield Fire Department dispatched to a possible structure fire. Due to the departments’ growing working relationship, Ava Rural asked the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office to contact Mansfield’s dispatch and make Ava Rural available to respond if needed. Crews were initially told they were not needed, but as they left the accident scene, Mansfield requested their response. Ava Rural responded with both engines and was preparing to respond with Tanker 2 when the department was canceled.

In addition to responding to calls, firefighters have also been pressure testing hoses during Monday trainings throughout April. The department noted that many behind-the-scenes tasks are required to keep the department operating properly, and those duties, like emergency responses, are handled by volunteers.

Ava Rural Fire Department is also encouraging community members to consider volunteering. The department allows junior members to begin at age 11. Youth ages 11-13 may serve as training-only juniors, while ages 14-17 may serve as juniors who are able to respond to calls. Those 18 and older may serve as firefighters.

The department also has support roles available for those who do not wish to respond to calls.

“We are proud to serve the citizens of our district,” the department stated.