06/10/2026
HURON FIRE DEPARTMENT CONTINUES PROUD STATE FIRE SCHOOL TRADITION
Huron firefighters preparing to attend one of South Dakota's longest-standing fire service training events.
The South Dakota Firefighters Association, Incorporated, was established as a public state institution in the early 1900s under South Dakota Codified Law 9-17-6. Firefighters throughout South Dakota have been gathering for statewide training conventions, tournaments, and schools since 1884, making the organization one of the oldest and most respected fire service institutions in the state.
The first South Dakota Firefighters Association Convention was held in Aberdeen in 1884. Annual conventions continued for decades before evolving into what is now known as the South Dakota State Fire School. In 1930, the convention officially transitioned into a dedicated training event focused on providing firefighters with education on the latest techniques, equipment, leadership principles, and emergency response practices.
Today, South Dakota State Fire School remains one of the premier training opportunities for firefighters and emergency responders throughout the region. South Dakota is home to approximately 8,300 firefighters, with nearly 7,800 serving as volunteers. State Fire School continues to play a vital role in preparing these men and women to safely and effectively serve their communities.
The City of Huron and the Huron Fire Department have a long and proud history with State Fire School. Huron has had the privilege of hosting the event on five separate occasions and has been involved in statewide firefighter training activities dating back as early as 1888. Through the years, Huron firefighters have consistently recognized the value of professional development and the importance of sharing knowledge with fellow firefighters across South Dakota.
This year, several members of the Huron Fire Department will once again attend State Fire School, representing both the department and the community. They will participate in classes covering a variety of fire, rescue, emergency medical, and leadership topics designed to enhance the skills needed to protect the citizens they serve.
"Training is one of the most important investments we can make as firefighters," said Chief John Miller. "The emergency incidents we face today are more complex than ever before, and State Fire School provides an excellent opportunity for our members to learn from experienced instructors and bring that knowledge back to Huron. Our goal is to improve every day so that we can continue providing the highest level of service to our community."
The Huron Fire Department remains committed to lifelong learning and continuous improvement. Whether through local training, regional classes, or statewide educational opportunities such as State Fire School, the department understands that preparation and education are essential to firefighter safety and effective emergency response.
As firefighters from across South Dakota gather to learn, train, and exchange ideas, the Huron Fire Department is proud to continue its participation in a tradition that has strengthened the fire service for well over a century.
About the Huron Fire Department
The Huron Fire Department serves the City of Huron and works closely with neighboring agencies throughout Beadle County to provide fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials response, emergency medical support, and public safety services. Through a commitment to professionalism, training, and community service, the department strives to protect life and property while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.
