The Galva Volunteer Fire Department consists of 100% volunteer firefighters dedicated to protecting lives and property in Galva and surrounding areas, carrying a proud history of service since 1879.

How and What They Operate

The all-volunteer department specializes in fire suppression, vehicle extraction and disaster services. They are also members in the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS).

  • Maximum volunteer firefighter membership: 32
  • Equipment: 2 Brush Trucks, 1 Mini Rescue, 2 Engines, and a Tender
  • Members of: MABAS 31 and MABAS 39
  • Average calls a year: 150 
  • Meetings: Meeting and detail is held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:00pm. 
  • Trainings: 3rd Tuesday of each month. Each year 3 trainings are required and they are Bloodborne Pathogens, CPR and Hazardous Materials Awareness 

How to Become a Volunteer Fire Fighter

We’re always looking for reliable community members interested in becoming volunteer firefighters. To set up a tour or get an application please call the non-emergency number for the fire station at (309) 932-2114 and leave a message. New members will be on probation for 12 months or until cleared by the chiefs or the training officers. In that 12-month basic firefighter or essentials is required.

Contact the Fire Department

Chief: Nate Byers
Address: 210 Front Street, Galva, IL 61434
Phone: (309) 932-2114 (NOT FOR EMERGENCIES!)

Galva Fire Chiefs

Nate Byers 2020

Denny Tarleton 2001

Jerry Hoxworth 1993

Ralph Haga Sr. 1991

Keith Carter 1974

William Quinney 1972

Alreck Ericson 1970

Walter Annis 1956

Clark Smith 1931

Charles McBride 1930

B. P. McFadden 1921

Hal Bailey 1911

J. P. Gibbs 1907

Thomas McKanna 1900

J. P. Gibbs 1888

E. O. Sutphin 1887

O. A. Hempstead 1885

J. P. Gibbs 1885

Thomas McKanna 1884

C. B. Edson 1883

Oscar Smalley 1881

Obed Price 1880

Job Babbitt 1879