It was a busy and productive evening for the Epworth Fire Department on Monday, April 20, 2026, as more than 20 members gathered for a hands-on anhydrous ammonia training. The session ran from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and was part of the department’s regular monthly fire drill schedule.

Trainings like this are especially important in rural areas, where anhydrous ammonia is commonly used in agriculture but can pose serious risks if something goes wrong. Firefighters spent the evening learning and practicing how to safely respond to potential incidents involving the chemical, building both confidence ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Epworth Fire Department is deeply saddened and offers condolences to the family of retired Captain Wilbur “Bill” Hartman who passed away Sunday, March 29, 2026 at the age of 91. Wilbur served on the Epworth Fire Department for 25 years from 1958 - 1983. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1965 and to Captain in 1970 - a position he held for thirteen years until his retirement from active duty in 1983. Wilbur was among the many members who worked diligently to build the old fire station in 1972-1973. He was a dedicated volunteer who responded to many calls in the 25 years he served. Wilbur ... (Full Story)

On Monday, February 9, 2026, members of the Epworth Fire Department participated in Mega Code EMS training, practicing three different scenarios staged by EFD Paramedics. The scenarios were designed to simulate daytime emergency responses in which department members arrive on scene at different times.

During the training, members practiced a wide range of EMS skills, including CPR, managing patient family interactions, and assigning duties during active emergency scenes. These realistic scenarios allowed crews to strengthen teamwork, communication, and decision-making under pressure.

The Epworth ... (Full Story & Photos)

On Friday, January 23, 2026 at 11:42 p.m. the Dubuque County 911 Center took a report of a large structure fire in the area of Then Road and Pleasant Grove Road south of Epworth. The 911 caller could see the flames and smoke from Placid Road. Dubuque County Sheriffs Deputies arrived on the scene advising the machine shed was fully involved with the roof already collapsed inside the structure. The 40x120 foot machine shed was located at the Ken and Darla Hosch farm, 7034 Then Road, rural Epworth. The Epworth Fire Department arrived on scene deploying the blitz-fire attack line as well three ... (Full Story & Photos)

The Epworth Community Volunteer Firemen held their annual appreciation party on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at the Epworth Fire Station. The appreciation dinner is hosted by the President of our non-profit corporation, Lt. Brian McAuliffe, and honors the dedication and commitment of the members to our community. Members and spouses of the fire department, honorary/retired firefighters and spouses, city council members and rural board members were in attendance for the event. This year Jacob Reiff was awarded the 2025 firefighter of the year for his unselfish dedication and contributions to the ... (Full Story & Photos)