In 1874 the first fire fighting force was established to protect the
community of Newton, Iowa. Known as the Newton Hook and Ladder
Company and initially consisting of 20 members, the department was
described by then founding president S .J. Moyer as “ well equipped
with trucks, hooks, ladders and buckets” and “could be relied on to do
all that good health and vigorous muscle could accomplish.”

Many changes have been made in the fire service since the turn of the
century. Gone are the days that the fire department responds to only
fire calls. The Newton Fire Department is a full service fire department
which provides fire, emergency medical services, hazardous materials
and technical rescue response capabilities. In addition the Fire
Department is also responsible for city disaster response coordination .
Whatever the emergency, the Newton Fire Department is prepared and
ready to answer the call.