In the early 1950's, the City of Dakota's first fire protection was provided through a partnership with Dresbach Township. By 1971, Dakota residents decided the city needed a structured fire department with its own constitution and by-laws, regular meetings and training, adequate equipment and protective clothing for all its members. The City Council approved the organizational documents in Septem
ber 1971. In 1989, the First Responder Squad was activated with nine trained and licensed members. This was also the year ground breaking ceremonies were held for the new fire station and community center. In 1998, the City Council approved a new constitution and by-laws combining the fire department and first responders under the new name name, The Dakota Fire & Rescue Department. Over the years, the department has updated their equipment to include a responder van, pumper, tanker, rescue boat and a heavy rescue truck with extrication equipment. The department currently provides fire and rescue services for the City of Dakota and portions of Dresbach and Richmond Townships.
