06/02/2026
Central Dekalb County Firefighters respond to 30 calls in May
During the month of May 2026, Central Dekalb County Fire Protection District responded to 30 calls for service.
Volunteer firefighters also participated in 2 training exercises and an evening of equipment maintenance
Emergency calls included grass & brush fires, power lines down, medical emergency first responder calls, vehicle fires, vehicle accidents, storm spotting and storm debris removal. Community service calls included wellness checks, assisting with Career Day - educating the elementary school kids about Fire Trucks & Fire Fighting, assisting with the Memorial Day service and traffic assist for funerals.
At the May Fire board meeting, Daniel Praiswater agreed to stay on as Fire Chief while the department renews the ISO certifications. Billy Sprague is the 1st assistant chief. Joshua Masoner was promoted from captain to 2nd assistant chief.
“Turn around, don’t drown.”
Flooding is the deadliest severe weather hazard in Missouri, with the vast majority of fatalities occurring during flash flooding and affecting people in vehicles. In 2024, flooding killed nine people in Missouri and 145 nationwide.
Just six inches of water can cause loss of control and kill the engine in most cars. 1 foot will cause a car to float resulting in the loss of steering and two feet of rushing water can sweep most vehicles away. Flooded roadways often have hidden dangers under the surface where a culvert or the road bed might be washed away. Driving into floodwaters with unknown dangers is not worth the risk.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Think about everything you could lose before trying to save a few minutes by not turning around.
The MoDOT Traveler Information free app shows current work zones, incidents, and weather-related road conditions on state-maintained routes in Missouri. The MoDot Map will show closed roads from flooding. This can help you plan your routes over flooded rivers, but keep in mind flash floods rise quickly and the app may not be updated as to the current danger when you arrive at a flooded roadway.
Flooding creates additional hazards to be aware of: Downed power lines, flooded basements with a risk of electrocution, raw sewage and mold. Floodwaters and related mud may be contaminated. Clean and sanitize anything that had contact with the flood.
For all emergencies, please call 911. To report a controlled burn of brush or a field, call the dispatcher non-emergency number at 816-449-5802.
Our fire district is operated solely by volunteers from Maysville, Weatherby and Fairport. We appreciate your support.
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