In 1986, it was determined that due to the increase in calls and the insufficient funding available that a Fire Protection District be formed. These changes included the development of a very active volunteer organization, new apparatus and equipment and the involvement of many important individuals from the community. Since this time the dedicated members of our organization have seen many changes that come with time. There was, for many years, a siren on the back of the Montezuma Valley National Bank (present Community Bank building), which was touched off from the Telephone Office. The fire hose cart and equipment and perhaps one ladder were behind where the Wilson Building now stands, and next to the alley. It was manned by manpower, or it could be hooked onto a wagon or even horseback drawn vehicle. The fire equipment was purchased which consisted of a two-wheel hose cart with hose rolled on a cylinder. But in 19 the first city water system was completed, and fire hydrants were placed as they thought needed. Water was used from irrigation ditches running along the side streets, a few reservoirs, and a few wells. Since there was no water system, and no need for fire equipment except perhaps a chemical engine, which was expensive, there was no fire department prior to 1911. Jim Gawith was elected Fire Chief and Tom Omo was elected Secretary. At this meeting, enthusiastically attended, were about twenty men. The first formal Fire Department was organized in the spring of 1911. These individuals all volunteered when needed to help their neighbors. These brigades involved local ranchers, farmers and a few regular citizens. During this time the old fashioned bucket brigade was utilized to combat any hazards of fire. The first recognized fire service for the area known as Cortez dates back to the spring of 1886. History of the Cortez Fire Protection District
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