Rescue History

In 1968, CB radios were gaining popularity, and a local Baptist preacher, along with another community member, decided to form a CB radio club. The club quickly grew to around 30 members. Though participation dwindled over time, the group remained active, often being called upon to assist in searching for lost hunters due to their ability to communicate via radio.

Recognizing the growing need for coordinated emergency support, the CB radio club evolved into the Nevada County Rescue Unit (NCRU) around 1970. With community support, the group secured its first four-wheel-drive rescue truck. CB radios also made the group valuable for storm spotting, with members stationed across the county.

As the group’s mission expanded, members decided a fire truck would be a valuable addition. At the time, there was no proper facility to house it, but Emmett offered space to store and operate the first county fire truck. Shortly afterward, a second truck was built when the Rescue Unit acquired part of the old National Guard Armory.

Charles Ray Cross was appointed Civil Defense Coordinator and helped secure several surplus military vehicles for communities throughout Nevada County. That fall, over 20 fire trucks proudly participated in the Nevada County Fair parade.

When the armory changed hands, the Rescue Unit temporarily relocated to the building now occupied by M&M Wrecker Service. Thanks to determined fundraising efforts and community support, a permanent fire station was constructed—where the department remains today. The Nevada County Rescue Unit holds a 99-year lease on the property.

As the department grew, a new bay was added to the station. A name change soon followed, prompted by the need to meet funding criteria. To receive certain types of support and funding, the organization was required to be officially recognized as a fire department. Thus, the Nevada County Rescue Unit became what we now know as the Nevada County Fire & Rescue Unit.