Celebrating First Responders
October 28, 2026
This special collection takes you inside five essential departments. Choose a story below to learn about the people, training and tools behind emergency response in our community.
Emergency Communications
Dispatch
Go inside the room where calm voices coordinate help, track critical details and connect every call with the right response.
Meet the dispatch team →
Fire & Rescue
Colby Fire Department
See how local firefighters pair emergency readiness with prevention education for students and families across Thomas County.
Visit the fire story →
Emergency Medical Services
Thomas County EMS
Learn how new cardiac monitors and a dedicated team strengthen patient care across the county.
Explore the EMS story →
County Law Enforcement
Thomas County Sheriff’s Office
Meet Deputy Lucas Taylor and K9 Jax, a certified team whose training supports agencies across northwest Kansas.
Meet Jax and Lucas →
City Law Enforcement
Colby Police Department
Follow Daymen Avery’s path from Thomas County jailer to police cadet as he prepares for the next chapter in public service.
Read the police story →