Founded in 1942, Columbus Township Fire & Rescue, also known as East Columbus Independent Fire Department (ECIFD), is an ISO Class 4/4X combination fire department that provides fire protection, rescue services, and non-transport emergency medical service (EMS) for the unincorporated areas of Columbus Township, including the Bartholomew County 4-H Fairgrounds.  We also provide mutual aid to neighboring departments in Bartholomew County, including the City of Columbus.  On rare occasions we are called to provide mutual aid to neighboring counties.

Columbus Township is a combination department, meaning that the staff consists of both career and volunteer personnel.  Personnel are on duty 24/7 at Station 221 to ensure a rapid initial response to all emergencies. The staff also carries out daily and weekly truck and equipment inspections, maintenance, and other general station duties.

One of the department's largest events each year is the Bartholomew County 4-H Fair, where we provide emergency services throughout the duration of the fair.  We also typically cover a few demolition derbies, go-kart races, or other events at the fairgrounds throughout the year.

Our members train on a weekly basis in both firefighting and EMS skills and tactics to be prepared to react quickly and effectively to any type of emergency that we care called to.  Many of our members hold state certifications in firefighting, EMS, and technical rescue.  We strive to provide the best possible value and service to the community.

 If you have an interest in serving the community with pride and integrity, then we have a place for you here. Our members come from all different backgrounds, educations, careers, and families. We train together, serve together, laugh together, and sometimes cry together. If you’re interested, stop by Station 221 sometime to meet some of our members and get more information.