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Emergency Alert 07-17-2026: THIS IS ONLY INFORMATIONAL - NOT A TRUE EMERGENT ALERT. CANDIDATE FILING IS OPEN UNTIL 5PM ON JULY 28TH, 2026. CONTACT CITY HALL TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO FILE. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: THE ELECTIONS SECTION OF OUR WEBSITES GOVERNMENT PAGE.
Notice 07-17-2026 : Reminder to be aware of wasps this time of year as they get very aggressive. There have been reports of them at the boat landing, public works is doing what they can but there is no nest, it seems they are gathering to make their nests. Please be cautious.

Fire & Rescue

Protecting Our Community Backus Fire
& Rescue/First Responders

 

Fire Department
Fire Department
Fire Truck
Fire Truck

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Backus Volunteer Fire Department & First Responders is to provide professional, reliable emergency services through dedicated volunteers who serve with integrity, courage, compassion, and a commitment to protecting our community. Meet Our Team – Trying to get a photo of them all for this.

We currently serve:

The City of Backus, Blind Lake Township, Bull Moose Township, Bungo Township, Deerfield Township, McKinley Township, Pine River Township, Ponto Lake Township, and Powers Township.

Fire & Rescue

104 King Street, 
Backus, 56435, MN
Phone: (218) 947-3221

JASON SMITH

Fire Chief

TYLER SMITH

Assistant Fire Chief

For information on Volunteering, Joining or Supporting the Backus Volunteer Fire Department
contact the City Clerk at (218) 947-3221 or email: [email protected]

🔗 Backus Fire Department | Backus MN | Facebook

🔥 Fire Safety Tips – Backus Fire Department

  • Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and inside each sleeping area.
  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly; replace batteries at least once a year.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how to use it.
  • Never leave cooking unattended — stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling food.
  • Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn and turn them off before leaving the room or going to bed.
  • Have an escape plan with two ways out of every room and practice it regularly with your family.
  • Always obtain burn permits when required and follow current burning restrictions.
  • Never leave a campfire unattended — drown, stir, and feel to ensure it’s completely out.
  • Keep your address numbers clearly visible from the road so emergency responders can find you quickly.
  • Maintain a defensible space by clearing brush, leaves, and debris from around your home and outbuildings.
  • Dispose of ashes safely — place them in a metal container with a lid, away from combustible materials.
  • Check cords and outlets for damage; replace frayed wires immediately.
  • Don’t overload outlets or power strips. Never plug a space heater into a power strip.
  • Have your furnace, chimney, and woodstove inspected and cleaned annually.
  • Keep candles away from anything that can burn — better yet, use battery-operated alternatives.
  • Turn off decorative lights before leaving home or going to bed.
  • Store flammable liquids in approved containers, away from heat sources.
  • Call 911 immediately.
  • Never go back inside a burning building.
  • Meet your family at a pre-designated safe location.