Graham Co. Emergency Services

08/13/2026

With deep sadness, Graham County Emergency Services announces the passing of Retired Chief James “Boomer” Pommerehn on August 12, 2026.

Boomer devoted more than 34 years to serving Graham County. He served as Emergency Services Director, Hill City Fire Chief, and Emergency Management Director, and continued answering calls until his retirement in March 2025.

For decades, if you saw a fire truck, there was a good chance you would see Boomer with it. His dedication to this community, his leadership, and his love for the people of Graham County never wavered.

We are deeply grateful for his years of service, friendship, and commitment to our community.

2 Timothy 4:7
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Retired Chief James “Boomer” Pommerehn, your watch is complete. We’ll take it from here.

Rest in peace, Chief. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Viewing:
Sunday, August 16, 2026
5:00–7:00 PM
First Assembly of God Church
206 N. Middle St.
Hill City, KS 67642

Funeral Service:
Monday, August 17, 2026
10:00 AM
Graham County Fairgrounds, Hill City

Burial will follow at Hill City Cemetery. A lunch will be served at the fairgrounds following the burial.

James “Boomer” Pommerehn
Chief. Leader. Servant. Friend.

07/30/2026

🐍 Rattlesnake Season is Here – Be Careful Out There! 🐍

As temperatures warm up across western Kansas, rattlesnakes are on the move. Whether you're checking cattle, riding horses, working around the farm, or taking your dog for a walk, now is a good time to be extra aware of your surroundings.

Here are a few simple ways to help protect your pets and livestock:
🐾 Keep dogs on a leash when exploring unfamiliar areas.
🌾 Avoid tall grass, brush piles, rock outcroppings, and old buildings where snakes like to hide.
👢 Watch where you step and where you place your hands while working outside.
🏡 Keep your yard and around barns clean to discourage rodents, which can attract snakes.

If your pet is bitten by a rattlesnake, you may notice:
• Sudden swelling, especially around the face or legs
• Pain or crying out
• Weakness or difficulty standing
• Bleeding from the bite
• Trouble breathing in more serious cases

⏰ Time matters. If you think your pet has been bitten by a rattlesnake, contact us as soon as possible. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances for a successful recovery.

Snakes play an important role in our ecosystem and usually want nothing to do with people or animals. The best thing you can do is give them plenty of space and let them move along safely.

Stay safe this summer, and if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to give us a call—we're here to help! ❤️🐾

07/29/2026

Do not miss this amazing opportunity‼️

If you have ever thought about becoming an EMT and supporting your community, now is the time.

If you would like to know more please call:
Mickie Helberg
785-421-3455

🚑 Have you ever thought about becoming an EMT?

Sheridan County EMS is excited to offer a Regional EMT Certification Course beginning in November 2026, and we’re looking for people right here in Sheridan County who want to make a difference.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, looking for a new challenge, wanting to volunteer, or simply interested in serving your community, becoming an EMT is one of the most rewarding ways to help others.

This course is designed to make training more accessible by combining:
✔ Live online classroom instruction
✔ Local hands-on skills training
✔ Monthly regional skills sessions in Hoxie

The Educational Incentive Grant (EIG) provides $1,150 toward training for eligible students.

* $850 supports the regional course.
* $300 helps your local EMS service with skills training.
* Students are responsible only for certification testing fees.

Your course includes:
📘 Textbook
💻 Online learning platform
👕 Course shirt
🩺 Blood pressure cuff
🩺 Stethoscope

📅 Important Dates
• Interest Deadline: August 15, 2026
• Enrollment Deadline: October 15, 2026
• Classes Begin: November 2026

Rural EMS depends on neighbors helping neighbors. If you’ve ever wanted to serve your community, now is a great time to get started.

If you’d like to learn more—or if you know someone who would make a great EMT—contact us today.

📞 Jordan Riley
785-675-3364

📧 [email protected]

Please share this post to help us reach future EMTs in Sheridan County and across Northwest Kansas. Together, we can build the next generation of EMS providers.

07/20/2026

**This Post Is No Longer Current**

Hot and dry conditions will continue through Tuesday as a strong ridge of high pressure aloft remains in control of the area. A weak cold front will sweep through the region on Tuesday, but will only lower temperatures 5 to 10 degrees.

07/08/2026

**This post is no longer current**

The potential for severe weather has increased for this evening. Winds up around 80 MPH are possible, which will likely cause blowing dust to occur. Hail up to 1.75 inches is also possible. Tomorrow's threats are similar to today's, but slightly weaker.

06/21/2026

*** this post is no longer current ***

Storms are expected to continue and develop over the next few hours and will move east. All severe modes are possible along with flooding.

06/20/2026

Stay Alert!

06/08/2026

06.08.2026
Graham County is in a tornado watch until 10 pm.

***This post is no longer current***

Strong to severe thunderstorms are anticipated across the region this afternoon and evening. Very large hail, strong and damaging winds, and a few tornadoes are possible. Ensure you have ways to receive weather information today!

05/15/2026

**This post is no longer current**

The severe threat has been increased to a level 3/5 for this weekend. Large to very large hail, damaging winds, dust and tornadoes are all possible. The peak time for storms is forecast to be during the afternoon and evening each day. Those with outdoor plans this weekend will want to remain weather aware and have a way to receive warnings if any are issued for your area.

03/14/2026

03.14.26

Firefighting units are on the scene at the sale barn, executing an overhaul operation stemming from a controlled burn incident that occurred several weeks ago.

Your cooperation is requested in avoiding the area to enable efficient movement of fire apparatus and personnel.