About Us

Southwest Volunteer Fire Department (SWFD) is the primary provider of fire, rescue, and emergency medical services in the southwest region of Lee County, Alabama. SWFD serves over 5,000 residents and responds to an average of 600 calls per year. Our department consists of 29 volunteers, and many of our firefighters are currently attending Auburn University as full-time students pursuing various degrees. Volunteers report to the station and respond to emergency calls within our jurisdiction. SWFD also provides mutual aid to neighboring fire departments in Lee and Macon counties to assist in emergency operations requiring additional resources. 

Southwest Fire Coverage Area

History 

Southwest Lee County Volunteer Fire Department was founded by Gene Conway in 1978. Mr. Conway, along with his friends and neighbors decided to form the fire department to serve the community surrounding Loachapoka, Alabama. In addition to helping with day-to-day operations, Gene Conway donated several pieces of equipment including an alert siren, a tanker truck, and a pumper truck. Through the efforts of many individuals, the pumper truck was fully equipped to meet ISO standards. SWFD Station 1 was nicknamed "The Conway Station" in recognition of Gene's efforts in establishing the department. The Conway Station was opened on May 11, 1985 and still stands at 2176 Wire Road, where volunteers meet to train and respond to emergencies.