The East Columbus Independent Fire Department (ECIFD) provides emergency services to the area of Columbus Township that is outside of the city limits. ECIFD also have verbal and written mutual aid agreements with all of the fire departments within Bartholomew County, and respond to incidents outside Bartholomew County when requested.

The department has thirty-five (35) positions for active, auxiliary, and reserve firefighters. Six (6) positions are elected line officers. The officers (in proper rank) are Chief, Assistant Chief, First Captain, Second Captain, Lieutenant, and EMS Officer. In addition, the Board of Directors may appoint an acting Lieutenant.

There is a Board of Directors that makes executive decisions, creates operating guidelines, directs projects, and performs disciplinary actions. The board consists of the five line officers, a Treasurer, and a Secretary. The board meets once a month at 18:00 hours on the Sunday prior to the department's monthly meetings. All board members are full time members of the department who are elected by the membership to serve in leadership roles.

An election is held annually on the first Sunday in December, and positions are effective for a calendar year starting in January. The Chief's position is elected on even years, and the Assistant Chief's position is elected in odd years.

The department's members meet once a month on the first Tuesday at 19:30 hours to discuss current events, review activities, make decisions on projects, expenditures, and membership. Attendance is not mandatory, but is suggested to keep up on activities.

Training is conducted regularly on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Additional training sessions are scheduled on varying basis.