The Columbus Fire Department proudly protects the city of Columbus, (population 4,991) and a large rural area covering parts of Columbia, Dodge and Dane counties. The Columbus Fire Department was organized October 26th, 1877. The officers were a chief engineer, assistant chief engineer and fire warden. The mayor and councilmen were Fire Wardens Ex-Officio. The department was divided into 3 companies: Hose Company, Ladder Company and Engine Company Each company elected its own officers: foreman, assistant foreman and secretary-treasurer The department consists of 40 members when at full strength. Training drills are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month. Regular monthly meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Driver operator training is held on the 1st Tuesday of each month for veterans and those who would like to become driver operators. In months including 5 Tuesdays the last Tuesday is reserved for vehicle extrication practice.