Salute to Emergency Personnel 2011 by Vilas County News-Review

TO EMERGENCY PERSONNEL 2011

A SPECIAL SPECIAL PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE A VILAS COUNTY COUNTY NEWS-REVIEW NEWS-REVIEW VILAS AND THE THE THREE THREE LAKES LAKES NEWS NEWS AND

Page 2

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

INDEX

TEAMWORK Emergency preparation and financial planning both take teamwork.

ARBOR VITAE Fire Department & EMTs

Pages 61, 62 & 71 BOULDER JUNCTION

Most emergency situations take the coordinated efforts of several departments and many individuals.

Fire Department & EMTs

We salute these dedicated volunteers.

EAGLE RIVER Fire Department EMTs City of Eagle River Police Department

Pages 67 & 68 CONOVER

Fire Department & EMTs

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Pages 44-49 Pages 3-7 Page 20-21 Page 8

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Fire Department & EMTs

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Fire Department & EMTs

Pages 63, 64 & 71 LAND O’ LAKES

Fire Department & EMTs

Pages 40-43 MANITOWISH WATERS

Fire Department & EMTs

Pages 69 & 70 PHELPS Pages 34-37 PLUM LAKE

Fire Department & EMTs

Pages 50-52 PRESQUE ISLE

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Fire Prevention Home Checklist 7. Is furnace room neat and free of combustible materials? 8. Is building free of wastepaper, garbage, etc. outside and in? 9. Is fire department phone number posted near the phone? 10. How many fire extinguishers? Are they serviceable? 11. Are basement and attic free of combustible material and liquids? Are stairways and hallways clear for good exit purposes? Are there two ways of escape from every room?

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Pages 57 & 58 ST. GERMAIN

Fire Department & EMTs

Pages 28-33 SUGAR CAMP

Fire Department

Pages 24-27 THREE LAKES

Fire Department, Police, EMTs (Oneida County Medic 10)

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Pages 10-15

VILAS COUNTY Vilas County Sheriff’s Department WINCHESTER Fire Department & EMTs WOODRUFF Fire Department & EMTs

Dispatchers

Install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers in your home and work area. 1. Is electricity delivered to a centrally located switch box? 2. Are all fuses of the proper size and does the wiring look good? 3. Are extension cords hooked properly? Are they in good condition? 4. Are motor fuels stored in proper places and in proper containers? 5. Are cleaning fuels and other cleaning liquids properly stored? Are cleaning rags stored properly? 6. Have stoves and heating equipment been kept in good repair?

Fire Department & EMTs

Some call them dispatchers Others are called operator or clerk Or telecommunicator or aide Some are police officers; most are not Some are firefighters; most are not The name is not important But they are. Dispatchers serve many masters Yet they are masters themselves Some serve the police, or fire Others service the EMS, or sheriffs Some serve the highway patrol Many serve all of these Yet that’s not important But they are. Dispatchers perform many functions They command the radio channels That no one else understands They make sense of the unsensible Hear the unhearable Remember everything, forget nothing Yet that’s not important But they are. Emergency phone calls are never-ending Problems to make a priest blush Crises that defy resolution Complexities to confound a lawyer With the clock running Someone is watching Are they performing up to speed? Yet that’s not important But they are. Some deal with problems at the counter Is the computer up? The officer needs the information Now!

Page 55 Pages 65 & 66 Pages 59 & 60

By Alan Burton

Doesn’t anyone realize that lives Are at stake here? Isn’t this important? Expectations are high Pay too often is low Hours are usually long Shiftwork and overtime Christmas and Easter Complaints are of no avail There is no one to listen Yet that’s not important. Dispatchers are expected to know What a police officer knows Without the same training For who does the officer look to For questions about the law Resources that are needed For help . . . Of course that’s not important either. Dispatchers are the hub, we know They are the center of the universe We know Even if no one else does And that IS important. Dispatching is an outrageous career But most won’t make it a career Few people can take it Few people would want to Few people have the stamina Few people can afford it And that IS important. Police officers need dispatchers Firefighters need dispatchers The community needs dispatchers And that IS important. And so are They.

--Written in commemoration of the first National Dispatchers Week — 1987

EAGLE RIVER Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Page 3

Eagle River refurbishes tanker truck, upgrades radios to comply with FCC ___________

BY ANTHONY DREW NEWS-REVIEW ASST. EDITOR

___________

The Eagle River Area Fire Department refurbished one of its tanker trucks in 2011, adding a brand-new stainless-steel tank, in addition to a portable tank and new tires. The estimated cost for the tank alone was $87,000, but as the refurbishing process went forward, it became clear the truck needed additional equipment. The total estimated cost of the project is between $90,000 and $95,000. “It’s going to extend the life of the truck,” said Fire Chief Patrick Weber. “If we had to replace the complete truck, we’d probably be talking about a quarter of a million dollars. It’s going to buy us at least another 15 years out of the unit, then maybe we’ll have to look at a chassis.” The refurbishing project was funded through a capital outlay the department had set up for vehicle replacements. “It’s not going to put an impact on the taxes when we do our budget this fall,” said Weber. “It’s money that’s been in a reserve account.” The department also received grant money to help update its radios to comply with new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations, which require public safety departments to switch over to narrowband frequencies. The change will provide more airspace for emergency radio traffic, according to Assistant Chief Tripp Anderson. “A number of our radios were compatible for reprogramming, but some of them weren’t,” he said. “The new radios were approved by some grants, one through the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and one federal grant, the Homeland Security grant.” In addition to new portable radios, the department purchased mobile radios for inside of its trucks. The total cost for the new radios was around $30,000. “Within the last month, we also replaced the last eight pagers that needed to be upgraded to the Motorola Minitor V, which are narrow-band compatible,” said Anderson. The department put a used Pierce Arrow ladder truck into service early in 2010. The 1984 truck, bought from the McHenry Township Fire Protection District in McHenry, Ill., for

New recruit for the Eagle River Area Fire Department James Kaminski practices using foam during a recent drill. Foam

$55,000, has already been used on several fires, according to Weber. The truck features a three-section 100-foot tower ladder with a platform, a seven-person cab and a 200gallon water tank. “There is a water nozzle in the bucket that is controlled from the platform or from the bottom of the truck,” said Weber. “There are three water lines in the bucket, where there is room for two firefighters.” The truck was funded by the Joint Municipal Fire Commission. The vehicle replaced a 1971 ladder truck. Weber said the ladder truck has been used to attack large fires from the air. In the past, Three Lakes and St. Germain ladder trucks have been used to battle fires in downtown Eagle River. Other equipment on the truck, which was purchased new by the McHenry Township in 1984 for $450,000, includes a 1,250-gallonsper-minute (gpm) two-stage pump, a 12-kilowatt diesel-powered genera-

helps the department fight vehicle and forest fires more effectively using less water. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

tor, scene lights, 110-volt power out- rillator at $2,000 and six search-andlets and additional ground ladders. rescue helmets at $540. “The hydraulic tools (cutter and Additional rescue duties spreader) each have 100 feet of Eagle River purchased more than spooled air hose connected to a motor $68,000 in rescue equipment the past in the rear of the truck,” said Deputy four years. Most of the equipment is Chief Jim Bonson. “We can pull the used on the department’s rescue rescue truck up to an accident scene truck, which responds to accidents, and be ready to go.” fires and other emergencies. The department also purchased 24 “We took over the rescue duties Scott voice amplifiers for $6,216 for Eagle River Memorial Hospital through a grant in 2008. Ambulance Service in August of “The voice amplifiers are for the 2006, so we continue to add equipfirefighters’ face pieces which proment and training to go along with mote where a self-contained breaththose responsibilities,” said Weber. ing apparatus is required,” said BonWhile the hospital still supplies son. “They promote stronger personthe ambulances and paramedics for to-person communications by projectrescue calls, the Eagle River departing the user’s voice clearer and farment responds with a rescue truck ther than it would with no applicaand trained personnel. tion at all.” The newest rescue equipment inAll the equipment was purchased cludes front bumper-mounted hythrough a Federal Emergency Mandraulic tools costing $25,000, two car agement Agency grant, with the stabilization kits at $8,100, a 10-ton To EAGLE RIVER, Pg. 5 air cushion lift kit at $6,642, a defib-

EAGLE RIVER Page 4

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Patrick Weber Patrick has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 39 years. He currently holds the rank of chief. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Eagle River Light & Water. As a state-certified firefighter, he has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, ice water rescue, NIMS, self-contained breathing apparatus, pumps and pumping – ladders, company officer training, defib, LP gas fires, hazardous materials tech level, arson detection, educational methodology and fire instructor training. He is also certified in CPR.

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He is a resident of Eagle River and is retired. As a firefighter, Jack has had training in all aspects of fire fighting and command. He is a state-certified Firefighter I.

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Robert “Mac” has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 39 years. He currently holds the rank of assistant chief. He is a resident of Eagle River and is retired. As a state-certified firefighter, Mac has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, vehicle extrication, hazardous materials, LP gas fires, self-contained breathing apparatus, vehicle fires, pumps and pump maintenance, vehicle maintenance training, is a member of the North Woods Fire Prevention Committee and is the media liaison officer.

Tripp has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 37 years. He currently holds the rank of assistant chief. He is a resident of Eagle River and manages Anderson Insurance Agency Inc. As a state-certified firefighter, Tripp has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, breathing apparatus, ladder practice, pumps and pumping, vehicle fires, Learning thru Burning, LP gas fires, hazardous materials, defib., First Responder, ice water rescue, NIMS and vehicle extrication.

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Jack Thomas Jack has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 54 years. He currently holds the rank of assistant chief.

Jim has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 27 years. He currently holds the rank of deputy chief. He is a resident of Eagle River. Jim is certified in CPR and is a state-certified firefighter, having completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, ice water rescue, NIMS, vehicle extrication, hazardous materials, LP gas fires, self-contained breathing apparatus, defib, vehicle fires, pumps and pumping, and Learning thru Burning. Jim is chairman and treasurer of the Joint Municipal Fire Commission.

Karl J. Nikolai Karl has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 22 years. He currently holds the rank of assistant chief. He is a resident of Eagle River and is retired. As a state-certified firefighter, Karl has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, vehicle extrication, ice-water rescue, NIMS, defib, and search and rescue. He is also the department’s public fire education director and fire inspector.

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Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 35 years, currently holding the rank of captain. He has been a volunteer EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 32 years. He is a resident of Eagle River and is the Vilas County chief deputy coroner. He is employed by Spirit MTS. As a state-certified firefighter, Mike has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, breathing apparatus, pumper tech., ladder practices, LP gas fires, hazardous materials, rural fire techniques, fire/arson detection and vehicle extrication. He is a nationally registered EMT-P.

Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 24 years. He currently holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Vilas County Highway Department. As a state-certified firefighter, Mike has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, ice water rescue, vehicle extrication, NIMS, wildland fire suppression, ladder practice, breathing apparatus and is also certified in CPR. He is an assistant public fire education director.

Home Center Eagle River

James Kauzlaric Jim has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 22 years. He currently holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Eagle River and is self-employed. Jim is a state-certified firefighter, and has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, ice water rescue, NIMS, vehicle extrication, self-contained breathing apparatus, defib, and is also certified in CPR.

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EAGLE RIVER Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Eagle River FROM PAGE 3

grant covering $65,466 and the fire department paying for 5%, or $3,440. Because many of the Eagle River firefighters are now trained as First Responders and are certified in vehicle extrication, having the proper equipment was essential, according to Bonson. Some firefighters were certified in cold-water rescue in 2007, when the department purchased a selfinflating ice rescue boat, Mustang flotation suits, ropes and life jackets. The department also has a fully equipped and trained Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) to locate and rescue an injured or trapped firefighter. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, an average of 100 firefighters die in the line of duty each year and thousands succumb to other types of injuries. Bonson said the department received a federal grant of $48,279 in 2006 to purchase equipment that may be used during a RIT rescue, including a helmet-mounted thermal-imaging camera costing $10,500. “Should RIT be called upon to perform an entry and rescue in the Eagle River area or surrounding communities, a thermal-imaging camera is an invaluable tool to help locate and rescue injured or trapped firefighters,” said Bonson. Other equipment includes a saw, hydraulic forcible-entry tool, mobile air cart, hydraulic spreader/cutter and an automatic external defibrillator.

Assistant Fire Chief Tripp Anderson displays the new digital radios. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Page 5

an enclosed pump compartment for the operator. Much of the fire-fighting and rescue equipment, along with many other items, is carried in the department’s equipment/personnel carrier, according to Weber. The carrier seats six in the cab, has room for additional people on a bench seat and features exterior-accessible storage bins for a variety of equipment, with specially designed roll-up doors and rollout trays. The vehicle carries electrical cord reels and air hose reels, portable generators, a foam unit, lighting equipment, positive ventilation fans, miscellaneous hand tools and ladders. “The truck also has a built-in 25,000-watt generator and four telescopic lights (two of them removable) to light up an accident or fire scene,” said Weber. “It also has a Cascade system for filling air bottles.” In 2005, the department installed a Unicus Bauer compressor in the fire station, which is used to fill air tanks or self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Weber said the department has installed integrated pass devices on the SCBAs. The device is an alarm system in the event a firefighter gets hurt or becomes unconscious while fighting a fire inside a building.

Other equipment The ladder truck is one of several new vehicles at the Eagle River fire station in the past decade. The department purchased a 2008 Chevrolet crew-cab pickup truck with seating for five people. It replaced a 1995 Chevrolet Suburban. “The pickup truck is used to transport personnel for training sessions and conferences,” said Bonson. “It also is used by our Fire Prevention Bureau. In addition, it pulls our fire safety house and our ATV rescue trailer.” The truck cost about $28,000 and was funded through the Joint Municipal Fire Commission. In 2005, Eagle River took delivery of a brush

truck that is used to battle wildland fires, according to Weber. The four-wheel drive truck has a 2005 Ford F550 chassis and features a 750-gpm mid-ship pump, a 320-gallon water tank, a compressed-air foam system, a removable winch that can be attached to the front or rear of the rig, and several roll-up doors on each side, opening to storage compartments. The department also is fully trained in the use of its 2003 pumper, an engine that provides firefighters with state-of-the-art equipment. The Pierce Saber features a 1,000-gallon tank and a 1,500-gpm pump, according to Weber. The $350,000 truck has its own 8,000-watt generator, a compressed-air foam system and a hydraulic ladder rack which allows for more storage area in the engine. Another unique feature of the truck is a revolving light tower on the roof with 6,000 watts of lights, which helps the department light incident areas at night. The truck can carry six personnel and features

Fire commission A lot of credit for the new equipment and training must go to the Joint Municipal Fire Commission, noted Weber. “Without their backing, we would still be using outdated equipment,” he said. “I must also congratulate the officers and men of the fire department for their devotion to duty and willingness to demonstrate a very professional image.” The Eagle River fire station is located at 820 E. Pine St. The commission includes George Meadows of the city of Eagle River; Scott Maciosek of the town of Cloverland; Dave Alleman of the town of Washington; Bruce Richter of the town of Lincoln; and Bonson, commission chairman and fire department representative. People who have questions about the fire department or need information about fire safety may call (715) 479-8835.

Steve Burr

Ed Mittel

Brian Crist

Ed has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 34 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant, fire inspector and chief engineer. He is a resident of Eagle River and a semiretired fire inspector. As a state-certified firefighter, Ed has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, NIMS, vehicle extrication, officers’ training, and has completed Nicolet College courses.

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Brian has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 33 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is also the incident scene photographer. He is a resident of Eagle River. Brian is a state-certified Firefighter I and II, and has completed courses in hazardous materials, roof ventilation, breathing apparatus, ladder practice, pumping and pump maintenance, vehicle fires, LP gas fires, Learning thru Burning, inspection school, and is a public instruction building inspector team member. Brian received a public relations award for the department.

Steve has been a volunteer for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 8 years. He currently holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Crystal Clear Windows Inc. As a state-certified firefighter, Steve has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, vehicle extrication, haz-mat operator’s level, and is certified in first aid, defib, First Responder, ice water rescue, NIMS and CPR.

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EAGLE RIVER Page 6

Oct. 12, 2011

Peter Anderson IV Peter has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 20 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Anderson Insurance Agency Inc. As a state-certified firefighter, Peter has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, NIMS and is also certified in CPR.

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Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Jason Burns Jason has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 9 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Mike’s Septic Service. Jason is a certified Firefighter I, has had flashover training, and has completed courses in CPR, NIMS, first aid, vehicle extrication, ice water rescue and is a member of Eastside RIT.

Faron Crabtree Faron has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 9 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of Eagle River. Faron is a state-certified Firefighter II First Responder. He has completed courses in CPR, ice water rescue, NIMS and vehicle extrication. He is a member of Eastside RIT. He was a volunteer with the Three Lakes Fire Department for 5 years.

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Home Center Eagle River

Art Granat Art has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 4 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of Eagle River. As a firefighter, Art has completed courses in Fire Office 3, haz-mat First Responder, fire investigator and is a certified diver. He was an Illinois-certified Firefighter 3 and retired after 38 years.

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Eagle River

William S. Jones William has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 20 years. He currently holds the rank of fire inspector. He is a resident of St. Germain, and is a retired firefighter and was assistant chief, city of Racine. William is a certified fire investigator instructor, works on prefire planning, is a certified fire inspector. He is retired from the St. Germain Fire Department. He was a fire prevention officer for the city of Racine for 22 years.

Mark Holperin Mark has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 28 years. He is a resident of Eagle River and is the owner of TV Tronics. As a state-certified firefighter, Mark has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, ice water rescue, NIMS, LP gas fires, self-contained breathing apparatus, vehicle fires, pumps and pumping, Learning thru Burning, defib, ladder training and is also certified in CPR.

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Eagle River

Eagle River, Rhinelander, Minocqua & Wausau

Thomas M. Pollack

Mike Stevens

Martin Sauer

Tom has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 27 years. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Pitlik & Wick Inc. As a state-certified firefighter, Tom has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, LP gas, pumps and pumping, breathing apparatus, ladders, hazardous materials, fire investigation and auto fires. He is also certified in CPR.

Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 20 years.

Martin has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 9 years.

He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Rhinelander Honda.

He is a resident of Eagle River and is self-employed.

As a state-certified firefighter, Mike has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, defib, First Responder, NIMS, and is also certified in CPR.

Martin is a certified Firefighter I and has completed courses in vehicle extrication, ice water rescue, NIMS, first aid, CPR and defib.

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Pat Crum Pat has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 6 years. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Frasier’s Plumbing & Heating. As a firefighter, Pat has completed the course and become certified in vehicle extrication.

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Mike Finney Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 3 years. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Open Fire Academy, International. As a firefighter with 26 years’ experience, Mike has completed courses in Firefighter II, Fire Officer III, Fire Instructor III and Fire Inspector II. He served with such organizations as S.C. Fire Academy, International Fire Service Training Association, Great Oaks, and the Open Fire Academy. He has a bachelor’s in economics, a master of divinity in counseling, and is completing a doctor of education.

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Eagle River, Rhinelander, Minocqua & Wausau

Jason Hyrczyk Jason has been a volunteer for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 1 year. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Spirit/MTS as a full-time paramedic, a PRN with Med 4, 5 and Eagle River 9-1 as a paramedic. As a firefighter, Jason has completed courses in Firefighter II, haz-mat ops, confined space rescue, Get Out Alive (RIT), driver/operator, NR EMT-P, ACLS, CPR, NRP, PALS, PHTLS and ITCO. He has been a firefighter for 12 years, previously with the town of Salem Fire/Rescue. He also worked in Milwaukee at a private service as a paramedic, doing 911 contract work, critical interfacility transports and children’s transport team.

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James Kaminski

Kara has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 1 year.

Jacob has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 1 year.

James is a new recruit for the Eagle River Area Fire Department, in his first year.

She is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by the state of Wisconsin, Department of Children and Families.

He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Lakes Precision.

He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Dish Network.

As a firefighter, Kara has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, and is a First Responder.

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As a firefighter, Jacob has completed courses in Firefighter I.

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EAGLE RIVER Page 8

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Mark Vander Bloomen

Anthony “Tony” Justice Tony has been a patrolman for the Eagle River Police Department for 22 years. He currently holds the rank of patrolman/investigator. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by the city of Eagle River. Tony is also a member of the Eagle River Volunteer Fire Department, serving as a lieutenant, and has been a statecertified Firefighter I and II for 19 years. He has completed courses and received certification for First Responder, National Incident Management System (NIMS) and RIT training.

Mark was appointed as chief of police for the Eagle River Police Department in December 2007. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by the city of Eagle River. Mark began his career in law enforcement in 1986, in the U.S. Army as a military police officer. In 1993, he was hired by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office where he worked as a deputy, K9 handler, Special Response Team member, and then promoted to lieutenant where he oversaw the 911 Communications Center and Patrol Division. In 2006, he left Lincoln County and became the chief of police at Fort Irwin, Calif., spending 18 months there before arriving in Eagle River. Mark holds a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice.

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Mike Olkowski Mike has been a police officer for the Eagle River Police Department for 21 years. He currently holds the rank of patrolman. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by the city of Eagle River. As a police officer, Mike has completed courses in police science at Fox Valley Technical College and was a paratrooper in the U.S. Army for 4 years.

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Chris Dobbs

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Chris has been an officer for the Eagle River Police Department for 20 years. She currently holds the rank of patrolwoman.

Todd has been a police officer for the Eagle River Police Department for 18 years. He currently holds the rank of patrolman. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by the city of Eagle River. As a police officer, Todd continues his police training. He received his police training at Fox Valley Technical College and has additional training in drug interdiction, officer survival and attended Benelli Armor School. He retired from the fire department after serving as a certified firefighter.

She is a resident of Conover and is employed by the city of Eagle River. Chris attended Nicolet College and received her associate’s degree in police science. She attended recruit school and continues her police training.

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A message from the publisher Dear Readers, The purpose of this special publication of the Vilas County News-Review and The Three Lakes News is to recognize the hundreds of our friends and neighbors who have answered the call to lifesaving public service. The sacrifices and the courage of area firefighters, emergency medical services personnel and law enforcement officers should not be taken for granted. These farsighted individuals have trained long and hard to be ready when the phone rings and their expertise is needed to fight a fire, extract victims from mangled vehicles or to perform lifesaving procedures on accident victims. Their dedication and commitment to community is exemplary. Oct. 9-15 is Fire Prevention Week. The week always includes Oct. 9 in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which began Oct. 8, but wreaked most of its havoc the following day. This is our 26th annual update of this publication, which keeps our readers informed on the progress and struggles that emergency personnel face as they work tirelessly to prepare for whatever disasters North Woods residents may encounter. It is a big job collecting the information and photos in this special edition. Every department has an updated story to tell about their equipment, training and fundraising — vital tools for creating departments that are ready to respond on a moment’s notice. We make every effort to include everyone, however, we’re sure someone has been unintentionally omitted. We’re told about 5,500 people die in fires in this country every year — including about 100 firefighters — and another 30,000 civilians are injured. In addition, law enforcement officers and rescue personnel are injured and killed on duty. Fire is a tragedy no one wants to experience; it is a destroyer of lives and property. The emergency personnel being saluted in this special section respond to hundreds of calls for help every

26 Edition

year. We might not appreciate the work these people do for us until an accident or fire happens to us or a neighbor. The tabloid includes tips on fire and accident prevention, because many of these tragic events can be prevented through improved public awareness and more attention to safety. We can’t avoid all accidents, but it is reassuring to know trained and qualified emergency and rescue personnel are ready to assist us. The sponsors listed at the bottom of the individual blocks were selected at random, in most cases. It wasn’t always possible to keep the sponsors in their immediate area of service. For the well-being of your family and your property, observe good fire safety practices this week and every week. Make sure every member of the family has an escape route. Make sure your smoke alarms are in working order at all times, and think seriously about installing carbon monoxide alarms. Most property owners who endure a house fire are underinsured, so make sure your insurance coverage is adequate for all possible disasters. We wish to thank everyone who helped compile the information in this publication and who cooperated with us in preparing this year’s salute. And we especially want to thank the sponsors and advertisers for making it all possible.

Kurt Krueger

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Page 9

Emergency management helps make Vilas County safe for residents, visitors ___________

BY JIM GALLOWAY VILAS COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

___________

Emergency management in Vilas County is performed under the oversight of one state and three county agencies. They are Wisconsin Emergency Management, part of the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, the Vilas County Board of Supervisors, the Vilas County Law Enforcement and Emergency Management Committee, and the Vilas County Local Emergency Planning Committee. Each of these agencies provides input and guidance for the development of the emergency management program. Emergency management directors are often asked a simple question: “What is emergency management?” The answer is: emergency management is a process consisting of many activities and most of these activities can be grouped into the following areas — outreach, planning, training and exercising, disaster preparedness and response, and hazardous materials. Outreach activities Vilas County Emergency Management makes a good faith effort to assist in both response planning and personnel training at the municipal and institutional level. One of the objectives of an emergency management program is to facilitate the coordination of both the planning and response of all emergency response agencies in the region. This helps to ensure a uniform emergency response across municipal, county and state borders. Vilas County public schools were the focus of one of these outreach activities. Vilas County Emergency Management was able to secure funding for an all hazards risk and vulnerability analysis to be conducted in each of the public schools. This analysis will provide each school’s risk assessment team with a tool to assist in improving their school’s emergency response plan. Another outreach activity was the printing and distribution of the Vilas County Residential Guide to Emergency Preparedness. This guide is available at the Vilas County Courthouse, Eagle River City Hall and at the town offices in each of the towns in the county. It is recommended that all Vilas County residents have a copy in their homes.

Vilas County Emergency Management holds training sessions for local emergency units, including full-scale exercis-

Response planning Response planning consists of a number of steps. First, a risk analysis and vulnerability assessment is completed. This consists of answering two questions. Can it happen in our community? If it does happen, how will it affect our population and infrastructure? The next step in the planning process is resource identification. This is basically identifying the response personnel and equipment assets available on a community, county and regional basis. Also included in this list are supporting agencies that will be able to help in the recovery process after the response is completed. After these steps are completed, a realistic response plan can be completed. Vilas County Emergency Management is responsible for the development and revision of county emergency response plans. This does not

es that get firefighters and EMS personnel in the field for disaster training. --Contributed Photo

mean that all of these plans are created by a single department. Each county response agency participates in this process. The result of this process is a county emergency response plan that includes a basic plan and 12 annexes. These annexes consist of plans addressing the following areas: direction and control, warning and communications, resource coordination, law enforcement, evacuation and sheltering, human services, public works and engineering, health and medical, radiological incidents, public information, fire and rescue, and disaster assessment. Vilas County Emergency Management also participates in planning initiatives at the state, regional, municipal, tribal and institutional levels. Training and exercising Training and exercising are activi-

ties that are related in a cyclic manner. Once a plan is completed, it should be exercised periodically. Exercising allows response agencies to identify those portions of the plan that may need improvement, or may need modification due to community or resource changes. Exercising is done at three levels: tabletop, functional and full scale. Each of these levels serves a specific function in the evaluation of a plan. Upon completion of the exercise process it is possible to identify areas of a plan that may be improved, specific training shortcomings that can be addressed, and equipment additions to be considered. In the most recent effort, Vilas County Emergency Management, with the cooperation of more than 15 response agencies and the Arbor Vitae/Woodruff School District, conTo EMERGENCY, Pg. 17

THREE LAKES Page 10

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Herb Stuckart Herb has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 19 years. He is also a member of the Medic 10 ambulance service. He currently holds the rank of fire chief. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Lakes Precision. Herb is a state-certified Firefighter I and is also an EMTDA-E. He has had 18 years’ experience with Tess Corners Fire Department and 13 years’ experience with the rescue squad.

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Dave Kirby Dave has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 27 years. He currently holds the rank of assistant chief. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by the Three Lakes School District. As a state-certified Firefighter II, Dave has completed courses in SCBA, hose bed laying, Firefighter I refresher, hazardous materials awareness, pumps and pumpers, vehicle fires, vehicle rescue, strategy and tactics for the firefighter, and Jaws of Life. Dave is a First Responder and haz-mat tech.

Ron Orzech Ron has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 21 years. He currently holds the rank of 1st assistant chief. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is self-employed. As a state-certified Firefighter II, Ron has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, SCBA, incident command training, pumper operator, wildland fires, smoke divers, hazardous materials, Jaws of Life, ice rescue and fire inspections. Ron is a haz-mat tech and First Responder.

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SPONSORED BY Eagle River, St. Germain, Phelps & Three Lakes

Eagle River, St. Germain, Phelps & Three Lakes

Scot Gaffron

Scott E. Lea

Scot has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 21 years. He currently holds the rank of captain. Scot has been an EMT-Intermediate with the Medic 10 ambulance service for 14 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by RSC Equipment Rental. As a state-certified firefighter, Scot has completed training in Firefighter I and II, instructional techniques and EMT-Intermediate, Learning thru Burning, Identifying & Recognizing Hazardous Materials, Basic Life Support, vehicle extrication, Incident Command System, Fire Service Supervision, ladder truck operations, wildland fire operations, high and low angle rope rescue. He conducts basic fire inspections, is a certified apparatus driver, master smoke diver and is a hazardous materials technician. Scot is the public education coordinator for the fire department.

Scott has been a firefighter/EMT-I for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 14 years. He currently holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is a police officer with the Three Lakes Police Department. Scott is a state-certified EMT and a state-certified Firefighter II. He has completed courses in haz-mat awareness, extrication, incident command, technical emergency response training, rapid intervention tactics, ice rescue, EVOC, driver/operator training, defibrillation, EPI, combitube and advanced truck/engine officer tactics. Scott is a haz-mat technician and was named Firefighter of the Year 2002.

Lee Tauer Lee has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 12 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Borel Auto Body. As a state-certified firefighter, Lee has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, entry-level 1 and 2, haz-mat technician, extrication 1, 2, 3 and 4, pump and driver, and is an EMT.

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SPONSORED BY Internet • Telephone • Television 118 Spruce St., Eagle River, WI 54521 (715) 480-4800

Corrine J. Metzger Corrine has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 16 years. She currently holds the rank of secretary. In addition, Corrine has been an EMTIntermediate with Medic 10 ambulance service for 13 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by ABC Computers Inc. Corrine is a state-certified Firefighter I and II, and a state and nationally registered EMT-Intermediate. She has completed training in fire inspections, pumper operator, fire ground operations, basic driver operator, Learning thru Burning, advanced trauma assessment, wildland fire suppression, incident command for EMS and is a juvenile firesetter intervention specialist.

Eagle River Center Eagle River, St. Germain, Phelps & Three Lakes

Les Anderson Les has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department and an EMT for the Medic 10 ambulance service in Three Lakes for 25 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Three Lakes School District. As an EMT, Les has had basic EMT training and is ranked EMTBTLS, -DA and -E, and has taken a course in defensive driving. As a state-certified firefighter, Les has completed courses in Firefighter I. He is a CPR instructor.

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Tim Frank Tim has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 16 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Gasco. As a state-certified firefighter, Tim has completed courses in Firefighter I.

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Nelson’s Eagle River

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In Lac du Flambeau on Hwy. 47

THREE LAKES Oct. 12, 2011

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Page 11

Three Lakes gets multipurpose truck New Polaris UTV will be big asset for trail rescues ___________

BY GARY RIDDERBUSCH NEWS-REVIEW EDITOR

___________

The Three Lakes Fire Department purchased two new fire and rescue vehicles in 2011, including a multipurpose brush truck and a utility vehicle (UTV). The Ford F-350 four-wheel drive truck is officially called “Brush 2” when paged out, but it will be used more as a multipurpose vehicle for the department, according to Lt. Lee Tauer. “It will be the first truck out for rescues in the summer and fall, it will be a brush truck in the spring, and in the winter it will be used for hauling our trail rescue equipment,” said Tauer. “The truck is equipped with traction tires for winter travel.” The truck features a stainlesssteel modular box on the back that can easily be removed for departmental needs at the time. The compartments carry chain saws, rescue equipment and brush-fire tools. The $45,000 truck was funded through the town of Three Lakes’ 2011 budget. The truck still needs to be rigged with additional rescue accessories, including a winch on the front bumper and scene lighting. “With the modular box removed, we can use the truck to carry items for our fundraisers and, since it has a crew cab, personnel can use the truck to travel for training,” said Tauer. “It really is a multitask vehicle for the department.” Firefighter Bob Canada also was on the truck committee and helped design the modular box. The department also took delivery of a new Polaris Ranger HD 800 UTV in September. The Ranger features side-by-side seating and electronic

Three Lakes took delivery of a new Polaris UTV in September.

Three Lakes Fire Department Lt. Lee Tauer stands next to the department’s new Ford four-wheel drive brush truck.

power steering, according to Tauer. The UTV will be outfitted with a Frontier track system for off-road rescues during the winter months. The back of the Ranger will be equipped with a Stokes basket to transport an injured person as well as a seat for an emergency medical technician (EMT). “The UTV with tracks will really improve our winter trail rescue capabilities,” said Tauer. The $15,000 UTV was funded through a $4,500 Plum Creek challenge grant, a $3,000 grant from Trig’s (through employee Linda Remington) and the remainder from Three Lakes Fire Department fundraisers. The Three Lakes Fire Department also purchased several pieces of TNT vehicle extrication equipment in 2011, including a new Jaws of Life and cutters. The state-of-the-art equipment is used by rescue personnel at an accident scene. Rescue personnel said the old cut-

The multipurpose truck features a modular rear box for a variety of rescue missions. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTOS

ter had 80,000 pounds per square inch (PSI) of cutting force, while the new cutter has 260,000 PSI of cutting force, which will cut through the new alloys used in vehicles. The new equipment was funded by the Three Lakes Fire Department Auxiliary. The fire department owes much of its success to the tens of thousands of dollars in proceeds given by the local auxiliary group over the past 19 years. Since 1992, when the auxiliary was formed, it has helped the fire department purchase many items important to the team of firefighters. The auxiliary was developed, after two major fires in downtown Three Lakes, to bring food and water to firefighters on scene as needed. Fire Chief Herb Stuckart couldn’t stress enough the importance of the auxiliary for the department. “It’s volunteers like the auxiliary who are the backbone, letting departments like us grow,” said Stuckart. Last year, the auxiliary donated

six hand-held radios, a handful of Class A uniforms, a K-12 saw with a diamond blade and a number of other items. The money for these items is raised through events like Pumpkin Fest held in the fall. Over the years, the auxiliary has also bought a large number of things, including a fully furnished kitchen and a washer-and-dryer set for the fire shed. They also pay for many of the firefighters’ training classes. Stuckart said the Three Lakes Fire Department continues to remain one of the most well-trained and well-equipped departments in the area. It holds monthly training sessions in fire-fighting, emergency rescue and medical assistance to update knowledge and reinforce proper techniques for safely fighting fires. “Department personnel have shown an amazing amount of dedicaTo THREE LAKES, Pg. 13

THREE LAKES Page 12

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Kim Terlizzi

Ted Stuckart Ted has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 13 years, and is a volunteer EMT for the Medic 10 ambulance service. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is vice president of operations at Lakes Precision Inc. As a firefighter with 24 years’ experience, Ted has completed courses in Firefighter I and fire ground command. He is a training officer for First Responder program, an EMT Intermediate technician and a member of the Oneida County Ambulance, CPR-certified and as an EMT, trained for manual defibrillation.

Kim has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 14 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Ron Orzech Heating, Cooling & Refrigeration. Kim was 1999 Firefighter of the Year.

SPONSORED BY

Kimberly A. Maney Kimberly has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 10 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes. As a state-certified firefighter, Kimberly has completed courses in Firefighter I, swift-water rescue and ice rescue, is a certified lifeguard and an EMT IV tech.

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY Eagle River Center In Lac du Flambeau on Hwy. 47

Eagle River, St. Germain, Phelps & Three Lakes

Michelle Orzech Michelle has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 9 years and an EMT for 7 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by the Three Lakes Police Department. Michelle is a state-certified Firefighter II, is certified in CPR and has completed courses in wildland fire, hazmat and EMT training. She is an EMT-IV tech, a haz-mat technician, fire investigator and public education officer.

Anthony Terlizzi

Randall Gensler Randall has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department/Medic 10 for 9 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Gensler Excavating & Crushing. Randall is a state-certified Firefighter II and has completed courses in hazmat tech, EMT-Basic, extrication, advanced pumps & pumping, and breathing apparatus maintenance.

Anthony has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 9 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Sweetwater Spirits & Resort. Anthony is a state-certified Firefighter I and has completed courses in wildland fires.

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Nanc Bollmann Nanc has been a volunteer EMT-I for Medic 10 ambulance service for 33 years. She holds the rank of EMS Coordinator. She has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 8 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Saint Mary’s Hospital, and also is selfemployed. Nanc is a state-certified Firefighter I and II, and is also the supervisor of Medic 10, a CPR instructor for Saint Mary’s Hospital and Nicolet College, a hunter safety instructor, first aid instructor, BTLS, CPR, combitube and defib-certified, EVOC, EMT-Intermediate licensed and received EMT of the Year award for Vilas and Oneida counties. Nanc is also certified in Emergency Crime Scene Response and Flight Care Air Ambulance-state licensed.

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THREE LAKES Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Three Lakes FROM PAGE 11

tion to become fully trained,” said Stuckart. “Even longtime EMTs are taking all of the firefighter training, including state certification.” To be certified as EMTs, department members had to complete a 180-hour class, which met two days a week for four hours a night. The department held its fourth Radar Run and Shoot-Out in June 2011. The funds are earmarked for the construction of a second fire station on the east side of the Three Lakes Chain along Highway 32. This year’s event raised more than $24,000. “We want to have another building on the east side of Three Lakes so we are able to respond to fires more quickly,” said Stuckart. “We are currently clearing the site.” Other equipment Stuckart said a 105-foot ladder truck remains a valuable asset for the fire department. The 1988 Pierce-built truck was purchased by Goldridge Group of Eau Claire, the owners and developers of the Northernaire condominiums on Deer Lake. The donation was one of about two dozen conditions attached to the county zoning permit for the right to develop the multifamily project, which includes two massive lodges that are at least 35 feet high. The ladder truck is a crucial piece of equipment because structures, both residential and commercial, are being built taller. The ladder truck’s nozzle can be operated by a firefighter positioned at the peak or it can be operated from the truck without putting anyone in danger, officials said. Three Lakes also employs a 2004 Rosenbauer/Central States fire engine that was purchased by the town, with approval of the electorate. The state-of-the-art engine includes a 1,500-gallons-per-minute (gpm) pump with compressed-air foam capabilities. It also has a sixperson cab. “With the 1,500 gallons of water the engine holds and a foam cell, we get the equivalent of 5,000 gallons of fire-fighting capability,” said Stuckart. “That is great news for quick, initial attacks using just our main engine.” He added that foam suffocates fire more efficiently than water. The engine responds to all vehicle accidents and is equipped with extrication equipment that includes a hydraulic JAWS unit and air-powered vehicle lifters. The department also has a 3,000-

gallon tanker, equipped with a 750gpm pump, a 1,500-gpm engine with a 1,000-gallon tank, and a 1,250-gpm engine with a 500-gallon tank. The department has the capability of responding to the scene with more than 7,000 gallons of water and a combined pumping capability of 3,800 gpm. “This much water and pumping capability, when combined with the tremendously improved water supply resulting from the new water tower and the department’s halfmile of large-diameter supply hose, provides for some really awesome fire suppression potential,” said Stuckart. A rescue/support van carries a portable Cascade system for supplying a source of breathing air for the firefighters’ individual air bottles and an assortment of other necessary items and supplies to enable it to respond in support of Three Lakes Medic 10. It also can function as a command post and communications center for operations of a complex or extended nature. The department also has a lightduty vehicle that was donated by Wisconsin Public Service. In addition to the new UTV, the department has a rescue boat with a 40-horsepower Honda outboard motor. The boat has proven to be useful and necessary on a three-season basis. The department’s oldest vehicle is a 1937 engine, which serves as a parade vehicle and as a memorial to deceased Three Lakes firefighters. Training vital In the last five years, the department made major advancements on Firefighter II certification, haz-mat training and high-tech equipment. Stuckart said nearly 20 of the department’s members have completed the 42 hours of instruction and the state examination to achieve Firefighter II status. “That training is on top of the 96 hours of classroom and hands-on instruction they received to become certified in Firefighter I,” Stuckart said. “It’s an enormous commitment, but our entire membership is dedicated to the goal of getting that certification.” The Three Lakes department is qualified to respond to accidents involving hazardous materials as well. “Development of an initial response team means we now have our own haz-mat trailer, which was received from Oneida County Emergency Government with the help of a state grant,” said Stuckart. Three Lakes also advanced the versatility of the department by

Page 13

Three Lakes firefighters Kevin Shepherd, left, and Robert Canada display the new cutting tools purchased by the department. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

starting a cadet training program seven years ago for youths between the ages of 16 and 18. Stuckart explained that they are always looking for new recruits, both for the fire department and emergency medical services. Considering there is a shortage of firefighters in some communities, Stuckart said Three Lakes is one of the fortunate ones. “We have a well-equipped, welltrained department and a number of young people who are willing to take the training and get involved,” said Stuckart. The department also is blessed with firefighters who are committed to being cross-trained as EMTs, where they serve Oneida County Ambulance Medic 10. “Many members of the department also are cross-trained EMTs. That is an immeasurable benefit in nearly any type of emergency situation,” said Stuckart. Public safety Also of major significance with respect to public safety and education is the issue of fire inspections. All businesses in the Three Lakes area are inspected semiannually, as required by Wisconsin statute. The inspections are conducted in

the spring and fall, at a time when they will be least disruptive to business activities. The majority of Three Lakes firefighters have been trained in fire inspection procedures. The annual fire department picnic, held the first Sunday of August, is one of the town’s largest social events and is the department’s largest single fundraiser. Stuckart said the community greatly supports the fire department and he hopes it will continue into the future. “With their continued support,” he said, “we will be able to steadily improve the quality and scope of our services.” He added that the Three Lakes Fire Department is always receptive to new members who are willing to give freely of their time for such a worthy cause. The department gives annual presentations for students at Three Lakes Elementary School and various other National Fire Prevention Week activities for public-sector training. The fire station is located in the Three Lakes Industrial Park just west of the downtown area. It also houses the Oneida County Medic 10 ambulance, operated by Three Lakes EMTs.

THREE LAKES Page 14

Oct. 12, 2011

Andy Beach Andy has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 7 years, and also is a volunteer for Medic 10 ambulance service. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Oneida County EMS as a paramedic on Medic 4. Andy is a state-certified Firefighter I and driver operator for both pumper and aerial apparatus. Andy is a certified BLS instructor as well as a certified instructor for ITLS (International Trauma Life Support). He is a certified NREMT-P and is certified in ACLS, PHTLS, ITLS, PALS and NRP.

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Paul D. Savage Paul has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department/ Medic 10 for 7 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Schoeneck Home Improvements Inc. Paul is a state-certified Firefighter I, a nationally registered and state-certified EMTB, and is NIMS 700 certified. He is currently working to become PADI-certified in dive rescue.

SPONSORED BY

Dan Ogarek Dan has been a volunteer firefighter/EMT for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 7 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital in Marshfield as a critical-care transport nurse. As a state-certified Firefighter I, Dan has completed training in Firefighter I: Essentials of Firefighting, CPR and first aid. He is a CPR instructor, and a trauma nurse coordinator at St. Josephâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital with EMT Basic training completed. He serves on the Medic 10 crew of the Oneida County Ambulance Service in Three Lakes. He is certified as an ATCN and NNIC.

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Kristin Antosh Kristin has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 4 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Northern Lake Service. Kristin is a state-certified Firefighter I and II.

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FIRE PREVENTION WEEK OCT. 9-15, 2011 Kelly Keating Kelly has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 4 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes. Kelly has completed entry level I and II and is a state-certified Firefighter I and II, First Responder, has had wildfire training and is CPR certified. She is an Army combat veteran and was in the service for 9 years.

SPONSORED BY

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Jeff Janssen Jeff has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 4 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by the Northland Pines School District. Jeff is a state-certified Firefighter I and II.

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THREE LAKES Oct. 12, 2011

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Richard Vande Hei Richard has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 4 years. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Ministry Health Care-Saint Mary’s Hospital. Richard is a state-certified Firefighter I and has completed EMT-Basic national certification. He spent 12 years as a firefighter in the military, and has completed courses in aircraft firefighting, haz-mat, chemical and biological warfare, is fire marshal qualified and received Sec. of Navy medal for firefighting. He has received various letters of commendation for firefighting and training.

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Angel has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 3 years, and a volunteer for Medic 10 ambulance service for 3 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Sacred Heart-Saint Mary’s Hospital as an Oneida County ambulance paramedic. Angel is a paramedic with 3 years’ experience. Angel is ACLS, PALS, NRP and PHTLS certified.

Diahn has been a volunteer for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 3 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes. As a firefighter, Diahn has completed courses in entry level 1 and 2.

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R U

UTE TO O L SA

Kerstin Gensler Kerstin has been a volunteer for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 2 years. She is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Lakes Precision.

VILAS COUNTY

NEWS-REVIEW Eagle River

Kevin Shepherd

FIREFIGHTERS & EMERGENCY SERVICES PERSONNEL Mikey Silber Mikey has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 1 year.

He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by the Elmer’s Fun Park and Baker’s Three Lakes Foods.

He is a resident of Three Lakes.

Joseph has been a volunteer for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 2 years.

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Timothy Riebe Timothy has been a volunteer for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 1 year.

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As a firefighter, Joseph has completed courses in Firefighter I, is an EMT-Intermediate and a scuba diving instructor.

Kevin has been a volunteer firefighter for the Three Lakes Fire Department for 2 years.

As a firefighter, Kevin has completed courses in Firefighter I and II.

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Page 15

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Page 16

Oct. 12, 2011

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Emergency FROM PAGE 9

ducted a series of exercises culminating with a full-scale exercise based on a school violence scenario during the first half of 2009. These exercises will result in improved planning and response coordination that will benefit our citizens in any event that necessitates the evacuation of a school. Disaster preparedness Disaster preparedness and response has four basic components: preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation. Preparedness consists of everything discussed to this point. Outreach, planning, training, equipment acquisition and exercising are all important components of preparedness. Response includes actions taken to save lives and prevent property damage in a disaster or emergency situation. Response is putting the emergency plans into action. Response activities take place during an incident and often merge with recovery. Recovery includes actions taken to return to a normal or even safer situation following an emergency. Recovery activities take place after an emergency and begin with damage assessment. This information is then forwarded to Wisconsin Emergency Man-

Page 17

agement and will be the basis for requesting state and federal assistance. Mitigation includes any activities that prevent an emergency, reduce the chance of an emergency happening, or reduce the damaging effects of unavoidable emergencies. Mitigation opportunities may occur before, during and after an emergency but are usually acted upon during and after recovery. Hazardous materials Vilas County Emergency Management is responsible for several areas associated with hazardous materials. The first is record keeping. Emergency management keeps a record of the location, type and the amount of hazardous material stored at each facility required to report this information. These records are available to the public as required by P.L. 99-949 the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986. County emergency management is able to facilitate the response to hazardous materials incidents in a number of ways. Emergency management secures hazardous material response training grants for area fire departments at the level they choose to participate. Emergency management secures hazardous material response equipment grants for these same departments when funding is available.

Thank you to all our area emergency personnel.

Jim Galloway, Vilas County Emergency Management director, and the Local Emergency Planning Committee has produced a Residential Guide to Emergency Preparedness available at the courthouse. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Emergency management coordinates the local response with the Oneida County Level B Hazardous Materials Response Team and the Wausau Level A Regional Hazardous Materials Response Team for large

haz-mat incidents. And finally, emergency management attempts to recover the costs of a response from the “spiller or responsibile party” so that the affected jurisdiction can be reimbursed.

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Page 18

Oct. 12, 2011

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Oct. 12, 2011

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Page 19

With low fire activity on Chequamegon-Nicolet, Forest Service personnel take other assignments ___________

the northwest corner of the forest treated the majority of these acres. They treated more than 3,000 acres of pine barren habitat as part of an ecological restoration project. The forest will continue to meet management objectives by conducting additional prescribed burns throughout the fall if weather and ground conditions permit. On the Eagle River-Florence District, crews have been preparing areas where the severe storms of early spring have damaged timber. The damaged timber was removed by logging operations. Fire personnel are using equipment to create piles of the remaining slash (limbs and non-merchantable wood, etc.) which will be burned to reduce the risk of hazardous fuel build-up and prepare the ground for tree planting or natural regeneration by removing the debris left behind.

BY HEATHER MARTENS ENGINE CAPTAIN CNNF USDA FOREST SERVICE

___________

Fire activity on the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest (CNNF) in 2011 is down compared to last year, but forest crews have been busy with fire suppression efforts in other parts of the United States and controlled burns locally. The 2011 spring fire season was less active than spring fire seasons over the past few years, as cooler temperatures and more moisture kept fire danger low. Meanwhile, the summer months provided the North Woods with enough moisture to keep fire danger at lower levels. The CNNF has had 22 fires within the forest jurisdictional boundaries as of Sept. 1. During the 2010 season, 56 fires had occurred by this same time. These numbers clearly indicate the moisture relief kept the number of fires much lower this year. As drier conditions returned during August and September, fire danger levels began to rise. If the dry pattern continues, it is expected that elevated fire danger will be present into the fall months on the CNNF. Nationally, 45,397 fires had occurred through the end of August. These fires burned more than 6 million acres. Last year, there had been 42,263 fires which burned close to 2.5 million acres. While Wisconsin remains relatively safe from the threat of elevated fire danger, other parts of the United States suffer from record drought conditions and have seen little or no rain in 2011. Southern and southwestern states have been very active with fires this year. Forest dispatcher Steve Radaj of the CNNF Interagency Dispatch Center in Woodruff has filled approximately 300 resource orders this year. Those orders requested equipment, crews and specialized individuals to help with fire suppression efforts nationally. Fire assignments Eagle River-Florence Ranger District fire personnel have assisted with this nationwide effort. Greg Gulan, assistant fire management officer, was assigned to fire assignments in Georgia and Texas where he acted as a task force leader managing fire engines, dozers and specialized logging equipment used for fire line construction. Heather Martens, engine captain,

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest personnel respond to fires in this area and across the nation. A sign in Eagle River displays the local fire danger. --Contributed Photo

was assigned to northern Florida, with an engine and crew to assist with suppression efforts there. Scott Benzing, engine operator, was assigned to fires in Missouri, Texas and Louisiana as part of an engine crew. Bo Queen, engine operator, was assigned to fire suppression efforts as part of an engine crew in Texas and southern Indiana. Many other individuals from other district offices were assigned to various fire assignments in these and other locations. U.S Forest Service personnel have remained busy assisting the national effort of fire suppression. During the past year, personnel started being dispatched for fire suppression efforts in October of 2010. They went to areas in the Midwest where dry conditions kept crews busy into late November. Activity then started picking up in the southern and southwestern states and continued throughout the winter into the months of June, July and August. Activity started picking up in late August in areas of the Rocky Mountain and Great Basin region. A wet spring and early summer contributed to a slightly above-normal fuel loading (or growth of vegetation that is now drying and cured). This is contributing to the recent activity seen in eastern Montana and the western Dakotas. Due to those conditions, the risk for fire potential in those areas could extend later

than normal this year. A cool, wet spring and areas of above-average snow pack and slow snow melt have delayed significant fire potential in the northwestern area of the United States. It is expected that there will be minimal fire activity in the northwest corner of the United States this year. Late into August and September, fire activity picked up in northern Minnesota, sending crews from the area to help assist in a large wildfire that consumed more than 100,000 acres. The National Interagency Fire Center Predictive Services is stating drought conditions are expected to continue across much of the southcentral United States, including most of the interior of Texas, Oklahoma, parts of Arkansas, Louisiana and Kansas. These areas are expected to remain very dry and will require significant amounts of precipitation to return to normal conditions. Fire crews and individuals will remain ready and continue to support the needs of the areas experiencing these dry conditions and elevated levels of fire danger. Controlled burns This year, CNNF personnel were able to complete a number of controlled burns (prescribed fires) to accomplish management objectives. Forest crews treated 4,506 acres with these prescribed fires. The Washburn Ranger District in

Burning permits As a reminder, the Forest Service asks people to take precautions when having a campfire or debris burning. Burning permits are not required for small warming or cook fires except during emergency burning restrictions. Always remember to completely extinguish your fire before leaving the area. Burning permits are required for debris burning anytime the ground is not completely snow covered. There is no cost for these permits and they are good for the calendar year. These permits may be obtained through a local ranger station, from emergency fire wardens or by dialing 1-(888) WIS-BURN to have a permit mailed or emailed instantly. Special permits may be issued for land clearing, larger piles and broadcast burns exceeding the local maximum size limit. These permits will require an inspection by local officials for approval. For any questions, people may contact a local ranger station. Information regarding the current fire danger level and burning restrictions can be found on the Onternet at dnr.wi.gov or by calling 1-(888) WISBURN. The information is updated daily after 11 a.m. It is important to remember that if a fire escapes and starts a wildfire, the property owner will likely be held liable for all suppression costs. People may contact Gulan or Martens at the Eagle River-Florence Ranger District at (715) 479-2827 for further information.

EAGLE RIVER Page 20

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Rick Brodhead, M.D. Rick has been a medical director for Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 13 years. He is a resident of Lake Tomahawk and is employed by Howard Young Medical Center/Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Rick is the medical director of emergency services and EMS at Howard Young Medical Center and Eagle River Memorial Hospital. He is board certified, emergency medicine and a Fellow, American College of Emergency Physicians.

Dan Halverson Dan has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 26 years. He currently holds the rank of paramedic. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital as an emergency room technician. Dan is a nationally registered EMT-P and is certified in CPR, ACLS, PALS, NRP, PHTLS and is a CNA. He is a graduate of Northcentral Technical College in Wausau.

Carole Brewer Carole has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 17 years. She currently holds the rank of paramedic. She is a resident of Phelps and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Carol is a nationally registered EMT-P and is certified in CPR, ACLS, PALS, NRP, PHTLS and is a CNA. She is a graduate of Northcentral Technical College in Wausau.

Ann M. Dunphy Ann has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 31 years. She is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Ann is BTLS certified and has training in EMT-I-Tech. She is a lead instructor for Nicolet Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emergency medical services and Wilderness Medical Associates out of Portland, Maine. She volunteers her time for community events, WIAA events and can be seen frequently at the Eagle River Sports Arena.

Jeff Freese Jeff has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 3 years. He currently holds the rank of paramedic and EMS Manager for Eagle River EMS and Oneida County EMS. He is a resident of Rhinelander and is employed by Howard Young Health Care. Jeff is a nationally registered EMT-P and is certified in ACLS, PALS and NRP.

Carol Garrison Carol has been an EMT for 23 years and employed by the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 23 years. She currently holds the rank of paramedic. She is a resident of Conover. Carol is a nationally registered EMT-P and is certified in CPR, ACLS, PALS, NRP, PHTLS and is a CNA. She is a graduate of Northcentral Technical College in Wausau.

Robert S. Cline Robert has been an EMT IVTech for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 8 years. He currently holds the rank of paramedic. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Robert is a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic and is certified in CPR, ACLS, PALS, NRP, PHTLS and is a CNA. He is a graduate of Northcentral Technical College in Wausau. Robert is a vounteer EMT IV-Tech for the town of Conover.

Rick Krus Rick has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 27 years. He currently holds the rank of EMT. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Rick is a nationally registered EMT IV-Tech. He has completed courses in CPR and rescue (First Responder.)

Diane Price Diane has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 26 years. She currently holds the rank of Paramedic II. She is a resident of Conover and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Diane is a nationally registered EMT-P and is certified in CPR, ACLS, PALS, NRP, PHTLS and is a CNA. She is a graduate of Northcentral Technical College in Wausau, is a certified American Heart Association instructor for CPR, AED and first aid, and teaches for Nicolet College and Ministry Health Care. She also is a member of the Conover Ambulance Squad, and holds a license in Wisconsin and Michigan. She is the deputy Vilas County coroner, eye enucleator for Wisconsin Eye Bank, and is trained in critical stress debriefing. Diane is a Gold Star Mother.

Joan Liebl Joan has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 18 years. She currently holds the rank of paramedic. She is a resident of Conover and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Joan is a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic, and has completed courses in CPR, ACLS, PALS, PHTLS, is a certified nursing assistant and neonatal resuscitation provider. She is a graduate of Northcentral Technical College in Wausau.

Kyle Lech Kyle has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 1 year. He currently holds the rank of paramedic. He is a resident of Schofield and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Kyle has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, haz-mat operations, Rapid Intervention Team, EMT-Paramedic, is certified in ACLS, PALS, PHTLS and NRP. He is a volunteer firefighter/EMT for the village of Weston and city of Schofield, and is an adjunct instructor for fire and EMS at Northcentral Technical College.

Jim Knupp Jim has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 22 years and a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 21 years. He currently holds the rank of EMT IV-Tech. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Jim is a nationally registered EMT IV-Tech and is certified in CPR. He has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, rescue and haz-mat tech.

EAGLE RIVER Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Page 21

Technology links paramedics, EMTs to hospital emergency room departments ___________

BY GARY RIDDERBUSCH NEWS-REVIEW EDITOR

___________

Howard Young Medical Center and Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital have implemented the LIFENET® System, an electronic link between emergency medical technicians (EMT) responding to 911 calls in the field and hospital emergency departments. The system was made possible through the support of the Howard Young Foundation. The technology allows doctors in the emergency department at both hospitals to see and review critical information about the patient prior to the patient arriving in the emergency room. LIFENET transmits vital signs from accident and trauma victims being raced to hospital emergency rooms by EMTs and paramedics. “LIFENET has been invaluable to our medical staff in the field and inside our facilities by connecting paramedics and EMTs with the emergency department physician in real time,” said Jeffrey Freese, Ministry Howard Young Health Care (MHYHC) emergency medical services manager. “The new technology allows physicians and nurses in the hospital to focus on treatment decisions and patient care while LIFENET works quietly and effortlessly in the background, both in the field and in the hospital’s emergency department,” said Freese. The visual communication that LIFENET provides is especially important in a critical situation, such as a patient having a heart attack, according to Freese. The technology allows the emergency department doctor the ability to view a 12-lead electrocardiogram (EKG) being performed by the EMTs in the ambulance prior to the patient arriving in the emergency room. EKGs provide critical diagnostic information about the electrical activity of a patient’s heart. The physician can make real-time treatment decisions based on the data provided by EMTs in the field, which helps the emergency medical team in the hospital get definitive treatment to the pa-

The LIFENET System provides instant patient information to the hospital emergency room. --Contributed Photo

Once a patient is in the ambulance, Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital paramedics can communi-

cate the patient’s vital signs to the emergency room through LIFENET System. --NEWS-REVIEW

tients much more rapidly. “Timing as it pertains to heart attacks is critically important,” said Dr. Rick Brodhead, M.D., director of emergency services at Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital and Howard Young Medical Center. “The benefit of LIFENET is that we can diagnose a person having a heart attack as soon as they transmit the EKG to the emergency department and begin specific treatment in the ambulance,” said Brodhead. “The technology allows us to read the EKG and have a proper treatment plan ready before the patient arrives at the hospital.” Sheila Clough, MHYHC president, said the sys-

tem will help save lives. “This technology will advance our ability to communicate with EMTs and paramedics responding to calls in the field in a way that best serves our patients,” said Clough. “Receiving the EKG results of heart attack patients before they arrive at the hospital has life-saving benefits.” Ministry Health Care is a values-driven healthcare delivery network of aligned hospitals, clinics and other providers, based in Wisconsin and Minnesota. With more than 12,000 employees including physicians and health professionals, Ministry also offers home health, hospice, long-term care facilities, a health plan and many other services.

Gene Stanzil

Jennifer Wagner

Gene has been an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 5 years. He currently holds the rank of EMTIV Tech. He is a resident of Three Lakes and is employed by Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital. Gene is a nationally registered EMT-IV Tech, a CNA, NRP, and is certified in CPR, ACLS, PALS and PHTLS. He is a graduate of Northcentral Technical College in Wausau.

Jennifer has been a volunteer firefighter for the Eagle River Area Fire Department for 4 years, and an EMT for the Ministry Eagle River Memorial Hospital Ambulance Service for 8 years. She currently holds the rank of EMT-I Tech/CNA. She is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Eagle River Memorial Hospital as the health unit coordinator for the emergency department. Jennifer is certified in ACLS, PHTLS, is a nationally registered EMT and certified Firefighter I.

Page 22

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Hiles offers early Fire Prevention Week program Fire Prevention Week is being recognized Oct. 9-15 with the theme of “Protect Your Family From Fire.” It commemorates the Great Chicago fire in October 1871, where 250 people died and 17,000 buildings were destroyed. This tragedy inspired reform across America, spurring new fire safety codes and public awareness campaigns. The north station of the Hiles Fire Department, located near Butternut and Franklin lakes in Forest County, observed Fire Prevention Week over the Labor Day weekend in order to capture weekend visitors and seasonal residents. On display were the department’s three vehicles and fire-fighting and medical equipment. The department particularly wanted to show off its latest acquisition — a 2000 Pierce 1,250-gallons-per-minute pumper. The truck was transferred from the Hiles main station after the town board purchased a 2011 pumper for that location. Over Labor Day weekend, fire department members were stationed at the entrance to the fire department and recycle center location on Babcock Road. They stopped those entering to talk about fire safety in their home. Each vehicle received a safety kit with stickers, brochures, safety information and pencils. Some smoke alarms were provided to those who needed them. A special treat for young and old alike was fire department member Dave Parker bringing his friend, Sparky the Safety Dog, to talk to those passing through. Parker is a well-known ventriloquist who performs locally and across the country.

Children and friends of the Gallagher family of Butternut Lake help Hiles firefighters Dave Parker (assisted by Sparky

the safety dog) and Tom Seccombe spray water from a fire hose as part of the town of Hiles fire prevention activities.

Smoke alarms recommended for every bedroom The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside all sleeping areas and on every level of the home, including the basement. According to the NFPA, many homes still don’t have that level of protection. Unfortunately, almost two-thirds of home fire deaths per year result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms at all or no working smoke alarms. The theme for Fire Prevention Week 2011, which runs from Oct. 9 to 15, is “It’s Fire Prevention Week. Protect Your Family From Fire!” The NFPA has been the official sponsor

of Fire Prevention Week for 89 years. “Many U.S. homes may still only have one smoke alarm,” said an NFPA spokesperson. “That is simply not enough.” The NFPA emphasizes that smoke alarms must be installed in all bedrooms, not just near them, to ensure that everyone is alerted in time to escape safely. Smoke alarms can cut the chances of dying in a fire in half, but they must be working properly to do so. The NFPA’s data shows that many homes have smoke alarms that aren’t working or maintained properly, usually because of missing, disconnected or dead batteries.

According to the NFPA, interconnected smoke alarms offer the best protection. When one sounds, they all do. This is particularly important in larger or multistory homes, where the sound from distant smoke alarms may be reduced to the point that it may not be loud enough to provide proper warning, especially for sleeping individuals. Interconnected smoke alarms can be hard wired or wireless battery-operated interconnected alarms are now available.

Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button and make sure everyone in your home knows their sound.

The NFPA offers the following tips for making sure smoke alarms are maintained and working properly.

To find out more about Fire Prevention Week and smoke alarms, visit the NFPA’s website at firepreventionweek.org.

If an alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away. Replace all smoke alarms, including alarms that use 10-year batteries and hard-wired alarms, when they’re 10 years old, or sooner, if they do not respond properly when tested.

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Page 23

New director, hybrid vehicle safety training among latest developments in Nicolet program The new leader of the Protective Services Department at Nicolet Area Technical College (NATC) in Rhinelander has a very clear vision of what he wants to accomplish as director. “In the big picture, it all comes down to serving the people of northern Wisconsin in the most effective ways possible,” said Jason Goeldner, who took over the department’s top job in June of 2011. “That is the overriding goal everyone in the department is working to accomplish.” Goeldner comes to the post with more than 20 years of experience in the field. This includes 10 years as a professional firefighter and medic with the Rhinelander Fire Department and many years as a fire technician and then instructor at NATC. He succeeds Lynn Larsen, who retired after serving more than 30 years in various capacities in protective services and law enforcement fields. In his spare time, Goeldner serves as chief of the Sugar Camp Volunteer Fire Department, chief of the Oneida County Hazardous Response Team and deputy director of Oneida County Emergency Management. This broad base of experience is invaluable when working with the many different constituencies with a wide variety of training needs, said Goeldner. “You really get a good idea of where people are coming from,” he explained. “And that goes a long way in meeting the training needs of many different organizations and individuals.” Training in Vilas County That experience will come in handy as Goeldner moves the department forward. In the last year alone, 196 Vilas County residents took part in 12 emergency and protective services trainings provided by NATC and held in the area communities of Land O’ Lakes, Phelps, Three Lakes, St. Germain and Boulder Junction. The classes included certified Firefighter I and II, LP natural gas fires, pumper truck operation, lockout/tagout, incident command and hybrid vehicle extrication and rescue. “Many of these individuals came in with a wealth of knowledge and experience and some had also worked professionally in the field,” Goeldner said. “Others were relatively new to this type of training and were just getting started with a volunteer organization, such as a town fire department.

Jason Goeldner, the new director of Protective Services at Nicolet Area Technical College, comes to the position with

“The challenge is to serve both groups and bridge the gap between the professionals and the volunteers,” he said. Hybrid vehicle training One of the classes held in St. Germain was hybrid vehicle extrication and rescue. This is a new offering from the college that was just launched last year to help emergency responders work safely around hybrids. NATC instructor Chris Bartelt teaches the hybrid class. It’s not really the vehicles themselves that pose the danger, he said, but rather the large amounts of electricity stored in hybrid batteries. “You definitely do not want to cut through the wrong wire when you are working on a hybrid at an accident scene,” said Bartelt, who also is an emergency responder. During each workshop, Bartelt

more than 20 years of wide-ranging experience in the field. --Contributed Photo

goes through the components of a hybrid vehicle, where the danger points are and where it is safe to use implements such as the Jaws of Life to gain access to an accident victim. The mantra Bartelt repeats over and over again is: “Never cut through the orange and blue cables,” which can carry as much as 650 volts of electricity. “That’s plenty to get electrocuted,” he said. To put it in perspective, the typical household electrical outlet carries 120 volts. “Now imagine getting hit with three times that much,” he warned. Electricity isn’t the only safety concern. For sheriff’s deputies, state troopers and municipal police officers who pull over vehicles, the lack of engine noise when a hybrid is in electric mode combined with a backup camera in the rear of the vehicle can spell trouble.

“Just because you can’t hear the engine doesn’t mean it isn’t running,” he explained. “Bad guys can use vehicles as weapons, so the rule here for law enforcement is never stand in front of or behind a hybrid.” Keeping up with such changes in vehicle technology is nothing new for emergency responders and law enforcement officials. “A generation ago, it was learning how to work safely around air bags,” Bartelt said. “Hybrids are just the latest advancement. There will be more.” Already, more than 200 emergency responders, firefighters and law enforcement officers from throughout the North Woods have taken the workshops. Streamlining services The Protective Services DepartTo NICOLET, Pg. 27

SUGAR CAMP Page 24

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Jason Goeldner

Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 29 years. He currently holds the rank of assistant chief.

Jason has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 6 years. He currently holds the rank of chief. He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by Nicolet Area Technical College as a fire, safety and OSHA instructor. A former member of the Rhinelander Fire Department for more than 10 years, Jason is a state-certified Firefighter I, II and III, driver operator pumper, fire instructor, fire officer, EPA hazmat technician and a member of the Oneida County Haz-Mat Team and Task Force 6 – Heavy Rescue.

He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by the town of Sugar Camp. Mike is a licensed fire inspector. He has completed Firefighter I training and is a state-certified firefighter. Mike is also a state-certified EMT.

Jeff McDonald

He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by Parsons of Eagle River.

He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by Oneida County Emergency Management.

Ron Millard Ron is a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department. He currently holds the rank of fire inspector.

Mike Holewinski Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 37 years. He is a resident of Rhinelander and is employed by Pitlik & Wick Inc. As a state-certified firefighter, Mike has completed courses in multimedia standard first aid, basic life support in CPR, Firefighter I and II, pumps and pumping, LP gas training, Jaws of Life training (extrication), advanced first aid and EMT-Basic.

He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is retired from the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department. As a firefighter, Ron has completed courses in advanced first aid, CPR, is an arson investigator and a deputy sheriff for the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department.

Scott L. Holewinski Scott has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 30 years.

As a certified firefighter, Scott has completed courses in multimedia first aid, basic life support in CPR, Firefighter I and II, hazardous waste, and pumps and pumping. He was also assistant training officer.

Ken Kortenhof Ken has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 23 years. He currently holds the rank of secretary/treasurer.

Jeff is a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant.

He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by Birch Builders.

Mike Kortenhof

NO PHOTO AVAILABLE

Gib Zmek

Glenn Kortenhof Glenn has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 10 years. He currently holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Sugar Camp and employed by Oneida County Ambulance.

Randy Ingram Randy has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 14 years. He currently holds the rank of safety officer. He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by the Wisconsin Professional Police Association.

Pat Holewinski Pat has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 37 years. He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by Pitlik & Wick Inc. As a certified firefighter, Pat has completed courses in Firefighter I, mod 1, CPR and first aid.

Kevin L. Olson

Gib has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 29 years.

Kevin has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 25 years.

He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is retired.

He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by Olson Electric.

As a firefighter, Gib has completed courses in Firefighter I.

As a certified firefighter, Kevin has completed courses in Firefighter I, CPR, first aid, arson investigation, defensive driving, hazardous materials, wildland fires, and incident and command.

SUGAR CAMP Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Page 25

Sugar Camp hopes for grant assistance, named Oneida Fire Department of Year ___________

BY ANTHONY DREW NEWS-REVIEW ASST. EDITOR

___________

The Sugar Camp Fire Department was named 2010 Fire Department of the Year by the Oneida County Firefighters Association. The award recognizes the department for its commitment and dedication to the citizens of Oneida County. In an effort to continue its exemplary service to area residents, the department applied for a Department of Natural Resources (DNR) grant in 2011 that would allow the purchase of a new skid unit for one of its trucks. “It’s a slide-in pump and water tank to replace the existing system that we currently have,” said Fire Chief Jason Goeldner. “It also will have updated features for wildland fire-fighting capabilities.” The skid unit will update the homemade system the department is currently using, and carries a price tag of about $17,000. “We’re also looking at applying for, if it ever opens, the Assistance to Firefighters grant,” said Goeldner. The grant would include funding for new self-contained breathing apparatus, which provide firefighters with heat- and fire-resistant tanks of breathable air to be used in dangerous and smoke-filled areas. “We’re looking at roughly a $90,000 grant and we would have to pay 5% of what we’re awarded,” said Goeldner. Other than grant applications, it’s business as usual for Sugar Camp firefighters, who are still in partnership with the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department in using its 20-foot air boat obtained in 2009, which can be used year-round for water and ice rescues. “We go out once or twice a year doing training in the air boat,” said Goeldner. “We also set up the navigational buoys for the Chain. The sheriff ’s department borrows it sometimes to go out on dives.” In 2010, the department expanded its underground water tank, more than doubling its total capacity to 24,000 gallons of water, giving firefighters the ability to return to the station for water instead of relying on lakes. “It’s still in place, it’s still operating for us and it’s working well for

Sugar Camp Fire Department firefighters standing with Oneida County’s 2011 Fire Department of the Year award

us,” said Goeldner. “Having this underground water supply is a quick way for us to obtain water without having to go to a lake or drill a hole in the ice. It helps speed up our response time.” In 2009, the department acquired a new pumper-tanker truck. The 2008 Pierce Contender replaced a 1980 Ford engine. The new engine meets the National Fire Protection Agency 1901 standard. “A new feature of the Pierce Contender is onboard Class A foam, which will help with grass and structure fires,” said Goeldner. “The engine cost of $207,000 was budgeted through the town of Sugar Camp,” he said. That same year, several firefighters from the Sugar Camp department received specialized training from the Department of the Interior in the Horicon Marsh area, bringing information back to train other depart-

include, from left, Alex Kaphingst, Glen Kortenhof and Jake Nitzel. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

ment members. Training also is held with the Oneida County dive team. Also in 2009, the department received an $8,700 grant which it used to purchase 35 sets of wildland fire gear. This included a number of suits and helmets as well as 50 gallons of Class A foam. In 2007, the department received a $5,800 grant from the Forest Fire Protection and Volunteer Fire Assistance grant programs administered by the DNR. The monies were used for personal protective equipment, forest-fire training and forest-fire suppression tools and equipment. Sugar Camp also added a cadet program that year for young recruits to gain experience with the department. Under the program, cadets get the same experience as other firefighters under special safety restrictions. The department used a grant to

purchase six new sets of turnout gear, 24 helmets and 24 pairs of gloves, personal safety devices, safety vests, hoods and an infrared camera in 2006. More than a dozen Sugar Camp firefighters have completed Firefighter I certification, and some are certified Firefighter II and III. Many of the firefighters completed extrication, car fire and water-rescue training five years ago. The classes enable the department to react to a variety of situations. Department members also have gained training through courses offered through Nicolet Area Technical College, and have attended several Learning Thru Burning sessions coordinated by the college’s fire training program. During Fire Prevention Week, the firefighters visit the Sugar Camp school, giving the students instrucTo SUGAR CAMP, Pg. 27

SUGAR CAMP Page 26

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Deana Bigley Deana has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 23 years. She is a resident of Sugar Camp. As a certified firefighter, Deana has completed courses in Firefighter I, CPR and standard first aid.

Glenn Woods Glenn has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 11 years. He is a resident of Rhinelander and is employed by Energy Wise Builders.

Dennis Strong Dennis has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 22 years. He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by Oneida County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department. As a certified firefighter, Dennis has completed courses in Firefighter I, ladders and self-contained breathing apparatus.

Jeremy Millard Jeremy has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 11 years. He is a resident of Sugar Camp.

Dean Cook Dean has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 22 years. He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is employed by Ervâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sales & Service. As a state-certified firefighter, Dean has completed courses in Firefighter I, Learning thru Burning, and a first-aid class.

Larry Bauknecht Larry has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 10 years. He is a resident of Rhinelander and is employed by the town of Sugar Camp.

As a firefighter, Glenn has completed courses in Firefighter I, mod 1 and 2.

Josh Joslin Josh has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 8 years. He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is the owner of Superior Plumbing. As a state-certified firefighter, Josh has completed courses in Firefighter I.

Rob Zwettler

Susan Woods Susan has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 6 years.

She is a resident of Sugar Camp and works for the U.S. Postal Service. As a firefighter, Susan has completed courses in Firefighter I and II.

Tim Dobbins

Rob has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 4 years.

Tim has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 4 years.

He is a resident of Rhinelander and is employed by Drs. Foster & Smith.

He is a resident of Sugar Camp and is a fulltime student at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Rob has received certification in open-water diving.

Tim has completed entry-level Firefighter I training.

Alex Kaphingst Alex has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 5 years. He is a resident of Sugar Camp, and is currently a student at Nicolet Area Technical College. Alex has completed Firefighter I and II, and was 2007 Firefighter of the Year.

Jake Nitzel Jake has been a volunteer firefighter for the Sugar Camp Fire Department for 1 year. He is a resident of Rhinelander and is employed by Nicolet Area Technical College (NATC). As a firefighter, Jake has completed courses in ELF 1 and Wildland Fire training. He is a student at NATC, studying criminal justice.

SUGAR CAMP Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Page 27

Sugar Camp FROM PAGE 25

tions on fire prevention and getting out of a burning building. Other equipment The Sugar Camp Fire Department added a Jaws of Life unit as a part of its rescue equipment in 2004. Sugar Camp also purchased a 1982 pumper from the town of Justice, Ill., in 2003 and took delivery of a new tanker in 2002, increasing its water capacity at fires. The town of Sugar Camp purchased the chassis, complete with a 2,000-gallon tank. The truck also features a 1,000-gallons-per-minute (gpm) pump. The truck can be used as a pumper and replaced a 1968 International pumper. The department also has a brush truck/rescue vehicle equipped with emergency medical supplies and fire-fighting equipment, which responds to brush fires. The 2000 F-350 Ford pickup features a 150-gallon water tank, a 500gpm pump and four full-size doors for easy access by emergency personnel. Also installed on the truck is 1,000 feet of 1-inch wildfire hose and all the fittings, portable water packs, air packs, extrication tools and communications equipment. The department’s other pumper was purchased in the mid-1990s. The $90,000 piece of equipment is capable of pumping 1,000 gpm. The department also has two

Sugar Camp firefighters with the new slide-in pump and water tank which has updated features for wildland fire-fight-

tankers, an all-terrain vehicle for hunting, logging and snowmobiling accident rescues and a rescue sled that can be equipped with both skis and tires for year-round rescues.

ing capabilities include, from left, Alex Kaphingst, Jake Nitzel and Glen Kortenhof. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

The Sugar Camp Fire Department vehicles are housed in a 40- by 96-foot garage with six stalls. The garage also houses the Medic 11 Oneida County ambulance.

Sugar Camp

Nicolet FROM PAGE 23

ment which Goeldner oversees includes four program areas: emergency medical services, fire training, Occupational Safety and Health Administration and safety training and traffic safety. Within each are dozens upon dozens of different classes. To make it easier for people to find the training they are looking for, he’s working closely with Web experts on campus to develop a new Protective Services area in the Nicolet College website. “The goal is to make it much more user-friendly. With so many offerings, it can sometimes be challenging for people to find the exact class they want. This should make it easier,” he said. Goeldner pointed out that residents can now dial a single phone number to have questions answered or arrange any needed training. That number is (715) 365-4600.

In addition to grants, a number of organizations such as the Lions Club, other community clubs and the snowmobile club also donate money to the department for equipment.

Whom do you call?

Police

Fire

911

Ambulance Nicolet College Fire, Safety and Occupational Safety and Health Administration instructor Chris Bartelt, standing at right, explains the workings of hybrid vehicles to emergency responders at a safety workshop. --Contributed Photo

911

ST. GERMAIN Page 28

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Timothy Clark Timothy has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 28 years. He currently holds the rank of chief. He is a resident of St. Germain and is self-employed at Trollan Refrigeration, Heating & Electrical. As a state-certified Firefighter I, Timothy has completed courses in responder, rescue squad, Firefighter I, ventilation school, and basic incident command school. Other courses include Incident Command System 100, 200, National Incident Management System 700, and weapons of mass destruction. He has extrication training and is a member of the rapid intervention team.

James R. Sherren James has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 27 years. He currently holds the rank of deputy chief. He is a resident of St. Germain and is self-employed. As a state-certified firefighter, James has completed courses in Firefighter I, First Responder, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, weapons of mass destruction, ventilation school and basic incident command school, and has had extrication training.

Tim R. Gebhardt Tim has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 19 years. He currently holds the rank of assistant chief. He is a resident of St. Germain and is self-employed. As a state-certified Firefighter I, Tim has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, weapons of mass destruction, incident command, combat lifesaver, is hazardous materials certified, attended the National Fire Academy course in company training officer, company tactics and ice rescue training. He has extrication training and is a member of the rapid intervention team. Tim was Firefighter of the Year in 1994 and 1996.

SPONSORED BY

John Vojta John has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 7 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Knitt’s Hardware and self-employed. As a firefighter, John has completed courses in Firefighter I and First Responder, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, weapons of mass destruction, and a member of the Rapid Intervention Team. John is a St. Germain Town Board Supervisor.

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NICOLET COLLEGE Rhinelander

Eagle River, St. Germain, Phelps & Three Lakes

Internet • Telephone • Television 118 Spruce St., Eagle River, WI 54521 (715) 480-4800

Troy Schalinske

Timothy W. Ebert

Judy Kohout

Troy has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 6 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by the Vilas County Highway Department. As a state-certified Firefighter I, Troy has completed entry level Firefighter I and II, state-certified Firefighter I, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, weapons of mass destruction, and is a First Responder. He has extrication training and is a member of the rapid intervention team.

Timothy has been a volunteer firefighter for 33 years, 32 of those years he has been an officer. Eight of those years were served as chief. He currently holds the rank of Safety Officer. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by the town of St. Germain. As a state-certified firefighter, Tim has completed courses in CPR training, First Responder training, Learning Thru Burning, Firefighter I and II, pumps, company officer training, flammable liquids, hazardous materials, water relay training, ventilation school and basic incident command school. Other courses include Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700 and weapons of mass destruction. He is a member of the rapid intervention team. He has been on the hydrant committee, has training in cold-water rescue, vehicle extrication and training in IC system. He also was Firefighter of the Year in 1982.

Judy has been a volunteer First Responder for the St. Germain Fire Department for 9 years. She currently holds the rank of treasurer. She is a resident of St. Germain and is retired. Judy is a First Responder, certified in CPR and defib., had courses in Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, weapons of mass destruction, and extrication training. She is a fire prevention officer and member of the flea market staff, and was named 2005 Firefighter of the Year.

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SPONSORED BY Eagle River Center

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Nelson’s Eagle River

ST. GERMAIN Oct. 12, 2011

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Page 29

St. Germain acquires thermal imager, pair of new Husqvarna rescue saws ___________

BY ANTHONY DREW NEWS-REVIEW ASST. EDITOR

___________

The St. Germain Fire Department updated its 15-year-old imaging camera with a new model this year, and added two new Husqvarna Partner K 970 Rescue Cutter Saws to its list of equipment. The new thermal-imaging camera, which cost $11,000, was funded through fundraisers like the summer flea markets and the department’s annual fish fry, according to Capt. Adam Ruenger. “It replaced an aging 15-year-old unit,” he said. “It scans a lot better and a lot quicker. We can even use it out in the snow for search and rescue, if someone’s missing. It also performs a lot better in a fire.” In the snow, the imager would display any body heat in the area with a red glow on the display. At a fire, the department also can use the thermal camera to detect dangerous hot spots. In addition to the new imager, St. Germain took delivery of two rescue saws. The new cutter saws cost about $1,300 apiece and also were paid for through fundraising events. Community organizations and businesses also make contributions to help the department obtain equipment. The Partner K 970s will allow the department to cut through any obstacles between firefighters and the people who need their help in emergency situations, according to Ruenger, who said the new saws can cut through just about anything. “They’ll cut through wood, concrete, metal siding, roof ventilation, pretty much anything you want,” he said. “The saws will cut a lot quicker than the 30- or 40-year-old Stihl, which was starting to lack in compression and was slowing down.” Starting up the new saws should prove easier too, as they feature an EasyStart system that reduces compression in the cylinder during starts. In late 2009, the department updated its fire-fighting capabilities with the purchase of a new Pierce Ultimate Configuration (PUC) engine/pumper truck. The $585,000 engine known as the PUC truck features a 1,500-gallonsper-minute pump and a compressedair foam system. The 34-foot truck was purchased for the department by the town of St. Germain and can hold

With the St. Germain Fire Department’s new Husqvarna Partner K-970 rescue saws are volunteer firefighters, from

up to 1,000 gallons of water. It also features a 23-foot-tall light tower. The truck is used for a wide range of emergency incidents, including car accidents, structure fires and rescues. It’s designed so fewer firefighters need to be present in order to fully operate the truck. Two years ago, the department used $85,000 of its own fundraising money to purchase a 1990 refurbished ladder truck from a department in Mokena, Ill. . The five-passenger truck features a 50-foot Telesquirt and a 650-gallon tank. In 2008, the department upgraded equipment with the purchase of a John Deere Gator. The four-wheel allterrain vehicle is used for off-road rescue, off-road wildland fire suppression and for summer flea market setup. A “med bed” was added to the vehicle to assist in rescue efforts in

left, Troy Schalinske and Adam Ruenger. The saws will improve rescue efficiency. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

forest areas. The Gator includes a pump and tank that holds approximately 50 gallons of water to assist in wildland fire-fighting. The pump can be removed to make room for the med bed. The Gator also includes a defibrillator and two First Responder bags,which are also located in the department’s rescue boat and snowmobile. Four years ago, St. Germain added 19 new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units and turbo flares that are used to mark helicopter landing zones in the event of emergencies that require a Flight For Life rescue. The new SCBAs make the firefighters’ gear lighter, giving them extra maneuverability. Other equipment To help ensure safety, the depart-

ment has an Incident Command System (ICS) board which, according to Fire Chief Timothy Clark, is an accountability system to make sure that nobody gets left behind when battling a blaze. The department also has four defibrillator units. Approximately 90% of the department’s personnel are trained in the use of the life-saving defibrillation equipment. The St. Germain Fire Department also has a Jaws of Life unit, which greatly improves the department’s ability to assist during automobile rescue operations. Obtained exclusively with fundraiser money, the JAWS unit was purchased along with a 2004 Ski-Doo wide-track snowmobile. The transport allows firefighters to gain To ST. GERMAIN, Pg. 31

ST. GERMAIN Page 30

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Thomas B. Stoltman Thomas has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 9 years. He currently holds the rank of engineer. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by VISO. As a state-certified Firefighter I, Thomas has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700 and weapons of mass destruction and a member of the rapid intervention team.

Glenn Svetnicka Glenn has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 8 years. He currently holds the rank of fire prevention officer. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Moon Beach Camp. As a firefighter, Glenn has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, weapons of mass destruction, and First Responder. He has extrication training.

SPONSORED BY

Thomas Ebert Thomas has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire and Rescue Department for 31 years. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Reinhart Food Service. As a certified firefighter, Thomas has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, basic life support, Crash Injury Management, ventilation school and basic incident command school. Other courses include Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, and weapons of mass destruction. He has had extrication training, and is a First Responder on the rescue squad. He was the 1981 Firefighter of the Year for the St. Germain Fire Department.

SPONSORED BY

A part of BMO Financial Group Eagle River, St. Germain, Three Lakes

Randy Thyssen Randy has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire and Rescue Department for 31 years. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Camp’s SuperValu. As a state-certified firefighter, Randy has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, arson investigation, hazardous materials, ventilation school, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700 and weapons of mass destruction.

(715) 479-8191

Our Gratitude

to all North Woods volunteer firefighters

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4895 Hwy. 70W Eagle River

Randy Goodrum Randy has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 30 years. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by White Birch Village and Sno-Eagles Inc. As a state-certified firefighter, Randy has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, weapons of mass destruction, emergency medical care First Responder, hazardous materials, pesticides, Air Pack field maintenance, fire and arson investigation, LP gas burn, Learning thru Burning, ventilation school and basic incident command school. He has extrication training and is an emergency vehicle driving instructor. He was Firefighter of the Year in 1987, and is chairman of the fire department’s fundraiser flea market.

SPONSORED BY

PAUL’s RENT-ALL

186 Hwy. 70, P.O. Box 598, St. Germain, WI 54558 715-479-5841

Walter Camp

Gary Vendl Gary has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 21 years. He is a resident of St. Germain and is the owner of Lakeland Lawn & Equipment. As a state-certified Firefighter I, Gary has completed courses in Firefighter I, First Responder, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700 and weapons of mass destruction.

Walt has been a volunteer firefighter/First Responder for the St. Germain Fire Department for 24 years. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Meyer & Associates Insurance Agency. As a firefighter, Walt has completed courses in Firefighter I, Pumps and Pumping, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, and weapons of mass destruction. He has extrication training and is a First Responder.

Lynnette Widner Lynnette has been a firefighter for 20 years. She has been a First Responder for St. Germain Rescue for 20 years. She is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Howard Young Medical Center. Lynnette has completed courses in Firefighter I, Mod 1 and 2, First Responder, defibcertified, CPR, BLS, hazardous materials, advanced pumps and pumping, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, defensive driving, landing zone safety, cold-water rescue, LP gas burn, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, weapons of mass destruction and has completed EMT-Basic training. She assists with the Fire Safety program in St. Germain.

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ASSOCIATES

AGENCY, INC.

Eagle River, Land O’ Lakes, St. Germain

St. Germain

Minocqua

Highway 70 St. Germain 715-479-4930

ST. GERMAIN Oct. 12, 2011

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Page 31

St. Germain FROM PAGE 29

accessibility to snowmobile and other related accidents on the trails. Department of Natural Resources grants have allowed the department to purchase wildland fire equipment, including a 13/4-inch hose, leather boots, goggles, hand tools and a portable pump for the brush truck, as well as pagers and radios. In previous years, the fire department purchased 30 sets of wildland fire-fighting jumpsuits, which are lightweight and keep the wearer cooler in flaming environments. Some of the other main equipment servicing the department includes a 1995 Pierce rescue/pumper with a 1,250-gallons-per-minute pump, a 1,000-gallon booster tank and 7.5-kilowatt diesel-powered generator, a 3,000-gallon Marion tanker capable of dumping its entire 3,000 gallons of water out of either side or the rear in just over a minute and a 2002 four-door, four-wheel drive Chevrolet. The Chevrolet is used as a personnel carrier, for hauling hoses back from a fire or for driving to schools for drills and fire inspections. It also can be used as a tow vehicle for the department’s boat, snowmobile or Gator. The truck is fully equipped for rescue calls. The department also owns a 1985 Ford/Saulsbury 18-foot heavy-rescue vehicle, which is used in transporting rescue and extrication equipment and basic haz-mat supplies. The heavy-rescue vehicle also is rigged with a 4,500-pounds-persquare-inch Cascade system, with a two-bottle protected fill station. It allows for the filling of air bottles at incident scenes. A community department In 1999, the department moved into its current fire station location on Highway 155, built at a cost of $625,000. The station allows for at least 3 feet of space between each truck, compared to only 1 foot in the old building. The department’s Fire Prevention Bureau is a very active part of dayto-day operations. Fire inspections are conducted twice a year by Phil Kohout for all commercial buildings within the department’s protection area. Also very active is the Public Education Division, headed by Glenn Svetnicka, which presents programs for children in day-care centers and elementary school classrooms in addition to programs for all ages. Inspections of private residences are done by request. Residents who would like these services can contact

With St. Germain’s new thermal-imaging camera are volunteer firefighters, from left, Lynnette Widner, Nathan Geb-

either Phil or Judy Kohout. St. Germain residents save approximately 20% to 35% on their homeowner’s insurance policies because of steps taken by the department over a number of years to achieve a Class 8 rating. To achieve the Class 8 rating, St. Germain had to put dry hydrants in the town and the fire department also had to be able to spray water from its pumper at a rate of 250 gallons per minute. The department also offers a Junior Firefighter program. The junior firefighters do informal, on-site training with department members and participate in firefighter training classes. Messages on fire dangers and other public safety concerns can be posted on a sign at the front of the station. In addition to maintaining the inventory of fire equipment to meet a variety of emergency situations, department personnel are trained in National Incident Management Systems (NIMS). This mandatory statewide program qualifies the department for Federal Emergency Management Agency grants. In addition to NIMS, all members also have received training in ICS 100 and 200 and attended sessions on weapons of mass destruction.

hardt and Randy Goodrum. The camera will detect hot spots better than the older model. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

St. Germain Fire Department Fire Chief Timothy Clark displays a helmet and turnout gear, all designed for the safety of the firefighters. --Photo By Sonia Dionne

ST. GERMAIN Page 32

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Louise Clark Lou is a volunteer firefighter and First Responder for the St. Germain Fire Department. She has been a volunteer for 14 years. She is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by the Northland Pines School District. As a certified firefighter, Lou has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, and weapons of mass destruction. She has extrication training and is a member of the rapid intervention team. Other courses include CPR, EMT Basic, blood-borne pathogens, eye emergencies, pediatric emergencies, decision-making in the field, Basic IC, farm rescue operations, confined space rescue, high-level rescue, DNR wildland fire training, and aircraft crash and rescue. She was a nationally registered EMT for 15 years, with defib, EPI and combi-tube certification. Lou had 10 years of experience in fire and EMS service with the Mosinee Fire District.

SPONSORED BY

Phil Kohout Phil has been a volunteer firefighter and First Responder for the St. Germain Fire Department for 10 years. He is a resident of St. Germain. As a firefighter, Phil is a fire inspector, and is certified in CPR and as a First Responder. He had courses in Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700 and weapons of mass destruction. He is a member of the flea market staff.

SPONSORED BY

James R. Barnekow Jr. James is a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 6 years. He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Pitlik & Wick Inc. James has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, and weapons of mass destruction. He has extrication training and is a member of the rapid intervention team.

SPONSORED BY

Eagle River, St. Germain, Phelps & Three Lakes

Eagle River, Rhinelander, Minocqua & Wausau

Mike Van Meter

Minocqua

Jessica Stoltman Jessica has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire and Rescue Department for 5 years.

Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire and Rescue for 6 years. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed by the town of St. Germain. As a firefighter, Mike has become certified in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, extrication training, RIT team, and has completed the courses in extrication, pumps and pumping, RIT team Incident Command System 100 and 200, National Incident Management System 700, and weapons of mass destruction. He is a member of RIT.

She is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Howard Young Dialysis.

SPONSORED BY

BOULDER JUNCTION 715-385-2300

St. Germain

EVERYDAY HEROES

ST. GERMAIN 715-479-5930

Cherie Keen

As a firefighter, Jessica has completed courses in Firefighter 1 and II, First Responder, EMT-Basic, CPR and haz-mat training.

SPONSORED BY

In Lac du Flambeau on Hwy. 47

Jesse Chuckel

Jim Wendt

Cherie has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire and Rescue Department for 5 years.

Jesse has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 5 years.

Jim has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 4 years.

She is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Drs. Foster & Smith.

He is employed by Holophane Lighting.

He is a resident of St. Germain and is self-employed.

As a firefighter, Cherie has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, CPR and is a First Responder.

As a state-certified firefighter, Jesse has completed courses in wilderness First Responder and cold water rescue.

SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY Internet â&#x20AC;˘ Telephone â&#x20AC;˘ Television 118 Spruce St., Eagle River, WI 54521 (715) 480-4800

As a firefighter, Jim has completed courses in Firefighter I and II.

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VILAS COUNTY

NEWS-REVIEW Eagle River

ST. GERMAIN PHARMACY Hwy. 70, St. Germain 715-479-7608

ST. GERMAIN Oct. 12, 2011

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Page 33

Top 10 home fire safety tips offered U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 373,900 home structure fires from 2005-’09, according to research from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). According to the report, cooking fires remain the leading cause of home structure fires and home fire injuries, and smoking materials continue to be the leading cause of home fire deaths. Fire safety tips The top 10 home fire safety tips from the NFPA include: Watch your cooking — Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you must leave, even for a short time, turn off

the stove. Give space heaters space — Keep fixed and portable space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn. Turn off heaters when you leave the room or go to sleep. Smoke outside — Ask smokers to smoke outside. Have sturdy, deep ashtrays for smokers. Keep matches, lighters safe — Keep matches and lighters up high, out of the reach of children, preferably in a cabinet with a child lock. Inspect electrical cords — Replace cords that are cracked, damaged, have broken plugs, or have loose connections. Be careful with candles — Keep candles at least 1 foot from anything

William Neider

that can burn. Blow out candles when you leave the room or go to sleep. Have a home fire escape plan — Make a home fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year. Install smoke alarms — Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. Interconnect smoke alarms throughout the home. When one sounds, they all sound. Test smoke alarms — Test smoke alarms at least once a month and replace conventional batteries once a year or when the alarm “chirps” to tell you the battery is low. Replace any smoke alarm that is more than 10 years old. Install sprinklers — If you are

Brian Repenshek

building or remodeling your home, install residential fire sprinklers. Sprinklers can contain and may even extinguish a fire in less time than it would take the fire department to arrive. The NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building and life safety, according to fire safety officials. The mission of the international nonprofit organization — founded in 1896 — is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training and education. For more information on fire safety tips for homeowners or to view the home structure fire report, view the NFPA’s website at nfpa.org.

Mike Boyd

William has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 4 years.

Brian has been a volunteer firefighter/First Responder for the St. Germain Fire Department for 4 years.

Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 4 years.

He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by the St. Germain Chamber of Commerce.

He is a resident of Sayner and is employed by Futurewood Corp.

He is a resident of Sayner and is employed by Mike Boyd LLC.

As a firefighter, Brian has had wildfire training for forest fires.

As a firefighter, Mike has completed preliminary training programs on-site at the fire department.

William is a certified Firefighter I, II and III.

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SPONSORED BY Eagle River Center

Jacob Gebhardt

Nathan Gebhardt

www .wisconsinpublicservice.com

Kevin Harvey

Jacob has been a volunteer firefighter/First Responder for the St. Germain Fire Department for 4 years.

Nathan has been a volunteer Junior Firefighter for the St. Germain Fire Department for 4 years.

Kevin has been a volunteer firefighter for the St. Germain Fire and Rescue Department for 2 years.

He is a resident of St. Germain.

He is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Woodland Auto Car Repair.

He is a resident of St. Germain and is self-employed. As a firefighter, Kevin has completed courses in entrylevel 1 and 2.

As a firefighter, Jacob has completed courses in entry-level 1 and 2, and RIT training.

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Signe E. Baake

James Baake

Signe has been a volunteer EMT for the Land O’ Lakes Ambulance Service and a volunteer firefighter for 36 years. She currently holds the rank of EMT-Supervisor. She is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by Ministry Medical Transport-Spirit. As an EMT, Signe has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, terrorism awareness, haz-mat tech, LP gas burn, advanced driving class, PEPP class, weather spotting, cold-water drowning, basic trauma life support, PALS class, wildland fire training, driver and operator training, vehicle extrication, aviation emergency, officer strategies and tactics, pump operator and OSHA instructor. Signe has completed NREMT Paramedic. She is an ambulance supervisor, a CPR instructor, is a Wisconsin Paramedic and nationally registered EMT-Paramedic, is a Michigan-certified EMT-Basic and Wisconsin EMT, an EMT-Basic instructor, and PHTLS and ACLS certified, ice rescue and NRP. Signe is the deputy coroner for Vilas County.

James has been a volunteer EMT for the Land O’ Lakes Ambulance Service for 25 years. He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is retired. As an EMT, James has completed EMT-Basic training, Firefighter I, courses in terrorism awareness, haz-mat tech, weather spotting, advanced driving, basic trauma life support and DOT vehicle extrication technician, PALS class, wildland fire training, vehicle extrication, aviation emergency, driver and operator training, is on the National Registry of EMTs, is a Michigan-certified EMT-Basic and a Wis. EMT-Basic. He has completed classes in Medicare billing and Wis. DOT accident prevention.

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Mary Ellen Otterpohl Mary Ellen has been a volunteer EMT for the Land O’ Lakes Ambulance Service for 25 years. She currently holds the rank of training officer. She is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by Headwaters State Bank. As an EMT-I, Mary Ellen has completed courses in EMT-Intermediate, CPR, advanced driving, CPR refresher, EVOC, driver and operator training and wildland fire training. She has completed courses is Firefighter I, terrorism awareness, haz-mat tech, vehicle extrication, aviation emergency, is on the National Registry of EMTs, is a Michigan-certified basic EMT, a Wisconsin EMT IV tech. Mary Ellen is certified in PHTLS, ice rescue, solo wilderness rescue and PEPP.

Carol Justice Carol has been a volunteer firefighter for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department for 20 years. She is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by Rennes Group in Phelps. As a certified Firefighter I, Carol has completed courses in terrorism awareness, strategies and tactics I and II, hazardous materials, NIMs, FEMA, and has had driver and operator training.

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Bruce Garrison Bruce has been a volunteer firefighter for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department for 18 years. He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is self-employed. As a firefighter, Bruce has completed courses in Firefighter I, First Responder, vehicle extrication, aviation emergency, wildland fires, RIT training, confined space rescue and driver operator training.

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VILAS COUNTY

NEWS-REVIEW Eagle River

Eagle River

LAND O’ LAKES Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Land O’ Lakes Assistant Fire Chief Bradley Knaack stands next to the department’s new four-wheel drive pumper/tanker. The 2005 truck is smaller than most

Page 41

traditional pumper/tankers and will be able to get down narrow roads and driveways common in a rural setting. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Land O’ Lakes takes delivery of new pumper EMS department also equips rescue truck ___________

BY GARY RIDDERBUSCH NEWS-REVIEW EDITOR

___________

The Land O’ Lakes Fire Department took delivery of a new pumper/tanker in September of 2011 — a vehicle designed to handle a variety of emergencies. The 2005 pumper was purchased from the town of Manhattan in Nye County, Nev., for $185,000, according to Land O’ Lakes Fire Chief Sam Otterpohl. “The Pierce pumper was actually built in Appleton, so it is coming home, of sorts,” said Otterpohl. “The truck only has 3,600 miles on it, so it is like new.” Otterpohl said the department traded in a 1996 rescue truck and re-

ceived $40,000 for the trade-in. He said tax dollars and department fund-raising will pay for the truck. Headwaters State Bank provided a short-term loan to allow the truck to be purchased at this time. Assistant Fire Chief Bradley Knaack said the Kenworth diesel four-wheel drive truck features a 1,700-gallon tank and a 1,000-gallons-per-minute (gpm) pump. It also carries 30 gallons of foam. “Because the truck is four-wheel drive and smaller than most pumpers, we will be able to get it in tighter locations,” said Knaack. “We also can use it to respond to vehicle accidents in the winter.” The truck has plenty of storage room for vehicle extrication equipment, including JAWS, jacks and hy-

draulic tools need in a vehicle accident. It also carries a 3,800-watt Honda generator. Knaack said the truck will be available for fighting both structure and wildland fires. Lighting on the truck can illuminate an accident scene. “It has 600 feet of LDH hose, 100foot hose reel and 300 feet of 13/4-inch preconnected hose,” said Knaack. Knaack said if the department builds a second station in the future to the west on Highway B, the truck could be the main pumper at that location. He said the new pumper/tanker replaced a 30-yearold 1981 pumper. EMS truck completed The department also put the fin-

ishing touches on a Ford F-350 extended cab pick-up truck purchased in January of 2010, including installing emergency light bars on top of the cab and reflective tape on all sides of the vehicle. The four-wheel drive truck is used to pull the department’s rescue boat, six-wheeler or snowmobile to emergency situations. The truck also can be used to get down trails or on icecovered lakes for rescues. Items on the truck include a scoop stretcher and Stokes basket, along with four Mustang suits for ice or cold-water rescue. “The rescue truck replaced a 1986 Chevrolet Blazer that we originally got from K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base,” To LAND O’ LAKES, Pg. 43

LAND O’ LAKES Page 42

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Andrew Dorn

Andrew R. Adams Andrew has been a volunteer firefighter for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department for 5 years.

Andrew has been a volunteer firefighter for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department and an EMT-B for the Land O’ Lakes Ambulance Service for 11 years. He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by Northwoods Tire. Andrew is a state-certified Firefighter I, First Responder and an EMT-B, and has completed courses in terrorism awareness, haz-mat tech, PEPP, EVOC, water rescue and ice rescue. He is certified in CPR and vehicle extrication.

He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes, and is employed by Bear Trap Inn. As a firefighter, Andrew has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, RIT training, confined space rescue, basic fire safety, small engines, vehicle extrication and aviation emergency.

Wes Setzer Wes has been a volunteer firefighter for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department for 5 years. He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by Black Oak Lake Association. As a firefighter, Wes has completed training courses in Firefighter I and II, RIT training, EVOC, wildland fire and confined space rescue, vehicle extrication, aviation emergency, and is state certified in haz-mat operations and CPR.

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NEWS-REVIEW Eagle River

Nelson’s Eagle River

Brian Achuff

1. Keep items like dishtowels, bags and curtains at least three feet away from your kitchen stove. 2. Store all matches and lighters in a cabinet that is locked or safely out of reach from children.

Brian has been a firefighter for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department for 4 years. He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by Lakeshore Home & Yard Care. As a firefighter, Brian has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, wildland fire, SCBA confined space, vehicle extrication, aviation emergency, is a member of the Rapid Intervention Team and is state certified in hazmat operations and CPR.

3. Have chimneys, fireplaces, wood or coal stoves and central furnaces inspected once a year. 4. Never leave burning candles unattended, and blow out candles when adults leave a room. 5. Keep portable heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn, and turn them off when unattended. 6. Don’t overload extension cords or run them underneath rugs. Replace cords that are cracked or frayed. 7. Create a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room, and practice it as a family.

Eagle River

Dan Balog Dan has been a volunteer firefighter for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department for 4 years. He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by the town of Land O’ Lakes. As a firefighter, Dan has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, haz-mat, engine training, engine and transmission repair, vehicle extrication and aviation emergency. He retired from the fire department of Calumet City, Ill., after 25 years.

8. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside each bedroom, and test them monthly.

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9. In the event of a fire, crawl low if you must exit through smoke. Stop, drop and roll if clothes catch fire.

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Chris Brownell Chris has been a volunteer firefighter for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department for 3 years. He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by Walmart. As a firefighter, Chris has completed courses in basic life support and haz-mat awareness, vehicle extrication, aviation emergency, and is an IV-Tech certified as an EMT in Wisconsin and Michigan.

Dennis “Mac” McCarthy Mac has been a volunteer firefighter and maintenance director for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department for 2 years. He is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is retired. As a firefighter, Mac has completed courses in Firefighter I, vehicle extrication, CPR and has had maintenance training.

Jean Haack Jean has been a volunteer EMT for the Land O’ Lakes Ambulance Service for 2 years. She is a resident of Land O’ Lakes and is employed by Conserve School. As an EMT, Jean has completed courses in Basic EMT, water rescue, vehicle extrication and is certified in CPR.

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LAND O’ LAKES Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Page 43

Land O’ Lakes FROM PAGE 41

said Otterpohl. “The new truck was purchased through the town budget for about $26,000.” Land O’ Lakes emergency medical services is currently raising funds to replace its 2005 ambulance. Signe Baake, emergency medical technician (EMT) supervisor, said the department is hoping to replace the ambulance in two years. Station generator In 2010, the department installed a 30-kilowatt generator at the fire station that kicks in automatically when the power goes out. “In the event that the power goes out in Land O’ Lakes, we have power at the fire station with this generator,” said Otterpohl. “We also have a radio base station here in the event something would happen at the dispatch center in Eagle River. With the generator and a base station, we can still communicate with rescue personnel in an emergency.” The generator cost the department $15,000, plus installation, but the equipment was funded through the capital outlay fund for the fire station. The department also purchased an Argus HR 320 thermal-imaging camera in 2010. The $11,000 purchase was made thanks to a private donation. “The camera helps firefighters find hot spots in the walls of a burning building,” said Otterpohl. Other trucks The department purchased a Ford F-350 brush truck for $31,000 in 2008. In 2009, firefighters added a wildfire skid unit to the vehicle and, in 2010, the American Legion in Land O’ Lakes donated money for a custom tool rack for the brush truck. “We use the truck for wildland fires and fires in other hard-to-get-to places,” he said. “The rack allows us to haul extra tools for wildland fires.” The four-wheel drive vehicle was originally delivered with a heavyduty front bumper and winch, heavyduty trailer hitch on the rear, emergency lights and reflective striping. “We added the wildfire skid unit that includes a 250-gallon water tank, 10-gallon foam tank, 500-gpm pump and a 100-foot hose reel, to the rear box,” said Otterpohl. “The pump also can be used for filling tankers.” Otterpohl said the skid unit cost $11,500. He said Conserve School donated one-half of the funds and the other one-half came out of the department’s budget.

Land O’ Lakes EMS put the finishing touches on this 2009 Ford F-350 extended-cab rescue truck last year, including high-visibility reflective tape and an emergency light pack-

The rig also carries wildland firefighting equipment, including chain saws, portable water packs, shovels, picks and axes. “We didn’t have a brush truck, so this was needed due to our heavily wooded area,” said Otterpohl. The Land O’ Lakes Fire Department purchased a $280,000 Pierce pumper/engine in 2007, financed with the help of a state grant and a loan from the town of Land O’ Lakes. The engine features a 1,250-gpm pump, a 1,000-gallon water tank, and a compressed air and foam system. In 2005, the Land O’ Lakes department improved its hazardous materials response capabilities with a new response trailer. The truck carries haz-mat cleanup materials, gear, level A and level B suits and other equipment. Other trucks in the department’s fleet include a tanker and Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) truck, which is used to transport the Land O’ Lakes RIT to fires across the area. Training continues Training is always a priority for the Land O’ Lakes Fire Department. In 2010, fire department personnel were trained in vehicle extrication and handling airport emergencies. The training was held through Nicolet Area Technical College. “Firefighters from Land O’ Lakes, Phelps, Conover and Eagle River learned about handling airport

age. EMTs posing with rescue equipment for the truck include, from left, James Bakke, Jean Haack, Signe Bakke and Mary Ellen Otterpohl. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

emergencies, including dealing with airplane fuels,” said Otterpohl. Several department personnel took RIT training in 2009 and are now members of the East Side RIT. They are trained to locate and rescue injured or trapped firefighters. Otterpohl said Land O’ Lakes also teamed up with Conover to prepare a Community Wildfire Protection Plan. “The plan will help us prepare for wildfires as well as help us get Department of Natural Resources grants,” he said. The plan includes maps for highrisk areas for wildfires, highly flammable areas, land uses and evacuation routes. “We are always looking for new firefighters and EMTs,” said Otterpohl. Special equipment Land O’ Lakes is the home of the only fire boat in Vilas County. The 25-foot pontoon is docked at Cisco Chain Marina and serves the Cisco Chain area, which encompasses Land O’ Lakes and Watersmeet, Mich. The fire boat is a necessary commodity in the area due to the number of summer residences located on numerous islands throughout the Cisco Chain. Response time to an island fire is three times quicker by boat to certain lakeside locations. It may take 30 minutes by road to go around a lake, but the fire boat could reach

the same location within five minutes, according to Otterpohl. The Land O’ Lakes Fire Department also has an inflatable boat and a Rescue Alive flotation device. The inflatable boat was purchased as a budget item from the town of Land O’ Lakes. It is used for getting onto private lakes, as well as lakes that have no boat landing. “It helps the response time because we can throw the boat in at any location,” said Otterpohl. “Wherever the 911 comes from, we can slide the boat in the water without going to a boat landing.” The Rescue Alive was purchased with money from the residents of Land O’ Lakes. It is used for ice and cold-water rescues. Many of the department members have taken the ice-rescue course. Land O’ Lakes also has a Polaris six-wheel all-terrain vehicle (ATV), used primarily for trail rescues. The ATV was purchased by the EMS department with the assistance of donations and fundraisers. It features a rear box, which was modified to haul a stretcher. The Land O’ Lakes Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad moved to its present location along Highway B in 1991. The fire station features four double bays with rear doors and was funded by the town. The 100- by 60-foot building includes room for eight vehicles, two offices, an EMT training room, a meeting room and a kitchen.

CONOVER Page 44

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Gary R. Vold Gary has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 26 years. He currently holds the rank of chief. He is a resident of Conover and is the co-owner of Northern Carpets. As a state-certified firefighter, Gary has completed courses in Firefighter I, officers’ training, wildland fire suppression, tactics and strategies, foam types and uses, extrication, fire investigations, helicopter landing zone (LZ) training, and is trained in CPR-DFib.

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Randy E. Barnes Randy has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 23 years. He currently holds the rank of 1st assistant chief. He is a resident of Conover and is self-employed. As a state-certified firefighter, Randy has completed courses in Firefighter I — tankers, instructional techniques for company officers, firefighter safety, health & survival, positive pressure ventilation, Firefighter II — pumps & pumping, fire investigation, fire investigationarson, advanced fire investigation, water rescue, ice-water rescue, fire prevention inspections, CPR, wildland fires, medical transport L-Z, LZ training and weapons of mass destruction training. He is a fire inspector, a certified tank inspector ILHR10, and contract inspector for ILHR 10, state of Wisconsin for 21 years.

Robert has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 20 years. He currently holds the rank of 1st captain. He is a resident of Conover and is self-employed. As a state-certified firefighter, Robert has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, water rescue, wildland fires, fire investigation, foam types/ uses, LP burns, weapons of mass destruction, incident command, LZ training, CPRD, and is a member of the Interior Attack Team.

Jeff has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 15 years. He currently holds the rank of 2nd assistant chief. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by J&J Excavating & Landscaping. As a firefighter, Jeff has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, water rescue, vehicle extrication, CPR-D, fire investigation, LP burns, weapons of mass destruction, wildfire training and incident command of wildland fires, foam I and II, defibrillator training, officers’ training and LZ training.

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Richard Martinson Richard has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 15 years. He currently holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by the town of Conover. As a firefighter, Richard has completed courses in entry-level Firefighter I and II, weapons of mass destruction, wildland fires, basic fire investigation, Wis. DNR wildfire, vehicle extrication, CPR-D, LP burns, LZ training, and basic concepts of emergency response to terrorism. Richard is a member of Wis. Chapter 23 International Association of Arson Investigators Inc. He is certified in CPR and is a training officer.

Eagle River

Steve Vold Steve has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 15 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Northern Carpets. As a firefighter, Steve has completed courses in Firefighter I, mod 1 and 2, wildland fire, foam types and uses, pumper operations – extrication, fire investigation, LZ training, and is trained in CPR-D-Fib. Steve is an East Side RIT member.

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John H. Barnekow

Todd Vreeland

Shirley Jesse

John has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 10 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by the town of Conover. As a firefighter, John has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, water rescue, CPR-D, wildland firefighting, LP burns, foam types/uses, fire investigation, weapons of mass destruction training LZ training, vehicle extrication, and is a member of the Interior Attack Team.

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Todd has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 10 years. He currently holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of Eagle River and is employed by Boone’s Building Supply. As a firefighter, Todd has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, water rescue, is certified in ice rescue, CPR-D, wildland firefighting, LP burns, foam types & uses, fire investigation, LZ training, is a member of the Interior Attack Team and also of the East Side RIT.

Shirley has been a volunteer for the Conover Ambulance for 15 years. She holds the rank of EMT-IV Tech/DE. Shirley has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 12 years. She currently holds the rank of fire department secretary. She is a resident of Conover and has been employed for 13 years by Eagle River Memorial Hospital as an EMT-I/CNA. Shirley has had training in water rescue, haz-mat, snowmobile and cold-water rescue, weapons of mass destruction, wildland firefighting, vehicle extrication, foam types & uses, fire investigation, and has completed courses in Firefighter I and II. She also is trained in advanced airway management, ACLS, PALS, PHTLS and has had LZ training. She is a CPR instructor for the fire department through Nicolet College, is a Michigan-certified EMT and a Wisconsin and Michigan IV tech. Shirley is a CPR instructor for Ministry Health Care.

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CONOVER Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

The Conover Fire Department purchased new packs for its Rapid Intervention team this year. Presenting the new packs, which include air tanks and self-con-

Page 45

tained breathing apparatus, were firefighters, from left, Karl Boehm, Steven Vold, Dave Larson and John Burczyk. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Conover buys imaging camera, RIT packs ___________

BY ANTHONY DREW NEWS-REVIEW ASST. EDITOR

___________

The Conover Fire Department purchased a new imaging camera in 2011, along with four Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) packs. The imaging camera, which helps the department detect hot spots, is an upgrade from a previous model, according to Fire Chief Gary Vold. “It’s a much better unit, which scans a much bigger area,” he said. “When we go into a building, if we have to go into a scene that’s full of smoke, we aren’t looking at such a small area. We’re now looking at the whole room.” The larger unit cost a little more than $17,000, said Vold, which the department was able to save through

its annual fundraising events. In addition to the camera, the Conover Fire Department bought four new packs for its RIT. The packs include air tanks and self-contained breathing apparatuses. “There are new backpacks, and they all have the individual face masks now,” said Vold. “They’re in specialty trucks just for the Rapid Intervention Team, the new teams set up in Vilas County.” In 2010, the department concentrated on recruiting new firefighters, according to Vold. Conover signed seven new members that year, bringing the department to its maximum of 30 firefighters, a limit established by the town board. “We like to keep our department roster at 30 firefighters and we had a couple retire in 2009,” said Vold. “But

we don’t have a problem recruiting firefighters in Conover.” The firefighters train in a new 30by 80-foot addition to the fire station constructed in 2009, thanks to a memorial donation from a local resident, according to Vold. The construction of the $150,000 building began Oct. 1, 2008, and the building was dedicated Sept. 20, 2009, with a community open house. The department received a $140,000 gift to fund the project from Anita Soquist, a Conover area resident who died June 15, 2005. The department funded the additional $10,000 for the project. Soquist taught first and second grades at Land O’ Lakes Elementary School for 42 years. The building, located behind the current fire station along Highway K East, is called the

Anita Soquist Ambulance Facility. “The new building includes a classroom, offices for emergency medical services (EMS) and the fire department, two rest rooms, a small kitchen area and two drive-through bays for the EMS vehicles,” said Vold. “The new garage is currently housing the ambulance and the fire department’s Suburban.” The addition frees up much-needed space in the fire station, built in 1998. Vold said the department is looking at replacing its 1978 brush truck in the future. The truck, used for hard-to-reach locations, is the department’s oldest truck. “We carry shovels, rakes, a pump and 250-gallon water tank on the To CONOVER, Pg. 47

CONOVER Page 46

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Ron Jesse Jr. Ron has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 12 years. He currently holds the rank of maintenance officer. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Days Inn of Eagle River. As a firefigher, Ron has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, wildland fires, CPR-D, foam types/uses, weapons of mass destruction, cold-water rescue, wildland firefighting, fire investigation, water rescue, vehicle extrication, LZ training, hybrid electrical vehicle training and RIT training. He is a certified driver/operator for the pumper truck.

Jim Bert Jim has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 12 years. He currently holds the rank of safety officer/fire code inspector. He is a resident of Conover and is retired. As a firefighter, Jim has completed courses in Firefighter I, CPR, weapons of mass destruction, wildland fires and LZ training. Jim is also the grants coordinator.

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Roger Jensen Roger has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 27 years and is an honorary firefighter. He is a resident of Conover and is the owner of Jensen Hardware and Appliance. As a state-certified firefighter, Roger has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, LP burns, wildland fires and CPR.

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Eagle River

Chad Lederer Chad has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 15 years. He is a resident of Conover and owns Wildcat Waterproofing and Masonry. As a state-certified firefighter, Chad has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, wildland fires, foams and operation, pumper operation, CPR-D, LP burns, weapons of mass destruction, LZ training, is a member of the Interior Attack Team, and a member of the East Side RIT.

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David Larson David has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 27 years. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Larson Concrete Products. As a state-certified firefighter, David has completed courses in Firefighter I special and Firefighter II, water rescue, ice-water rescue, CPR, LP training, LZ training, wildland fires, vehicle extrication, haz-mat, pumper driving class, ladder training and Learning thru Burning. David is a member of the RIT.

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Gordon Hogenmiller Gordon has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 14 years. He is a resident of Conover and is self-employed. As a firefighter, Gordon has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, water rescue, wildland fires, CPR-D and RIT training.

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John R. Burczyk John has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 27 years and is an honorary firefighter. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by the U.S. Postal Service at the Conover post office. As a state-certified firefighter, John has completed courses in Firefighter I, special fire officers’ training, wildland fires, CPR First Responder’s course, and has taken many classes through Nicolet College. John served as the Conover fire chief from 1984 through 1998.

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Karl W. Boehm Karl has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 23 years. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Buckatabon Lodge and the town of Conover. As a state-certified firefighter, Karl has completed the Firefighter I, mod 1 course, given through Nicolet College, tactics, officers’ training, wildland fires courses, CPR-D, weapons of mass destruction and LZ training.

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Eagle River

Gary Lagueux Jr. Gary has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 10 years. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Lagueux Builders. As a firefighter, Gary has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, water rescue, LP burns, foam types & uses, fire investigation, CPR-D, wildland firefighting, weapons of mass destruction, terrorism and haz-mat. He is a member of the Interior Attack Team and a demolition combat engineer in the U.S. Army Reserve.

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CONOVER Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Conover

Community-minded Besides responding to about 50 fire calls each year, the fire department has contributed to the community in other ways. “Through our fundraisers, we were able to donate new playground equipment for the town park in 2005,” said Vold. In 2003, many of the firefighters volunteered to build a concession stand at the soccer fields in the town park. “The material was purchased by the town and the labor was 100% donated by the firefighters,” said Vold. Firefighter Robert W. Martinson Jr., a self-employed carpenter, led the construction project. The building serves two soccer fields and a ball field. “In addition, community events, such as the car show, are held on the grounds and make use of the facility,” said Vold. “It’s just something the firefighters wanted to do for the community,” said Vold. Vold said the department gets strong support from area taxpayers, as well as donations from individuals and civic organizations. The department’s major fundraiser is a pancake breakfast and car show held each July. The department holds an annual Ice Fishing Jamboree on Pioneer Lake. To preregister for the tournament, people can call firefighter Todd Vreeland at (715) 891-2251. For more information about the Conover Fire Department or ambulance service, contact Vold at (715) 479-4881.

FROM PAGE 45

truck,” said Vold. “We have one of the heaviest-forested areas in the county and are in the ‘red zone’ for brush and forest fires. The brush truck is vital for attacking these areas.” Firefighters also used the brush truck to help clear downed trees on town of Conover roads following a thunderstorm July 27, 2010. “We had 28 of our 30 firefighters out there clearing the roads,” said Vold. “Our firefighters were called out at 8:15 p.m. and by 2 a.m. July 28, all the roads in the town were passable.” Other rescue trucks The Conover Fire Department’s newest rig is a $302,000 engine/ pumper, put into use in 2008. The department raised about $100,000 to purchase the 2006 Sterling chassis and the town took over the payments on the remainder of the state-of-the-art apparatus. The new engine/pumper replaced a 1991 model, though that truck is a backup at the fire station on Highway K East. The new engine is equipped with a fully enclosed top control pump operator’s panel with crew seating for four firefighters at the forward portion. “The crew cab is equipped with a heating and air-conditioning unit for a climate-controlled atmosphere,” said Vold. The truck is equipped with a 1,250-gallons-per-minute mounted pump and an injection-style foam system. The water tank is a 1,500gallon tank with a 20-gallon foam concentrate cell. “At the top of the apparatus, directly behind the crew cab, is an electronically controlled deck gun,” said Vold. “There are compartments on both sides to maximize storage space.” A ladder rack stores the ladders above the apparatus when not in use and electronically lowers to an accessible height at the side of the body. The truck also is equipped with a 6kilowatt hydraulic generator which supplies power to four 740-watt removable lights. Several Conover firefighters completed RIT training in 2008. They include Chuck Healy, Chad Lederer, Todd Vreeland and Steve Vold. They are members of the East Side RIT with Eagle River, Phelps and Land O’ Lakes. The team is trained to assist other firefighters if they’re injured or trapped in a fire. The Conover department also gets a lot of use out of its mini pumperrescue truck purchased in 2004.

Page 47

Conover Whom do you call? Conover firefighter Steve Vold displays the new thermal-imaging camera, paid for through the department’s annual fundraisers. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Vold said the mini pumper is the first vehicle out of the garage on fire calls and it travels to all auto accidents and fires in the town of Conover. The pumper carries Jaws of Life, foam, tools and air packs for four firefighters. The truck also houses a defibrillator, which all firefighters are trained to use along with cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Vold said the rescue truck carries four passengers, plus the driver. The department purchased a new Lifeline ambulance in 2001. Vold said the Ford diesel-powered ambulance is twice as large as the department’s previous van-type ambulance. The vehicle stores hard

boards, defibrillator units and equipment for splinting and immobilizing patients. The ambulance is operated by Conover emergency medical technicians (EMT), who respond to approximately 200 calls each year. The department also has a Polaris 6x6 all-terrain vehicle, which is a rescue-recovery vehicle for all incidents. The six-wheeler is rigged with a long board on the rear bed for trail rescues, and is used for brush fires and to transport victims, personnel and equipment. Vold said the six-wheeler is large enough to carry a victim and an EMT in the back and two or three personnel on the front seat.

Police

Fire

911

Ambulance

911

CONOVER Page 48

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

John Uhrine John has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 10 years. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Fed Ex. As a firefighter, John has completed courses in ELF 1 and 2, CPR-D, LP burns, wildland firefighting, fire investigation, vehicle extrication, weapons of mass destruction and LZ training.

Chuck Healy Chuck has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 9 years. He is a resident of Eagle River and is self-employed. As a state-certified firefighter, Chuck has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, terrorism/hazardous materials, water rescue, wildland fire suppression, vehicle extrication, fire investigation, foam types and uses, weapons of mass destruction, cold-water rescue, CPR-D and LZ training, and hybrid electrical vehicle training. He is a member of the East Side RIT.

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Justin has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 5 years. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Log Cabin Outfitters. As a firefighter, Justin has completed courses in Firefighter 1 and 2, water rescue, wildland fire and LZ training.

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Justin Hoffman

Eagle River, St. Germain, Phelps & Three Lakes

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Jerod has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 5 years.

Jeremy has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 2 years.

Chad has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 2 years.

He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Log Cabin Outfitters.

He is a resident of Conover and is employed by The Toy Shop of Eagle River.

He is a resident of Conover.

As a firefighter, Jerod has completed courses in Firefighter 1 and 2, water rescue, wildland fire and LZ training.

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John has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 2 years.

James has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 2 years.

He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Eagle River Tire.

He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Pusich Logging.

As a firefighter, John has completed courses in entry-level Firefighter I and II, ice-water rescue and CPR.

As a firefighter, James has completed courses in entry-level Firefighter I and II, cold-water rescue and CPR.

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Donna J. Cox Donna has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department and a volunteer EMT-B for the Conover Ambulance for 2 years. She is a resident of Conover and is employed by the U.S. Postal Service and Energy Mart. Donna has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, cold-water rescue, CPR, wilderness rescue, water rescue, wildland fire, fire investigation training, fire inspection training and LZ training. She spent 10 years with the Crescent Fire Department in Oneida County.

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CONOVER Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Page 49

Could your home survive a wildfire? The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has recently completed a nine-minute video on the effectiveness of the Firewise program. The video features an Adams County homeowner whose “Firewise” house survived being overrun by the 3,400acre Cottonville fire while neighbors all around him lost theirs. When wildfires happen in Wisconsin, they cause great damage. But, by following a few basic protection tactics, people can safeguard their rural home and buildings. The department has created a storm recovery web page listing resources available to homeowners for help with clean up. The page also fea-

tures a home protection strategy developed by wildfire experts, called Firewise. People who have questions about dealing with storm-downed trees can also call the DNR call center at 1-(888) WDNR-INFo (936-7463) for information seven days a week, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and talk with a customer service specialist. “Homeowners who spend the time and energy to make their property Firewise will not only reduce the risk of a wildfire destroying their home or their neighbor’s home, it will also make it easier and safer for firefighters to protect homes in the event of a blaze,” said the DNR’s Firewise program coordinator Jolene Ackerman.

Eric Walloch Eric has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 2 years. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by The Toy Shop of Eagle River. As a firefighter, Eric has completed courses in entrylevel Firefighter I and II and CPR.

How Firewise works “Key to the effectiveness of Firewise is an assessment of your property and the fire hazards within an area of 100 to 200 feet around buildings,” said Ackerman, “an area called the ‘home ignition zone’.” “When beginning the Firewise process, start with the buildings on your property,” said Ackerman. “Clear debris off roofs and out of rain gutters. Prune all tree limbs, especially conifers (or evergreens), within 10 feet of roof edges. Don’t forget to keep decks swept off and clean out areas under them that have built-up debris. Accumulated dead vegetation supplies the fuel for a flying ember to smolder and ignite a fire.

Mike Bedish Mike has been a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department for 2 years. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by the Department of Natural Resources at Trout Lake. As a firefighter, Mike has completed courses in entry-level Firefighter I and II, cold-water rescue and CPR.

“Next, remove all flammable materials from within 3 to 5 feet around building foundations. This means removing annuals and cutting back perennials as they die off in the fall. Remove excessive amounts of mulch and anything flammable that may be stored next to your siding. “Clear fallen leaves, brush and dried grass for 30 feet around buildings. Remove dead and dying trees and broken-off limbs. Prune conifer branches to a height of 6 feet. Keep this 30-foot area maintained throughout next spring’s fire season. Store firewood and other combustible materials at least 30 feet away from the To FIREWISE, Pg. 53

Kevin Hartman Kevin is a volunteer firefighter for the Conover Fire Department, in his first year. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by Hartman Well Drilling & Pump. As a firefighter, Kevin has completed courses in entry-level Firefighter I and II, and entry-level driver/operator pumper truck I and II.

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Nancy L. Vold

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Nancy has been an EMT-B for the Conover 9-1 for 23 years. She currently holds the rank of supervisor. She is a resident of Conover, and the co-owner of Northern Carpets. Nancy is a certified EMT-B in Michigan and Wisconsin. She was Wisconsin’s EMT of the Year in 2003. She has completed LZ training, and is an honorary member of the Conover Fire Department and holds the rank of treasurer.

Kim has been an EMT-B for the Conover 9-1 for 14 years. She is a resident of Conover and the owner of M&K Service Custom Meats. Kim is certified in CPR, is a Michigan-certified EMT IV Tech, a Wisconsin IV tech and is on the National Registry of EMTs.

Eagle River

Joe Aschenbrenner Joe is a volunteer EMT for the Conover 9-1, in his first year. He is a resident of Conover and is employed by the town of Conover. As an EMT-B, Joe has completed EMT Basic training.

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PLUM LAKE Page 50

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Oct. 12, 2011

Kevin Rasmussen Kevin has been a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 29 years. He currently holds the rank of chief. He is also an EMT. He is a resident of Sayner and is employed by Camp Highland. As a firefighter, Kevin has completed courses in Firefighter I, mod 1 and 2, pumps and pumping 1 and 2, LP gas training, 8 Learning thru Burning, CPR, Scott Air Pack training, defensive driving course and vehicle fire training, and is a member of the RIT. Kevin has been an EMT-Basic for 2 years.

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Jerry Keller Jerry has been a volunteer for the Plum Lake Fire Department for 13 years. He holds the rank of assistant chief/treasurer. Jerry is a resident of Sayner and is retired from the city of Milwaukee Fire Department. With 43 years of service, Jerry has training as an EMT, CPR instructor and former paramedic. He has completed NIMS ICS 100 & 200, has trained for Jaws of Life and is a heavy-equipment operator. Jerry is a member of the RIT and also the head of Emergency Government for the town of Plum Lake.

Jim has been a volunteer firefighter with the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 27 years. He holds the rank of 2nd assistant chief. Jim is a resident of Sayner and is employed by Milton Propane. As a firefighter, Jim has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, LP gas training, Learning thru Burning, CPR, Scott Air Pack training, defensive driving, vehicle fire training and is a training officer for the West Central RIT.

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Bob has been a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 16 years. He currently holds the rank of subchief at Star Lake.

Steven has been a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 15 years. He currently holds the rank of captain.

He is a resident of Star Lake and is employed by Gateway Lodge.

He is a resident of Sayner and is employed by Pukall Lumber Co.

As a firefighter, Bob has completed courses in Firefighter I and II.

Ed Johnston Ed has been a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 19 years. He is a resident of Sayner and is employed by Ahlborn Equipment. As a firefighter, Ed has had on-the-job training and classes in mod 1.

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Andy has been a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 17 years.

Graham has been a volunteer firefighter with the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 16 years.

He is a resident of Say-

He is a resident of Sayner and is self-employed.

ner. As a firefighter, Andy has completed courses in entry-level Firefighter I and II.

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Jeremy Arnold Jeremy has been a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 6 years. He is a resident of Sayner and is employed by the 19th Hole, and is also selfemployed. As a firefighter, Jeremy has completed courses in Firefighter I, NIMZ training, ICS 100 and 200. He is a member of the West Central RIT. Jeremy is training to become an EMT.

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David has been a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department for 2 years.

He is a resident of Say-

He is a resident of Sayner and is employed by Clearview Supper Club.

As a firefighter, Richard has completed courses in vehicle extrication and Basic Life Support.

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He is a resident of Sayner and a student at Fox Valley Tech. As a certified Firefighter 1, John has completed courses in Hazmat Ops, First Responder, and Landing Zone training. He is a member of the RIT.

As an firefighter, Justin has completed courses in ELF-1 and ELF-2.

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John Wichner John has been a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance Service for 5 years.

BriAnna is a volunteer firefighter for the Plum Lake Volunteer Fire Department. She currently is the department’s photographer. She is a resident of Sayner and is a student.

As a firefighter, David has completed courses in Firefighter I and II.

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Eagle River

Peggy Nimz Peggy has been a volunteer EMT-I for the Plum Lake Ambulance Service for 20 years. She currently holds the rank of secretary-treasurer. She is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Ministry Health Care, and as an EMT-I by Howard Young Medical Center since 1999, and is currently a St. Germain Town Chairwoman. Peggy is certified in Emergency Vehicle Operation Course, Certified Emergency Vehicle Operations, Acute Cardiac Life Support, Pediatric Education for Prehospital Professionals, Prehospital Trauma Life Support, NIMS – National Incident Management System, and ice-water rescue.

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Barb is a volunteer EMT for the Plum Lake Ambulance Service. She currently holds the rank of EMT-B

She is a resident of St. Germain and is employed by Howard Young Medical Center/Spirit Transportation.

She is a resident of Sayner.

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EYE CARE and EYE WEAR associates

VILAS COUNTY

NEWS-REVIEW Eagle River

141B S. Willow St., Eagle River Eye Care - 715-479-9390 Eye Wear - 715-477-1602

Oct. 12, 2011

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Page 53

Always ready to serve Training helps prepare firefighters, EMTs for emergency situations ___________

BY SONIA DIONNE SPECIAL TO THE NEWS-REVIEW

___________

A section of steel I-beam from the World Trade Center’s twin towers rests in the Wisconsin Firefighters Memorial in Wisconsin Rapids — a reminder that 343 firefighters died in rescue attempts during the 9/11 terrorist attacks 10 years ago. Firefighters put their lives on the line daily when the alarms sound. They also train to function as a unit, prepared for any emergency. Locally, Nicolet College in Rhinelander prepares firefighters for a variety of incidents through basic and advanced training. Emergency medical technician (EMT) Louise Clark helps keep rescue personnel up to date with their training at the St. Germain Fire and Rescue Department. Clark, who is a sixth-grade teacher at Northland Pines, also uses her instruction skills to teach medical sections of the curriculum at the fire department. She teaches correct protocol for using the long board and cervical collar which stabilize the spine during transport. She teaches how to observe and evaluate symptoms in the field. “We work together in practice so we all know how to do this. Once in a while, when we feel rusty, we’ll ask volunteers to help us practice our skills,” she stated. Members of the department attend meetings and refresher training twice per month. Deputy Fire Chief Tim Gebhardt determines training curriculum which is established by the National Fire Protection Association. He schedules training sessions and then finds appropriate personnel to teach. The training sessions include practice using and caring for equipment, assessing danger within buildings and reviewing actions taken on previous calls. “This encourages correct procedure

Firewise FROM PAGE 49

house and other buildings and clear a space at least 10 feet around them. “Next, look at the vegetation in the zone that extends 30 to 100 feet beyond buildings. Remove as many fallen branches and trees as you can this fall. Start with the pines as they are considered to be the most

Louise Clark, an emergency medical technician with the St. Germain Fire Department, trains rescue personnel in her department. --Photo By Sonia Dionne

and communication among the volunteers,” Clark said. “If procedure isn’t correct, it could cost someone injury or his life.” Clark earned her Firefighting I and II rankings through Northcentral Technical College in Wausau. She served as an EMT with the Mosinee Fire Department for 15 years before moving to northern Wisconsin. To retain credentials, one must continually take classes so, at present, she is at-

tending school for recertification as an EMT and plans to finish training next February. “EMT training involves 150 hours. The refresher course involves 30 hours which I must take every two years. At that time, I will reapply for licensure,” she explained. As an EMT, Clark responds to emergency calls for both the St. Germain and Plum Lake Emergency Medical Services units.

flammable tree type in our state. “Move this material to a local brush collection site or have it chipped on your property. Burning should be your last option. If you decide to burn, start piling the material now and wait to burn it when the ground is completely snow covered. Keep piles small and burn early in the winter rather than late winter to minimize the chance that embers could still be smoldering and flare

up when the snow melts. “Finally, clear fallen trees, shrubs, and limbs along your driveway. Keep tree limbs pruned 15 feet above your driveway to accommodate emergency vehicles, should one need to access your property. Remember, a firefighter cannot help save your home if they cannot get to it. “These are just a few things you can do to protect your home and

In the meantime, she serves as a Level I Responder in St. Germain, which enables her to assess lifethreatening situations and to stabilize patients by giving oxygen, using the defibrillator, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation, inserting a breathing tube, and giving epinephrine shots for anaphylactic shock. She also can report vitals, help with childbirth, make water rescues, make the scene of the incident secure and safe, and call other resources as needed. As an EMT, Clark will be dispatched by a 911 operator and will offer life support and non life-threatening care with more responsibility. Communication skills are pertinent. Clark explained that her training involves input from the volunteers. “No one of us has all the answers, so I train with my book learning and experience, but others sometimes suggest additional methods, so we may try them,” she said. “Input from others is sometimes valuable. I find it exciting that others have ideas that we can use together as a unit. Conditions may not be by the book. We must do our best so things don’t go wrong.” Clark also trains younger people interested in becoming a firefighter. With restrictions, a student may be trained as a junior firefighter at the age of 14. Upon passing both semesters of training as a Firefighter I and II, members are qualified to enter burning buildings and enter other dangerous situations. Clark said that firefighters do what they can and often do more than expected. Not all are water rescuers and not all are ladder people. They discover their own abilities within the department as well as each other’s comfort zones and then serve accordingly. “Firefighters find their niche and serve all of us,” said Clark. “They courageously place their lives on the line.” property. By taking action now, you are lowering the chance of losing your property to wildfire. Talk to your neighbors about the importance of preparing your properties now, before spring fire season.” If you would like a home ignition zone assessment packet mailed to you, contact Ackerman at (608) 2677677, jolene.ackerman@wisconsin. gov or Box 7921, 101 S. Webster St., Madison, WI 53703.

Page 54

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

DNR FROM PAGE 39

6 to 10 feet. Likewise, for ornamental shrubs planted next to the home, avoid flammable evergreens whenever possible. Improve access Another equally important item property owners should look at is access. Ask yourself these questions: Can fire trucks get to my home? What is my driveway like? How wide is it? Are there low, overhanging branches? Is there enough space by my home for fire trucks to park and turn around? If my driveway comes off of a private road, what condition is that in? Fire trucks are large vehicles and they need enough space to safely operate. It’s also a good idea to make sure the house or fire number is posted and clearly visible at the entrance to the driveway. Firefighters will do what they can to protect any and all structures threatened by a wildfire. But situations can occur where enough firefighters and equipment won’t be immediately available. They may be on another call somewhere else, which could delay their arrival at your property. Or the fire may not get reported immediately, allowing it to threaten a home before firefighters arrive. Or there may be more than one house threatened by a given fire. If there aren’t enough resources available to deal with every house, firefighters may have to protect only those homes they can safely and effectively defend. A home surrounded by large amounts of highly flammable fuels and down an inaccessible driveway may, out of necessity, become a low priority. However, property owners who take the preventive measures before a fire occurs greatly increase the odds of their home surviving. And these odds are improved whether firefighters are present or not. In many cases, “fire-wise” homes can survive on their own.

Dr. Diane Hrdina

Jill Brunstad, P.A.

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Oct. 12, 2011

Page 55

Vilas County Sheriff’s Department

Frank Tomlanovich, Vilas County Sheriff

The department is headed by Sheriff Frank Tomlanovich with Chief Deputy Joseph Fath. Operations Captain is Russell Kennedy and Timothy Evenson is the Jail Administrator. Gary Peske is the Communications Supervisor and James Galloway is the Emergency Management Director. In addition, there are five lieutenants, five detective sergeants, 20 deputies, three part-time deputies, four jail sergeants, 15 correctional officers, two part-time correctional officers, one telecommunications sergeant, 11 telecommunications officers, one part-time telecommunications officer and four law enforcement clerks. In 2010, the total number of complaints received was 18,010. Of the calls received, 2,044 were 911 calls. The department received 1,208 reports of traffic accidents. Of the 1,208 calls, 1,100 were reportable accidents resulting in property damage in excess of $1,000, personal injury or death. Deer were responsible for 372 accidents. There were nine reported bear accidents and one bobcat accident. The county reported two traffic fatalities in 2010, which was down from the five reported in 2009. The sheriff’s department dispatches law enforcement and emergency services to 14 towns and the city of Eagle River. The countywide E911 system went online in 1997.

VILAS COUNTY STATISTICAL FACTS* Yearly Full-Time Population (based on 2000 census) ....................19,741 Seasonal (peak) Population .........................................................96,000 Seasonal Dwellings (based on 2000 census) ..............................13,375 Permanent Dwellings (based on 1990 census)..............................7,000 Named Lakes.....................................................................................563 Unnamed Lakes.................................................................................757 ’95 Equalized Value ..........................................................1,690,179,600 ’05 Equalized Value ..........................................................6,170,900,800 Total Lake Acreage .............................................................93,889 acres Net Land Acreage .................................................................8,593 acres Cold Water Streams ............................................................................35 Warm Water Streams.........................................................................116 Intermittent Streams ............................................................................16

VILAS COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT MISSION STATEMENT “The Vilas County Sheriff’s Department will enhance the quality of life in the community through our service to the public, protection of persons and property, and impartial enforcement of the law.”

MILES OF ROADS State .............................................................................................136.13 County ..........................................................................................205.84 Town...........................................................................................1,112.04 *From Wis. Blue Book, Extension Office

Information from the department’s 2010 annual report.

VILAS COUNTY SHERIFF call (715) 479-4441 call (800) 472-7290 EMERGENCY DIAL 911

Vilas County Sheriff’s Department Employees

OPERATIONS CAPTAIN Russell Kennedy

DEPUTIES Randy Schneider Matthew McMahon Glenn Huelskamp Christopher Petreikis Theodore Indermuehle Joy Kohegyi Robert Minx

JAIL ADMINISTRATOR Timothy Evenson

PART-TIME DEPUTIES Kevin Schramke Katy Breier

COMMUNICATIONS LIEUTENANT Gary Peske

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERGEANT Erica Buckton

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR James Galloway

TELECOMMUNICATIONS OFFICERS Tracy Schilling Anthony Campion Thomas Belzer Joseph Casey Kimberlie Eggleston Amanda Mattke Lori Scarcelli Dennis Sengstock

SHERIFF Frank Tomlanovich CHIEF DEPUTY Joseph Fath

LIEUTENANTS Mark Collins Jeffrey Schaub Troy Kane

David Gardner Gerard Ritter

DETECTIVE SERGEANTS David Dobbs Carl Gauger Charisse Rozga-Anderson Patrick Schmidt Louise Horn

Peter Heller Ty Peterson Gregory Fulton Dale Soltow Eric Santefort Michael Aderman Joshua Ciatti

Eric Neff Jason Molle Shyla Belzer Thomas Bill Emily Miller Dustin Pace

Mika Sauvola Michael Duwe Tammy Duwe Jamie Meier Joshua Collette

PART-TIME CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS Rebecca Gleason Sherri Congleton OPEN

Patti Sieren Patricia Rine Dawn Grmick

PART-TIME TELECOMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Sherri Congleton JAIL SERGEANTS William Weiss Nancy Sippl

CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS James Rozga Sherylyn Block George Crabtree Amanda Kuiper David Buckton Kristine Lovas Lyle Spurgeon Thomas Stoltman Chad Christensen Kelly Schoepke

Rodger Haugen Sue Bedish

LAW ENFORCEMENT CLERKS Marge Favorite Jeannine Luke

Abby Trapp Beth Komar

COUNTY BOARD Stephen Favorite, Chairperson Christopher Mayer, Vice Chairperson Alden Bauman, Second Vice Chairperson LAW ENFORCEMENT & EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Robert Egan, Chairperson Alden Bauman, Vice Chairperson Jack Harrison Edward Bluthardt Jr. Emil Bakka

Page 56

Oct. 12, 2011

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THANK YOU TO EMERGENCY PERSONNEL

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PRESQUE ISLE Oct. 12, 2011

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Members of the Presque Isle Volunteer Fire Department, posing behind their new rescue boat, include, from left, Marshall Reckard, Jim Nelson, Kathy Nelson,

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Doug Wolter, Sara Moore, Linda Novak, Linda Chantry, Mark Riegelman and Rick Wallman. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

New 18-foot Alumacraft rescue boat added to Presque Isle Fire Department ___________

BY JUSTIN KNITT NEWS-REVIEW INTERN

___________

The Presque Isle Fire Department continued to upgrade its fire and rescue equipment in 2011, according to Fire Chief Jim Nelson. The department purchased a new 2011 Alumacraft rescue boat. The 18foot boat is powered by a 40-horsepower Mercury outboard engine, is wider and more durable than the previous 15-foot Crestliner rescue boat and will be used for water rescue and fire calls on islands. Also new in 2011, the fire department purchased a sign for the front of its firehouse. The new sign improves the overall cosmetic appearance of the modern firehouse and allows the fire station to blend into the rustic backdrop of Presque Isle. Last year, Presque Isle improved its insurance rating from 9 to 7 within 5 miles of the fire station, which means lower insurance premiums for those property owners. Nelson said one-half of the rating was based on equipment, training and the number of firefighters and most of the rest of the criteria was based on water capacity and the ability of fire-

fighters to maintain the water supply for an extended period of time. The public protection classification remains at 9 in areas of the town that are more than 5 miles from the station, according to Nelson. Presque Isle firefighters are better equipped today than at any point in the department’s history. The frontline tools for a solid initial attack include a 2007 Pierce Contender fire engine, a 2002 Peterbilt engine and a tanker that carries 3,200 gallons of water. The Pierce engine, the first new fire truck the department ever purchased, includes a 1,000-gallon tank and can pump 1,500 gallons per minute (gpm) — enough to support five hoses. It replaced a 1980 Ford engine. The Peterbilt has a 1,500-gallon tank and also a 1,500-gpm pump. It includes a deluge gun on top, 1,000 feet of hose, ladders and pipe poles. “Both engines carry both Type A and Type B foam,” said Nelson, “which makes our water supplies go even further.” The department purchased two hydraulic cutters for its JAWS extrication unit in 2010. The new cutters are more durable and can cut through the stronger materials found in modern

cars. After the purchase of a second set of extrication equipment four years ago, the department now carries a set on both the rescue truck and the ambulance. Two years ago, Presque Isle became one of the first organizations in the North Woods to purchase the most powerful handheld fire-knockdown tool available, called FIT-5. Nelson said they purchased two of the units at $1,300 each because they can be effectively deployed in a wide variety of structure fire scenarios, from incipient to fully involved, and in defensive, offensive and transitional modes. Nelson said the high-tech device interrupts flame and lowers temperature rapidly, making any interior attack safer. He said the nontoxic devices work in contained areas in seconds, removing from the equation the molecular elements that fuel a fire’s chemical reaction — fuel, oxygen and heat. Marketers of the product say First Responders who don’t have water or proper personnel available for an interior attack “can buy crews 15 minutes or more” by deploying the FIT-5 unit. Also new in 2009, firefighters pur-

chased two water rescue suits and a set of rescue jacks for vehicle stabilization. And the ambulance side of the department purchased what is called a stair chair — a chair that allows emergency medical technicians (EMT) to strap an injured person tightly in a chair for maneuvering in staircases and tight spaces. “It can be used with or without a short hard board,” said ambulance coordinator Donna Jukich. “The unit features a track system on the back side so that patients can be scooted down tight stairwells without much lifting.” Four years ago, grants from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency allowed the department to purchase a thermal-imaging camera, new turnout gear and a new system to fill air tanks. Like many other departments, Presque Isle gets a little recruiting boost by being able to offer minimal stipends and length-of-service awards to firefighters. “Last year, the town spent about $11,000 on stipends for calls and the length-of-service award program,” To PRESQUE ISLE, Pg. 58

PRESQUE ISLE Page 58

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Presque Isle FROM PAGE 57

said Nelson. In 2007, Presque Isle used an $11,655 federal grant to help purchase 16 two-way radios, six pagers and a new truck radio for about $16,000. Other equipment serving the department’s needs include a grass-fire truck that includes a 250-gallon tank and foam capabilities, which were purchased with a 50% matching grant from the DNR. Twelve years ago, the town board funded a $310,000 addition to the station, increasing its size by 75% with a 48- by 56-foot addition. The project added several bays, a training and meeting room, and kitchen and full bathroom facilities. Not only is the facility larger, but the renovation included a new furnace system, plumbing and wiring. Nelson said thanks to funds provided by the town board in recent years, the department has the newest equipment fleet it has ever had, housed in a modern fire station. The department has nine EMTs, including Jukich, John Sitkiewitz, Al Eschenbauch, Adam Johnson, Linda Novak, Linda Chantry, Kathy Nelson, Sara Moore and Wayne Muck. Nelson said the department can conduct effective snowmobile, off-road and other rescue operations with the help of a Polaris six-wheel drive allterrain vehicle, which can pull a sled or trailer. Providing a special-purpose rescue sled was the Presque Isle Sno-Bunnies Snowmobile Club. The fire department is staffed by a strong nucleus of volunteers, including many who have completed both mod 1 and mod 2 of the state’s Firefighter I training program. Jim Nelson, a retired police officer from Racine, was named the new chief in early 2010 after serving four years on the department, including one year as assistant chief. Kenneth Tworek, the former chief, is certified in Firefighter I and II, as well as NIMS 700, 100 and 200. He retired from the Cook County Sheriff’s Department in Illinois and now lives in Marenisco, Mich. Tworek, who served three years as chief, served the Cook County Sheriff’s Department from 1974 to 2002. Ray Straubel, a former chief and assistant chief, is a self-employed solid-waste hauler who has completed Firefighter I training and other courses in his 27 years with the department. He is a state-certified firefighter. Frank “Skip” Slatinsky, a 27year veteran, is self-employed. John Sitkiewitz is state-certified

The Presque Isle Volunteer Fire Department purchased a new sign to promote the department, displayed here on the

and has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, and has been an EMT in the National EMT Registry for 29 years. He works for the town. Al Eschenbauch, a former fire chief, is a 33-year department volunteer who is self-employed. Eschenbauch has completed numerous training courses and both Firefighter I and II. He is a certified EMT. Cathy Gascoigne, a 19-year member, is the secretary/treasurer. She is a self-employed medical transcriptionist. Donna Jukich has 17 years of experience with Presque Isle fire and rescue and is in her 11th year as the ambulance coordinator. Jukich is a registered nurse and co-owner of Cedar Bay Resort. Carl F. Wolter is the member with the longest standing on the squad — 50 years. He has completed many training courses. He is self-employed in excavating. Jay R. Gascoigne, a 39-year veteran of the department, works for the town. Bill Logan, a self-employed log home builder, has been with the department for 11 years. He is trained in Firefighter I. Joe Thoma, a firefighter for 15 years, has completed Firefighter I and II training. Forrest Jukich, a firefighter for 18 years, co-owns Cedar Bay Resort. He has Firefighter I training and has completed other courses.

front of its station. The department has more than two dozen firefighters and EMTs. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

John Byrnes, with the department for 12 years, is a firefighter. He is employed by Sysco Foods. Adam Johnson has been an EMT and firefighter for 11 years. He owns Skyview Lodge & Supper Club. Mitch Wagner, manager of Carlin Lake Lodge, has been with the department for 10 years. He has completed Firefighter I and II training. Linda Novak, now in her sixth year with the department, is the assistant ambulance coordinator. She has completed Firefighter I and II as well as becoming certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and EMT-Basic. She also has completed the introduction to wildland firefighting course. Mark Riegelman, with the department for six years, is a retired airplane mechanic from Racine. Marshall Reckard, a firefighter who has served for six years with the Presque Isle Fire Department, is retired from Ameritech. Jesse Moore, a five-year firefighter, works at Pukall Lumber Co. in Arbor Vitae. Cal Johnson, with the department for five years, is self-employed. Douglas Wolter, a five-year firefighter, is employed by Carl Wolter, who owns an excavation company. Linda Chantry, a retired United Airlines customer service agent, is in her fifth year with the department. She is certified in CPR and EMTBasic.

Beth Marohn is in her fifth year as a First Responder. She is self-employed in construction. Kathy Nelson, a retired registered nurse, is in her fifth year as an EMT. Sara Moore, an EMT and firefighter with three years’ experience, is certified in hazardous materials and human tracking. Wayne Muck, a firefighter and EMT, joined the department in 2010. Wayne also serves on the Boulder Junction Fire Department.

Presque Isle Whom do you call?

Police

Fire

911

Ambulance

911

WOODRUFF Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Members of the Woodruff Fire Department posing with their refurbished 1958 fire engine include, front row from left, Bob Blohm, Steve Timmons, Mike Pockat, Lyle Gehrke, Ryan Krueger and Fire Chief Mike Timmons; second row, Brian Iverson,

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Ferd Gehrke, Ed Mejerle, Victor Gee, Matt Godard and Patrick Trapp; and back row, Kraig Timmons, Josh Iverson and Nick Krueger. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Woodruff Fire Department restores original 1958 fire truck for parades ___________

BY GARY RIDDERBUSCH NEWS-REVIEW EDITOR

___________

The Woodruff Fire Department undertook a special project in 2011, refurbishing a 1958 fire truck that was an original unit with the department more than five decades ago. Fire Chief Mike Timmons said the bright red fire truck will be used in parades and for other activities to promote the fire department. “It was in private ownership, but was just sitting in a yard and getting rusty,” said Timmons. “We were able to buy it back, repair some of the metal on it and repaint. It looks just like it did back in 1958 when it was a vital truck for the department.” The truck has special meaning for longtime Woodruff firefighters and brothers Lyle and Ferd Gerhke, as Lyle has been with the department for 62 years and Ferd for 55 years. Firefighter Nick Krueger was in-

strumental in leading the project and painting the truck. “It has the original pump on the front, though we don’t have it operating, and we took the tank out of the back so firefighters can ride in the back,” said Timmons. “We had to replace some of the wood railings, but other than that, it’s all original. The interior is in really good shape.” In a major truck purchase, Timmons said the department ordered a new engine from Marion Body Works in February and delivery is expected in early 2012. “The $310,000 engine features a 2,500-gallon tank, a 1,250-gallons-perminute pump and foam unit,” said Timmons. Timmons said department fundraisers paid for one-half of the new rig, with tax dollars paying the remainder. He said the department is not sure if it will sell a 1984 truck the new engine is replacing. The department also purchased

three automated external defibrillators at a cost of $1,400. The portable electronic devices automatically diagnose potentially life-threatening cardiac problems in a patient. “We located one in the town hall, one in the first engine out and one in the fire station,” said Timmons. The department also purchased extrication equipment in 2011, including a JAWS unit, stabilizers, jacks and hydraulic tools. “The equipment is located in a storage compartment in our rescue truck that responds to car accidents,” said Timmons. “Many of the firefighters also completed extrication training and hybrid car training during the past year.” Ongoing training Several members of the department learned about the statewide mutual aid box alarm system during the past year. “The statewide program gave us

training on being prepared for a major emergency in which we have to ‘go outside the box’ to get mutual aid,” said Timmons. “For example, if a major disaster hit our area, and we couldn’t get mutual aid from Arbor Vitae or St. Germain, we were trained in getting help from other areas such as Wausau or even beyond.” Eight members of the department also completed Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) training in 2009. During RIT training, department personnel were given techniques to locate and rescue an injured or trapped firefighter. In addition to the RIT training, members of the department underwent haz-mat training through Nicolet Area Technical College. Furthermore, the department received National Incident Management System (NIMS) training in 2007. “Everyone in our department is now certified with NIMS,” said TimTo WOODRUFF, Pg. 60

WOODRUFF Page 60

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Woodruff FROM PAGE 59

mons. “This is a nationwide class that is mandatory if you want to apply for FEMA grants.” The department also attended courses through the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Forest Fire School, including how to fight wildland fires. Woodruff firefighters are trained to use the department’s thermal-imaging camera. It enables firefighters to locate the hottest fire spot in a smokefilled building. The camera cost approximately $7,500. Fire-fighting fleet The department took delivery of a new 3,000-gallon stainless-steel tanker in October 2009, replacing a 1976 tanker. Timmons said the tanker features a Kenworth chassis and a tank installed by Stainless & Repair of Marshfield Inc., a 500-gallon portable pump, large-diameter hose and a FolDa-Tank portable water tank. The tank can hold 3,000 gallons of water at the scene of a fire, allowing tankers to be refilled at another location. The pool is mechanically loaded and unloaded on the passenger side of the tanker. Timmons said the tanker was purchased with taxpayer dollars through the fire department’s annual budget. In addition to the new tanker and the 1984 engine, the equipment fleet includes a 1991 Pierce engine, a 1997 Chevrolet equipment truck and a 1993 F-350 Ford brush truck/water supply unit. The equipment truck carries the Cascade system, hand tools and a generator. The brush truck, previously used by the town crew for plowing, was restored to like-new condition and carries 250 gallons of water with a foam-induction system for battling woodland fires. New fire hall in ’08 The Woodruff Fire Department moved into its new fire hall on Highway 47 in 2008, part of a $2.5 million project that involved construction of a town hall/police station and a separate town shop/fire station. The complex is located at 1418 Highway 47, about six blocks east of the intersection with Highway 51 in downtown Woodruff. Timmons said the department went from a building that offered four bays for five trucks to a 4,480-squarefoot facility that has eight larger bays for its growing fleet of rescue equipment. “Now we’ve got six doors and a lot more room for moving around equipment. We built this to handle the de-

Woodruff Fire Department firefighter Nick Krueger played an instrumental role in refurbishing the department’s 1958 fire truck. The truck will be used in parades and other promotional activities for the department. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

partment’s needs way into the future,” he said. Timmons said the station features an automatic exhaust-handling ventilation system that kicks in “at the slightest hint of fumes.” The station also has a meeting room and full shower facilities. A Cascade system used to fill air bottles for the self-contained breathing apparatus is housed in a separate room at the new station. The department is comprised of more than 20 state-certified firefighters. They are as follows: Mike Timmons has been a volunteer firefighter for the Woodruff Fire Department for 37 years. He is the department’s chief and the Woodruff town chairman. As a firefighter, he has completed courses in Firefighter I, officers training, educational methodology I, hazardous materials operations, DNR wildland fires and inspector. He was Firefighter of the Year in 1983 and is treasurer of the Northwoods Fire Prevention Committee. He has completed mod 2 for Firefighter I state certification and has also completed a threepart incident command system class. Victor Gee has been a volunteer firefighter for the Woodruff Fire Department for nine years and is the assistant fire chief. He is a resident of Woodruff and is self-employed with North Star Emergency Vehicle Service. Gee is a state-certified firefighter, RIT trained, a DNR firefighter, training officer and is a certified emergency vehicle technician.

Rodney Knapstein has been a volunteer firefighter for the Woodruff Fire Department for 34 years. He is a resident of Woodruff and is employed by Woodruff Appliance. He has completed mod 2 for the Firefighter I state-certification program and has also completed a three-part incident command system class, DNR wildland fire and haz-mat decontamination. Lyle Gehrke has been a volunteer firefighter for the Woodruff Fire Department for 62 years. He is a former chief. He is a resident of Woodruff and is retired. He has completed mod 2 of the Firefighter I state-certification program, DNR wildland fire and has also completed a three-part incident command system class. Ferd Gehrke has been a volunteer firefighter for the Woodruff Fire Department for 55 years. He is a resident of Woodruff and is retired. As a firefighter, he has completed mod 2 of the Firefighter I state-certification program and has also completed a threepart incident command system class. Steve Timmons has been a volunteer firefighter for the Woodruff Fire Department for 15 years and currently holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae. Timmons is a certified firefighter and has completed the DNR wildland fire course, hazmat decontamination, haz-mat awareness, NIMS training and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) courses. He also is a fire inspector. Kyle Timmons has been a volunteer firefighter for the Woodruff Fire

Department for 11 years. He holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Woodruff and is employed by Trapp Bros. He is a certified firefighter and has completed courses in DNR wildland fire and haz-mat decontamination. Michael Pockat Sr. has been a volunteer firefighter for the Woodruff Fire Department for 10 years. He is a resident of Woodruff and is employed by the town of Woodruff. He completed Firefighter I and is a certified firefighter. Ed Mejerle has completed Firefighter I and II training and is an eight-year member of the department. He has completed NIMS training and is employed at Ace Hardware. Brian Iverson is in his fifth year with the Woodruff department. He is employed by Howard Young Medical Center and is a state-certified firefighter. He has training in haz-mat awareness, RIT and CPR. Eric Immler of Woodruff has been a member of the Woodruff Fire Department for five years. He is a statecertified firefighter. He is employed by Coons Franklin Lodge and also is a student. Matt Godard has been a firefighter for the Woodruff Fire Department for four years. He has completed Firefighter I and II, RIT, pump training and wildland fire training. He is employed by Badger Truck Repair. Bobby Blohm has been a member of the Woodruff department for four years. He has Firefighter I and RIT training and is a certified driver/operator. He is a resident of Woodruff and is employed by Lakewood Construction. Patrick Trapp has been with the department for two years and has taken Firefighter I, pump and RIT training. He is a resident of Woodruff and employed by Yamaha Motor Corp. Ryan Krueger has been with the fire department for one year. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed by Dennis Evenson. He has taken entry-level Firefighter I and II training and is a state-certified Firefighter I. Nick Krueger has been with the fire department for two years. He is a resident of Woodruff and is employed at Island Collision Center. Katy Pockat is a junior firefighter and has been with the department for two years. She lives in Woodruff and is employed at Save More Marketplace. She has Firefighter I training. Josh Iverson and Kraig Timmons are junior members of the Woodruff Fire Department. Josh is the son of firefighter Brian Iverson and Kraig is the son of Fire Chief Mike Timmons. Both recruits have had training in fire-fighting techniques and volunteer at department events and fundraisers.

ARBOR VITAE Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Members of the Arbor Vitae Fire Department include, front row from left, Stan Lewis, Karl Fink, Brian Dierzey, Todd Wiesendanger, Ethan Sennett, Todd Albano, Mike Van Meter, Jeff Biertzer, Mike Bernard, Chris Woynich and Todd Hunter;

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back row, Rick Budish, A.J. Burgoyne, Ryan Gehrig, Fire Chief Frank Bauers, Todd Rucinski, Rube Wohlfiel, James Romano, Frank Kulpa, Devin Roach, Steve Congdon, Randy Trapp, Wilbert “Doc” Herrmann and Jeff Hunter. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Arbor Vitae Fire Department develops new website to assist firefighters, public ___________

BY GARY RIDDERBUSCH NEWS-REVIEW EDITOR

___________

The Arbor Vitae Fire Department developed a new website in 2011, designed to assist firefighters and inform the public about activities within the department and the community. “The new website was upgraded to serve the Arbor Vitae community and our firefighters,” said Fire Chief Frank Bauers. “We feel it’s a nice addition to the department and the community.” Web administrator Mark Ross said the new website is at arborvitaefiredept.org. “The new website features fire department news and events, firefighter profiles, photographs, educational opportunities for members, and an online store to purchase department hats and shirts,” said Ross. Another feature may help the department in its fundraising efforts. Ross said community members can make donations to the fire department

through the website. “It’s an easy way to donate or make a memorial donation,” said Ross. “There also is a firefighter honor roll on the site, as well as links to other fire and rescue organizations and memorials.” Community members can get information about fire department events, including the annual fireman’s picnic, as well as a weather link complete with 24-hour local forecasts and radar. “We’re excited about the new site and what it can do for the community,” said Ross. While the department didn’t purchase any major fire-fighting equipment during the past year, Bauers said the department took a big step, upgrading pagers and radios. “We updated the pagers from wide band to narrow band,” said Bauers. “Thirty-five members got updated pagers at an average cost of $450. The new radios cost $650 for handheld and $800 for two-ways.” In 2009, a $56,000 federal grant

helped fund the training for the new Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) training. Eleven firefighters from the Arbor Vitae department completed the training. “If a firefighter is trapped in a building, the RIT has the training to go into a fire to save the trapped fighter,” said Bauers. Arbor Vitae joined four other departments to form the West Central RIT. They include St. Germain, Plum Lake, Boulder Junction and Minocqua. “All five departments send four personnel and RIT rescue equipment to a structure fire just for the safety of other firefighters,” said Bauers. Bauers said the department is looking at replacing its 1995 pumper and is setting funds aside in the budget for that purchase. In 2008, a grant helped the department pay for 10 new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) tanks, 11 new sets of turnout gear and other pieces of equipment. SCBA tanks are the air tanks fire-

fighters wear while fighting fires. They also acquired an enclosed fill chamber for the SCBA tanks. The department also purchased a new washing machine specially designed for cleaning turnout gear, along with 13 new face pieces with built-in microphones and voice amplifiers. The department also outfitted its heavy rescue truck with a mobile Cascade system to fill SCBA tanks in the field, according to Bauers. Five years ago, the Arbor Vitae Fire Department purchased a four-door, 2006 Chevy 1-ton truck as a rescue/fire truck. “Rescue 2 cost approximately $40,000 and was funded by money raised at the firemen’s picnic,” said Bauers. “There was no cost to the taxpayers and the truck was put together by the department.” A new pumper/tanker was put into use in March 2005. It features an 1,800-gallon water tank and a 1,250To ARBOR VITAE, Pg. 62

ARBOR VITAE Page 62

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Arbor Vitae

ki has completed courses in Firefighter I, First Responder, vehicle extrication, hazardous materials and ventilation. James Romano Jr. has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 18 years and a First Responder for 14 years. He is a First Responder training officer. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed at Romano Tile Co. As a state-certified firefighter, Romano has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, haz-mat operations and vehicle extrication. He also has National Incident Management System (NIMS) training, is certified in ice rescue and has training officer certification. Greg Hunter has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 15 years. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae. As a state-certified firefighter, Hunter has completed courses in Firefighter I, and entry-level Firefighter I and II. Karl Fink has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 14 years. He is a resident of Minocqua and is employed by Fink Bros. Inc. As a state-certified firefighter, Fink has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, haz-mat awareness, incident command I, II and III, hazmat operations and tactics and operations. He also is a First Responder. Michael Van Meter has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 13 years and holds the rank of captain. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed by the town of St. Germain. As a firefighter, he is certified in Firefighter I and II and haz-mat technician. He is a certified training officer, has RIT training, vehicle extrication and driver operator. He has taken many additional classes from NATC and Lake Superior Technical College. Steve Congdon has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 14 years. He is a resident of Woodruff and is employed by Laser Innovations Inc. He is the rescue squad captain. As a certified firefighter, Congdon has completed Firefighter I and II, First Responder, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, vehicle extrication, haz-mat technician and operations courses, as well as courses in ice rescue, fire investigation, wildland fire-fighting, strategies and tactics, and several Learning thru Burning and other related classes. He is a master smoke diver, driver and operator and is NIMS certified. Nicholas Stephens has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for nine years. He is employed by Pukall Lumber Co. A certified Firefighter I, Stephens is trained in basic driver operator I and II, hazardous materials operations,

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gallons-per-minute pump. The $207,000 Pierce rig was paid for in halves with town of Arbor Vitae tax dollars and the department’s fundraisers. The truck also features a Class A foam system, a front hose line and a deck gun. The department spent an additional $10,000 to equip the new truck. The equipment includes eight carbon-fiber breathing-apparatus cylinders and four Mustang Ice Commander suits. These suits are fitted for ice- and cold-water surface rescue. Lined with quilted material, the suits keep rescuers warm in frigid waters. The Arbor Vitae Fire Department puts on several fundraisers yearly, including its annual fireman’s picnic held in August. Proceeds from the picnic pay for fire trucks, turnout gear and other rescue equipment. “We get excellent support from the community,” said Bauers. “We want to express our thanks for the support.” Due to the department’s state-ofthe-art equipment and training, Arbor Vitae holds a Class 8 fire rating. The fire department members are as follows: Frank Bauers has been a volunteer firefighter and First Responder for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 35 years. He currently holds the rank of chief. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed by Pukall Lumber Co. As a state-certified firefighter, Bauers has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, officers’ training, hazardous materials, vehicle extrication, ventilation, Wisconsin Fire Instructor I and has attended various other Nicolet Area Technical College (NATC) courses. Rick Budish has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 35 years. He currently holds the rank of assistant chief. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed at Budish Electric. As a firefighter, Budish has completed courses in vehicle extrication, hazardous materials and ventilation and is a fire investigator. Todd Morgan has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 22 years. He currently holds the rank of second assistant chief and treasurer. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is self-employed at Morgan Heating. As a statecertified firefighter, Morgan has completed courses in Firefighter I, vehicle extrication, ventilation and hazardous materials. Todd Hunter has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 35 years. He holds the rank of lieutenant. He is a resident of

To improve communication with the public and department members, the Arbor Vitae Fire Department developed a new and improved website this summer. The new department website is arborvitaefiredept.org. Web administrator Mark Ross showed members of the fire department some of the features on the new website. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Arbor Vitae and is employed as an electrician. As a state-certified firefighter, Hunter has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, Firefighter I and II refresher, officers’ training, Learning thru Burning, hazardous materials and ventilation, and has taken many other training courses through NATC. Todd Wiesendanger has been a volunteer firefighter and First Responder for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 24 years. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed by Quality Heating. As a state-certified firefighter, Wiesendanger has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, First Responder, vehicle extrication, hazardous materials and ventilation. He is also a training officer. William Saal has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 35 years. He currently holds the rank of secretary and fire inspector. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae. As a state-certified firefighter, Saal has completed courses in Firefighter I, first aid, hazardous materials and ventilation. Julie Howard has been a volunteer for the Arbor Vitae Rescue Squad for 14 years. She is a resident of Minocqua and is employed by Dale Burbie. She has completed the First Responder course and is the record keeper for training. Ryan Gehrig has been a volunteer firefighter and First Responder for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 12 years. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed by Sedlak Chevrolet. As a state-certified firefighter, Gehrig has completed courses in Firefighter I, haz-mat awareness and emergency

vehicle operations. Ruben Wohlfiel has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 35 years. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is retired. As a state-certified firefighter, Wohlfiel has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, hazardous materials, ventilation, plus various other NATC courses and was Fireman of the Year. Jeff Hunter has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 35 years. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed by Pukall Lumber Co. As a state-certified firefighter, Hunter has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, Firefighter I and II refresher, first aid, hazardous materials, ventilation and has taken numerous Learning thru Burning courses. Wilbert “Doc” Herrmann has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 35 years. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is retired. As a state-certified firefighter, Herrmann has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, vehicle extrication, hazardous materials and ventilation, has had eight years with the ambulance rescue service, is a professional photographer, attended fire investigation-arson seminars in Eagle River and has taken numerous Learning thru Burning courses through NATC. Todd Rucinski has been a volunteer firefighter and First Responder for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for 24 years. He is the assistant rescue chief. He is a resident of Arbor Vitae and is employed by Budish Electric. As a state-certified firefighter, Rucins-

To ARBOR VITAE, Pg. 71

LAC DU FLAMBEAU Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Members of the Lac du Flambeau Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services include, front row from left, Gerald Ackley, Laura Ackley, Patty Zimmerman, Sarah Thompson, Lisa Schuman, Anita Koser and Mike Zimmerman; back row,

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Chris Mayer, Fred Writesman, Robert Schuman, Josh Brown, Art Koser and Chief Thomas Wegner. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Lac du Flambeau updates air system ___________

BY ANTHONY DREW NEWS-REVIEW ASST. EDITOR

___________

Using a $104,000 Assistance to Firefighters grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Lac du Flambeau Fire Department was able to update its entire self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) system this year. The department purchased 16 new apparatus to be worn by firefighters working in or around fires. To fill the new 4,500-pounds-per-square-inch (psi) tanks, the department upgraded to a four-bottle, 6,000-psi Cascade airrefilling station. “This replaced a little three-bottle cascade filler system that only went to 3,500 pounds which wouldn’t fill our new bottles,” said Fire Chief Tom Wegner. “We were running 3,000-pound bottles before and you couldn’t fill them up quick enough.” With the cascade system, the department purchased a two-bottle explosion-proof fill station with remote valves and gauges, according to Wegner. In addition, Lac du Flambeau re-

placed its old breathing air compressor with a new 6,000-psi model using some grant money and funds from the annual raffle and pancake breakfast fundraiser. “We threw another $18,000 into the compressor to update it,” said Wegner. “Everything’s been updated.” Wegner added that the Cascade filling station will provide easier, more fluent filling of air tanks while the SCBAs will supply firefighters with the proper gear to go in and fight fires. In 2009, the department took delivery of a 2009 triple combination pumper, an engine that includes a compressed-air foam system and other modern fire-fighting features. The busiest department in Vilas County has a second station off Highway F, south of the downtown business district, which is where the new Pierce/Freightliner unit is housed. The town’s fire department and ambulance crew answers about 150 fire calls and more than 700 ambulance calls in the community every year, more than any other in the county. Wegner, a 40-year fire service veteran, said the engine is outfitted with

new hose, adapters, chain saw, generator, positive pressure fan, cord reels, portable lights and special fire-fighting nozzles for applying foam to fires. “All of this equipment was purchased with funds raised from the year’s raffle and pancake breakfast,” said Wegner. He said the cost of the new engine was $297,000 and it was delivered in February 2009. Wegner was with the Sussex Fire Department from 1971 to 1996, having attained the rank of assistant chief. He has been with Lac du Flambeau since 1997, and was assistant chief prior to taking over as chief for the retiring Paul Harris. Also in 2009, the department received an Assistance to Firefighters Grant for the purchase of new turnout equipment for every firefighter. This consists of coats, pants, boots, helmets, gloves, flashlights, hoods and accountability tags. The total amount of the grant was $68,970. That same year, Lac du Flambeau bought two new semiautomatic defibrillators, one for each ambulance, paid for with fundraiser money. The fire department also received

an Assistance to Firefighters Grant in October 2006 in the amount of $154,000 to help with the purchase of a 3,000-gallon water tanker. This vehicle is a 2008 Freightliner M112 tandem-axle truck with a 3,000-gallon stainless-steel-wrapped poly tank. The vehicle was built by U.S. Tanker in Burlington for a total price of $187,000. The department also added a 3,000-gallon portable tank and a 500gallons-per-minute (gpm) portable pump, purchased with funds from the yearly raffle and other fundraisers. Wegner also added that he would like to thank the Lac du Flambeau Police Department for all the help it has provided. “They respond to almost every fire and ambulance call and offer all the help they can,” said Wegner. “And if they aren’t there, it only takes us asking one time and they will show up right away.” Members of the fire department and the emergency medical technicians (EMTs) expressed their gratitude for the help of the Lac du FlamTo LAC DU FLAMBEAU, Pg. 64

LAC DU FLAMBEAU Page 64

Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Lac du Flambeau FROM PAGE 63

beau Police Department. Other equipment With a high number of emergency runs, the department needs reliable, up-to-date equipment. In 2005, the Lac du Flambeau Fire Department purchased and installed a vehicle exhaust system for both stations. Wegner said the system hooks to all the exhaust pipes and starts when the vehicle is started and disconnects itself as the vehicle leaves the building. The contaminated exhaust is collected and filtered out the roof of the station. In addition to financial assistance from grants, the department also raises money through fundraisers. The department has a yearly raffle, as well as a pancake breakfast and open house in October. With the money generated from fundraisers, the department was able to purchase a thermalimaging camera to help find hot spots in buildings. The department has a brush truck outfitted with all the equipment necessary to fight woodland fires, and it also funded two ambulances with revenues from ambulance calls. The department also has a Pierce/Freightliner FL80 pumper, which carries 1,000 gallons of water. The department also has a rescue vehicle which is fully equipped with medical supplies, rescue/extrication tools, a Cascade air system, rescue tools and a 10,000-watt generator. The department additionally owns and operates a rescue snowmobile with a custom-made sled that makes rides safer and more comfortable on the trails for injured patients. Because of the equipment and training, the department carries a Class 7 rating. An agreement for automatic aid with Woodruff and the department’s tanker capacities enabled the department to move toward a better rating. Wegner said the better rating has resulted in lower insurance costs for homeowners and business owners. The department The Lac du Flambeau Fire Department and Ambulance Service continues to focus on training. Fire department personnel took numerous courses on terrorism and hazardous materials through Nicolet Area Technical College in Rhinelander during 2007. In addition, most members of the department are trained in water and ice rescue and motor vehicle extrication. Besides training, the department focuses on recruiting new members. Station One in Lac du Flambeau

Lac du Flambeau firefighter Art Koser shows off the department’s new air system, which includes 16 new breathing apparatus. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

houses engine No. 1, two tankers, two brush trucks, one ambulance, one rescue van and one support vehicle. The building has eight bays for parking vehicles as well as a training classroom and four offices. Station Two on Highway F houses engine No. 2, a 2,900-gallon tanker, one ambulance and the rescue boat in the winter. The department uses the second station as first out for the south and east side of Lac du Flambeau and second out for any other fire. The fire department members follow: Thomas Wegner is the fire chief and has served the Sussex Fire Department for 26 years and the Lac du Flambeau Fire Department and Ambulance Service for 16 years and is certified in Firefighter III. He has completed training in electrical hazard response, haz-mat response, incident command, ladder truck operations, methodology, fire instructor, LP gas, fire investigation, cold-water rescue, certified Wisconsin fire inspector and advanced vehicle extrication and he is EMT certified. Gerald Ackley of Lac du Flambeau currently holds the rank of department captain. He was titled Firefighter of the Year in Vilas County in 1991, and has been a firefighter for 40 years and an ambulance driver for 38

years. He is certified as a First Responder and in surface ice rescue. He has taken courses in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), Firefighter I and II, hazardous materials and LP gas fires equipment. He is also the maintenance officer. He is self-employed. Paul Harris, who has been with the department for 34 years, retired as fire chief in 2008 after 15 years of service. He is a nationally registered EMT-D-E and a state-certified firefighter. He has taken emergency driving, surface ice rescue, incident command and fire investigation. He is retired. Fred Writesman of Lac du Flambeau has been with the department for 21 years and is a state-certified firefighter. He is a department captain. He has completed courses in incident command, surface ice rescue, basic life support, vehicle extrication and rescue, fire investigation, water rescue and is a First Responder. He also does vehicle and station maintenance for the department and is employed by Pukall Lumber Co. Laura Ackley has been a member of the department for 14 years and has completed both Firefighter I and Firefighter II. She is trained as an EMT-D-A Airway Epinephrine. Judy Wegner of Lac du Flambeau has been with the department for 12 years, but has 23 years of experience

on the Sussex Fire Department as an EMT and firefighter. Her training includes Firefighter I and EMT-D-E. She owns Wegner’s Lazy Days Resort and drives a school bus for Lakeland Area Bus Service. Mike Zimmerman of Lac du Flambeau has been with the department for 12 years. He is a certified Firefighter I and EMT and currently holds the rank of lieutenant. Patricia Zimmerman of Lac du Flambeau has been an EMT for 10 years. She is employed by the Lac du Flambeau tribe. George Thompson has been with the fire department for 11 years. He has experience and training in Firefighter I and II, advanced auto extrication, terrorism/biohazard, coldwater rescue and is Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) trained. He is employed by the Lac du Flambeau tribe and currently holds the rank of lieutenant. Jeremy Wegner of Minocqua has been a firefighter for 10 years. He is a certified Firefighter I, with ice rescue and wildland fire training. He is employed by The Beacons. David Kasprzyk Jr. of Lac du Flambeau has been with the fire department for nine years. He is trained in Firefighter I, vehicle extrication rescue, ice rescue, pumper operations, advanced pumping and as a First Responder. He is employed by Dolson. Christopher Mayer has been with the fire department for nine years. He has 12 years of experience as a firefighter for Bo di Lac. He is the owner of Crickets in Lac du Flambeau and currently holds the rank of assistant chief. Julia Dionne has been with the department for 10 years as an EMT and a firefighter. She has completed NREMT-B, entry-level Firefighter I and entry-level Firefighter II training. She is a resident of Lac du Flambeau. Richard Tabobondung has been with the fire department for eight years. He has taken the advanced driving course, advanced auto extrication, Firefighter I and II and is RIT trained. He has completed EMT training. Lisa Schuman has been an EMT for seven years. She works at Lac du Flambeau Indian Child Welfare. Alicia Thompson has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II and cold-water rescue for the department and is employed by the Vilas County Department of Social Services. She is a resident of Lac du Flambeau. John Melzer has been a member of the department for seven years and has completed training in Firefighter I and Firefighter II, advanced extraction, cold-water rescue, thermal-imagTo LAC DU FLAMBEAU, Pg. 71

WINCHESTER Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Members of the Winchester Fire Department include, front row from left, Sulo Wainio, Ginger Brousil, Renee Melzer, Bill Shober, Joan Wainio, Chris Wendt and John Melzer; back row, Dick Smith, Matt Schmidt, Bill Sell, Don Melzer, Brad Du-

Page 65

ranso, Ty Rayala and Bryan Klug. In the background is the Polaris Ranger XP and trailer used for trail rescues. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Winchester equips trail rescue rig Department also gets DNR grant for gear ___________

BY GARY RIDDERBUSCH NEWS-REVIEW EDITOR

___________

The Winchester Fire Department beefed up its remote rescue capabilities by equipping its Polaris Ranger XP with multiple slide-in units and traction options. The Ranger now features both allterrain tires and snow tracks, allowing for trail rescues anytime of the year and in nearly any weather conditions. “The vehicle was purchased in 2009 and we added a new trailer early in 2010, giving the department a complete trail rescue package,” said Fire Chief William “Bill” Sell. The Ranger’s rear-cargo area features the option of two slide-in units. One unit includes a water/foam tank that can be used in the spring, summer and fall to battle brush fires. A second slide-in unit can be installed in the winter and used for pa-

tient transport when people may become injured on a trail or lake. “We have doors that can be installed on the rig in the winter, so it becomes fully enclosed,” said Sell. The department also has a rescue trailer that can be pulled behind the Ranger for trail rescues in the summer or fall. The entire unit is hauled on a long trailer that is hooked up to the department’s rescue truck. With the tracks and slide-in units, Sell said the department has close to $26,000 in the specialized rescue vehicle. The Winchester Fire Department also received a $4,000 cost-share grant from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for much-needed equipment. With the grant, the department was able to purchase about $8,000 worth of gear, including a Honda portable pump, 1,500 feet of 1inch hose, nozzle adapters and strainers. The department also installed

seven dry water hydrants in the town. The hydrants were installed along lake edges in areas of higher population. “Those people having a business, home or cottage within 1,000 feet of the hydrants can receive a break on their homeowners insurance,” said Sell. The eventual goal of the department, according to Sell, is to lower the insurance rates for homeowners by achieving a Class 8 fire rating. Training was a priority for the department in 2010. Training sessions included practice in vehicle extrication, wildland fire attack, water supply and pump operations, off-road rescues, communication and global positioning system training and also interdepartmental training with Manitowish Waters Fire Co. and emergency medical services (EMS). Sell said these exercises helped prepare the department for emergency incidents.

“Training is an important part of this department, as it allows the veterans to freshen up their skills and learn new equipment while the new recruits can see how things are done so everyone is prepared when a true emergency takes place,” he said. Other equipment In 2009, the Winchester Fire Department purchased a new rescue truck from Marion. The truck features a 2009 Fab 20foot body on a 2009 Peterbilt Model 335 truck body with a 360-horsepower Paccar engine. It also is equipped with a walk-in body and a Cascade fill station for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) bottles. There is storage space for 20 air bottles and seating for seven firefighters. Sell said a command desk, refrigerator, interior storage cabinets and an opening to enter the operator’s comTo WINCHESTER, Pg. 66

WINCHESTER Page 66

Oct. 12, 2011

Winchester FROM PAGE 65

partment are included in the truck body. The rescue truck is equipped with a front bumper extension with a toolbox, a Hannay hydraulic hose reel, an Amkus power unit to operate two hydraulic rescue tools, tire chains and floor-mounted slide-out trays for easy tool access. The truck, with equipment, cost $290,000 and was paid for by the town. It also carries air rescue bags and blocking, stabilizing struts, an inflatable rescue boat, ice and water rescue equipment and a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) bag. In 2007, the department received a new ambulance with more overhead room and storage space. Ambulance director Ginger Brousil said the ambulance was purchased with money from an anonymous donation and fundraisers, along with $20,000 from the town. Five years ago, Winchester used a federal grant to purchase 24 complete sets of turnout gear, 12 new SCBAs, a $15,000 thermal-imaging camera and rescue air bags. Assistant Fire Chief John Melzer said the thermal-imaging camera is a state-of-the-art piece of equipment that is incredibly accurate at detecting any heat in walls, attics or any hidden places. “It has been extremely useful for finding hot spots in chimney fires,” he said. The oversized camera has a large, pivoting viewfinder that allows firefighters to look under beds or over cabinets with ease. Sell said the grant-writing team also was awarded a second grant that provided the department with a new rescue truck. He said the department also purchased three cold-water rescue suits, ropes and other gear in response to 13 department members completing cold-water rescue training. He said two of them are now certified instructors. “Along with Firefighter I and II, many of the members have had training in cold-water rescue, extrication, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), imaging camera and advanced SCBA as well as pump engineer and operations,” said Sell. Winchester’s main pumper/tanker is a 2004 Pierce built on a Peterbilt chassis. The $275,000 rig came equipped with a compressed-air foam system, an apparatus that will cut down on water use during a fire. It includes a 3,000-gallon tank and a 1,500-gallons-per-minute (gpm) pump.

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News Fire hall addition Winchester completed a 44- by 40foot addition to the 14-year-old fire station in 2001, offering a separate two-bay area for the department’s ambulance, space for emergency medical technician (EMT) equipment and room for a washer, dryer and showers. Sell, who has been with the department for 32 years, said the offices in the addition provide a separate room for storage of confidential EMT records and a room for exercise equipment. The department also upgraded one piece of fire-fighting equipment in 2001, replacing a 1978 supply truck with a 1996 vehicle. Sell said the Ford F-350 truck has a 1-ton capacity, complete with a utility box and four-wheel drive capabilities. It is used to transport pumps, gasoline, hoses and up to three firefighters. The EMT squad now has four defibrillator units — three portables and one in the ambulance. With the county’s E911 system in place, Sell said a computer modem links Winchester to the county by computer and makes transmission of written dispatches possible. “Having professional dispatching 24 hours a day, provided by the Vilas County Sheriff ’s Department, has greatly improved dispatching and response times,” Sell said. The following is a brief overview of each member: William “Bill” Sell, a 32-year department member, is the fire chief and an EMT. He has been an EMT since 1978. He is self-employed as an excavator. John Melzer, the assistant fire chief, is a firefighter for the Winchester, Manitowish Waters and Lac du Flambeau departments and has completed both Firefighter I and Firefighter II training. He’s been trained in thermal-imaging camera use, advanced extrication, wildland firefighting, advanced SCBA and pump operations. He works at Lac du Flambeau Chippewa Housing Authority. Ginger Brousil is the ambulance director, a certified EMT and an entry-level firefighter. She has completed thermal-imaging training and cold-water rescue. She has been with the department for seven years and is employed by the town of Winchester. Don Melzer Jr. is in his 10th year with Winchester Fire and Rescue. He has completed Firefighter I and coldwater rescue training. He works at Chicago Pub. He serves as a firefighter for Manitowish Waters as well. Daniel Meyer is in his 10th year with Winchester Fire and Rescue. He retired from the Arlington Heights, Ill., fire department after 28 years of service. He has been a firefighter, instructor, fire investigator and officer. Richard “Dick” Smith has been

Winchester firefighter Sulo Wainio checks supplies in the fire department’s rescue truck, including a Scott air pack. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

with the department for nine years. He is employed by Northern Capital Insurance. Bryan Klug, department captain, has been with the department for seven years. He has completed entrylevel Firefighter I and II training, advanced extrication, cold-water rescue and thermal-imaging training. He is employed by CK Builders. Paul Coan has been a firefighter for seven years. He is trained in Firefighter I and II, extrication, cold-water rescue, wildland fire, CPR and thermal imaging. Jim Cayo, an EMT and firefighter, has been with the department for six years. He is a stay-at-home parent. Bill Shober has been with the fire department for five years. He is a resident of Manitowish Waters and is employed by Little Bohemia Lodge. Sulo Wainio, a five-year member, has completed extrication training and is a safety officer. He is enrolled in Firefighter I training. He is an owner of Thirty Point Trading Post and Tap. Joan T. Wainio also is a fifth-year firefighter with the department. She is trained in extrication. She is enrolled in Firefighter I training. She is an owner of Thirty Point Trading Post and Tap. Renee Melzer has been a Winchester EMS member for four years. She is secretary of emergency services.

She is employed by Marshfield Clinic. Kevin Brousil is an ambulance driver for Winchester. Mathias Schmidt, of Mercer, has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II training, and is in his third year with the department. He also serves as a firefighter for Manitowish Waters. He has completed EVOC motor pump operator II training. He is trained in advanced auto extrication, landing zone safety, haz-mat operations, basic RIT and is wildland fire and CPR-certified. He is employed at Little Star Garage. Tyre Rayala, a resident of Manitowish Waters, is in his third year as a firefighter for the town of Winchester. He also serves on the Manitowish Waters department. He has taken Firefighter I and II, hazardous materials training, advanced extrication, wildland fire training and EMT-Basic training. Natasha Johnson, a resident of Manitowish Waters, is in her second year with the department. She is employed by Little Bohemia Lodge. Eric Gatford, a second-year member of the department, is trained in Firefighter I and II. New recruits Christine Wendt and Brad Durango are presently enrolled in the entry-level firefighter class. Both are from Winchester and both are self-employed.

BOULDER JUNCTION Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

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Boulder Junction purchases snomo trailer New powered cot helps EMTs on emergency calls ___________

BY JUSTIN KNITT NEWS-REVIEW INTERN

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The Boulder Junction Fire Department continued to improve its ability to fight fires and assist people with the purchase of a new snowmobile trailer and powered cot. The new trailer will allow firefighters to transport their rescue snowmobile to and from accident sites more efficiently. The department also bought a powered cot for use in the ambulance. The new cot will allow emergency medical technicians (EMT) to lift patients using less manpower and with less risk of dropping the patient. The department purchased the pneumatic cot for $12,000. Firefighters from the Boulder Junction station also participated in the Nicolet Area Technical College (NATC)-run hybrid vehicle training in 2011. Firefighters and EMTs learned how to properly extinguish and rescue individuals from hybrid vehicle crashes. Boulder Junction firefighters are making use of a new pumper/engine that was purchased last year. The $300,000 rescue vehicle carries a compressed-air foam system to maximize fire-fighting effectiveness with less water. The 2010 Freightliner engine, built by Jefferson Fire in Middleton, includes Rosenbauer accessories, such as a pumping system that can turn out 1,500 gallons per minute (gpm), enough to sustain five hoses. It includes a four-person cab and storage for extrication equipment. It’s a smaller unit for responding to vehicle accidents but will roll on every call, according to Fire Chief John Titel. “It allowed us to eliminate one vehicle in the department as well as help us maintain our Class 7 ISO rating,” Titel said. In 2009, the department purchased a Ford F-250 rescue truck that carries an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), extrication equipment, air bags and stabilizer jacks. It also pulls trailers that transport the department’s rescue snowmobile and boat. Two years ago, 10 members of the crew completed Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) training in conjunction with firefighters from Conover, St. Germain, Arbor Vitae and Lac du Flambeau. RIT training focuses on rapid intervention techniques for the removal of

Boulder Junction Fire Department personnel displaying the new ambulance stretcher include, from left, EMT Jonathan Dobbs; firefighter/EMT Lee Hoffman, assistant chief; firefight-

downed firefighters or fire victims from a burning structure. The training includes work on techniques such as bridging walls, conducting basement rescues and ladder bailouts. Many of the department’s members joined with Manitowish Waters firefighters three years ago for wildland fire suppression training, which was conducted by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The department made big strides on equipment needs in 2007, when it took delivery of both a new ambulance and a new tanker. The department also added a storage shed to its facility on Highway M in Boulder Junction. The ambulance was purchased by the department for $107,000 at no cost to the town’s taxpayers. The Ford E-450 Med-Tech ambulance replaced a 2000 Braun ambulance, which was traded in for $28,000. The department also purchased a 2007 Sterling chassis for $89,000 which was converted into a tanker truck. The truck was equipped with the department’s 3,200-gallon stainless tank that was on a 1982 truck. Finally, the department constructed a 36- by 48-foot storage shed at a

er/EMT James Hanson; firefighter/EMT Paul Newberg; firefighter/EMT Matt Reuss; and firefighter/EMT Wayne Muck. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

cost of $21,000 in March of 2007. The storage facility also houses the department’s rescue boat, snowmobile, ATV and Rescue 2 pickup truck which pulls all the rescue equipment. While having up-to-date equipment is important for the success of any fire department, so is staying current in rescue training. With this in mind, the department completed water-rescue training in 2006. According to the chief, the department has two training sessions a month for the firefighters and EMTs. Titel noted that the Boulder Junction Fire Department is always looking for new firefighters and EMTs. The department’s annual chicken barbecue, held the Saturday before the Fourth of July, is the main fundraiser for the department. For water rescues, the department is equipped with an 18-foot Alumacraft boat with a 40-horsepower Mercury electronic fuel-injected outboard and trailer. The 2005 model includes steps on the stern and carries several pieces of water-rescue equipment. Also in 2005, the department purchased a $114,000 brush truck built

by Custom Fab & Body of Tigerton. The purchase was made possible by a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant, which required just a 10% local share. Titel said the brush truck can carry 300 gallons of water, which is enhanced by a compressed-air foam system capable of delivering three different types of foam for various fire-fighting applications. “It can be used for assistance with structure fires, to foam down and protect accessory buildings and for fighting wildland fires,” he said. “We could go in ahead of a forest fire and cover a structure with foam, which would protect it for an hour or more.” He said the truck carries wildland fire-fighting equipment such as hand tools, bladder bags, 1,000 feet of 1-inch forest fire hose and 300 feet of 11/2inch line. It has a four-person cab. Search and rescue capabilities are another asset of the Boulder Junction department, which became field-ready for such activities in 2004. Myk Hensley is part of Headwaters Search and Rescue and has helped the departTo BOULDER JUNCTION, Pg. 68

BOULDER JUNCTION Page 68

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Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Boulder Junction FROM PAGE 67

ment to get set up for it. The department’s commitment to continuous improvement has made it possible for Boulder Junction to increase its ISO rating from Class 8 to Class 7, saving property owners money on their homeowners insurance. “ISO looks at equipment, recordkeeping, manpower, water-carrying abilities — everything,” Titel said. “It’s a real step forward for the department.” The department’s 2000 Welch engine helped Boulder Junction get the better rating. The engine has a 1,250gpm pump and is equipped with two types of foam. The department also purchased a Hurst 56-ton three-air bag system for the truck. The lift bags can be inflated with the air packs used by firefighters for interior attacks. The department also owns a thermal-imaging camera to locate fires within walls and people trapped in a burning building, and a water supply truck to fill tankers at lakes. Most of Boulder Junction’s vehicles are kept in a 7,600-square-foot fire building complete with training room, offices, rest room and seven vehicle stalls with separate doors. The following is a rundown on individual firefighters: John Titel, the department’s fire chief, has been a volunteer for the fire department for 29 years and an EMT for 27 years. He is the department’s fire investigator. Titel has completed courses in Firefighter I and II and numerous Learning thru Burning courses, fire ground command, arson investigation and mod 1. He also has completed hazardous materials technician training. He is employed at Ahlborn Equipment. James A. Hanson has been a firefighter and EMT in Boulder Junction for five years, but has 28 total years of firefighter service in other communities. He has associate degrees in police and fire science, is a certified emergency manager, EMTB, Firefighter I and II and fire science instructor. He is employed by the Boulder Junction Police Department. Linda Thayer has been a volunteer for the Boulder Junction Fire Department for six years. She is an EMT. Doug Bailey has been a volunteer with the department for 37 years and has been an EMT for the ambulance service for 35 years. He is a resident of Boulder Junction and is employed by Northwoods Personally Yours. As a firefighter, Bailey has completed courses in Firefighter I and II, mod 1, search and rescue, ice

Boulder Junction Fire Department personnel standing in front of the ambulance include, from left, firefighter Jim Johnson; firefighter/EMT Paul Newberg; firefighter Jason Maurer; EMT Jonathan Dobbs; firefighter/EMT James Han-

diver specialist, advanced open-water diving, state EMT, hazardous materials, DNR-related training, practice burns through NATC and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification. Jim Galloway, a 24-year veteran of the department, has Firefighter I training and is a driver-operator. He is certified in surface ice rescue. He is the Vilas County emergency management director. Myk Hensley, also a 24-year veteran, is a driver-operator and is certified in surface ice rescue. Hensley is trained in human search and rescue techniques. He is one of three assistant chiefs in the department. Paul Newberg, of Boulder Junction, is a 20-year veteran as a statecertified firefighter and an EMT. He is employed by Spirit Medical Transport. Bill Saal serves as fire inspector for Boulder Junction, as well as Woodruff, Lac du Flambeau, Lake Tomahawk and Arbor Vitae. Jonathan Dobbs has been an EMT with the department for 15 years and owns a resort on Trout Lake. Dan Potrykus has served on the department for 11 years. He owns Boulder Junction Motor Lodge. Megan Galasel has been a volunteer EMT for the Boulder Junction department for six years. She is an EMT-B and is employed by CareTakers LLC. She is a resident of Boulder Junction. Jim Fragassi, an assistant chief, has been a volunteer firefighter for the Boulder Junction Fire Depart-

son; firefighter/EMT Lee Hoffman, assistant chief; firefighter James Fragassi, assistant chief; firefighter/EMT Matt Reuss; firefighter/EMT Wayne Muck; and firefighter Dan Potrykus. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

ment for five years. He is a resident of Boulder Junction and is a retired firefighter from Winnetka, Ill. Steven Bartling of Manitowish Waters has been a volunteer for the Boulder Junction Fire Department for six years. He is a firefighter and EMT. He is trained in ice rescue and vehicle extrication. Jessie Titel has been a volunteer EMT for six years and a firefighter for five. She has completed paramedic training at North Central Technical College in Wausau. She is a certified firefighter. Lee Hoffman, an assistant chief, has been with the department for seven years. He has completed entrylevel Firefighter I and II and is also cross-trained as an EMT. He is the owner of Granary Restaurant in Boulder Junction. Jim Johnson has been with the department for six years. He has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II. He is the owner of Boulder Bear Motor Lodge. Theo Indermuehle has been a firefighter and EMT for the department for six years. Steve Wheeler, a firefighter for four years, has completed entry-level Firefighter I training. He also has been trained in wildfire suppression. He is employed by The Outdoorsman. Eric Johnson has been with the department for four years. He has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II training and wildland firefighting. He is the editor/publisher of the Boulder Junction-based FYI Northwoods News.

Matthew Reuss has been with the department for five years. He has completed Firefighter I, Firefighter II, wildland firefighting and EMT training. He also serves as department secretary. He is employed by Reuss Construction Co. Wayne Muck has been with the department for four years. He is certified in Firefighter I and EMT. He also serves on the Presque Isle Fire Department and is self-employed. Jason Maurer is serving his second year with the department and has entry-level Firefighter I training. He is employed by Knitt’s Hardware in Boulder Junction. Other firefighters who are in their fourth year with the department and have completed entry-level Firefighter I training include Tom Whitma, who is employed by Gabert Construction; Troy Beda, who is employed by Beda’s Mobile Repair; Joshua Thompson, who is employed by Boulder Marine Center; Jeremiah Mabie, who is employed by Trout Creek Cranberry Co.; and Steve Duba, co-owner of Boulder Junction Bakery. Other members of the department include EMTs Susan Donato and Ken Raupac, both of whom have served for six years.

Thanks for All You Do Boulder Junction Fire Department SPONSORED BY

COONTAIL CLOTHING Boulder Junction

MANITOWISH WATERS Oct. 12, 2011

Courtesy of the News-Review and The Three Lakes News

Members of the Manitowish Waters Fire Co. firefighters and EMTs include, front row from left, Don Melzer, Bryan Klug, Bill King, Beth Kebl, Renee Melzer, Heather Bauers and Debbie Skrobot; back row, David Krembs, Mathias Schmidt,

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Skip Skrobot, Don Melzer Jr., Chris Sindberg, Steven Bartling, Kenneth Deakin, Bob Skrobot, B.J. Bauers, Harry Kaczmarek, Lisa Behnke and Daryll Behnke. --NEWS-REVIEW PHOTO

Manitowish Waters Fire Co. prepares for 9/11 remembrance with new mural ___________

BY ANTHONY DREW NEWS-REVIEW ASST. EDITOR

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A mural on the side of one of its trucks in remembrance of Sept. 11, 2001, is the highlight of this year’s purchases at Manitowish Waters Fire Co. Fire Chief Leonard “Skip” Skrobot said the mural was done earlier this year by Calm Water Solutions out of Manitowish Waters. “He’s one of the guys in town here, and he does it for a living,” said Skrobot. “He did the mural for us and gave us a banner to hang on the other side of the truck. He did a really great job.” The department displayed the work publicly at its weekly Music in the Park event Sept. 11 in Manitowish Waters. “That day we supplied sandwiches and beverages and thanked the town for their support,” said Skrobot. The department also hosted its 15th annual motorcycle raffle Sept. 25, which included an open house at the fire station. The fundraiser event featured sandwiches, beverages and a Green Bay football game. Manitowish Waters began discussing plans and specifications for a new rescue pumper truck last year.

The chief said these plans are still in the works, although no decisions have been made as numbers continue to be discussed. Skrobot said he is unsure when the actual purchase is going to take place, but indicated it’s department policy to plan in advance for large purchases. “This rescue pumper will be a great addition to our company’s growing arsenal of fire trucks and equipment,” said Skrobot. In 2009, the fire department took delivery of a 3,000-gallon tanker truck, a Marque-made ambulance and a heavy-duty all-terrain vehicle (ATV). Skrobot said the $155,000 tanker, manufactured by Stainless and Repair Inc. in Marshfield, was purchased using revenues the fire company received from leasing its services to the town. “We are one of only four fire companies in the state of Wisconsin that are independent, nonprofit corporations,” said Skrobot. “The beauty of not being a division of town government is that we can eliminate most of the politics.” The tanker is a 2007 Sterling Preemission diesel that replaces two smaller tankers of early 1970s vintage. Skrobot said no town money was used to purchase the ambulance, with

the $115,000 raised solely through donations and company fundraisers, such as the annual Harley-Davidson motorcycle raffle. Taxpayer-supplemented funds did help with the purchase of a $12,000 four-wheel drive ATV, along with a thermal-imaging camera and a multigas detection meter. Skrobot said the camera allows firefighters to find people trapped in heavy smoke more quickly or detect heat inside walls and ceilings. He said the meter can be used to detect four kinds of gases, including carbon monoxide, propane, methane and oxygen. Skrobot said community support of the fire company is a huge reason for its success, both in updating equipment and attracting firefighters. Joining the company within the last two years were Renee Melzer and Don Melzer. “We get a lot of support for our fundraisers, including our largest, which is the raffling of a HarleyDavidson motorcycle,” he said. “We draw a winner in September every year.” Manitowish Waters, one of the oldest fire departments in the county at 53 years, is also one of the best equipped. In addition to two modern engines (2004 and 1994), it has a 2009

tanker, a 2008 first-response truck and an equipment van. The department received a $2,825 matching grant from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in 2008 to purchase new backpacks, forestry hose, forestry coveralls and helmets. Most of the members also went through wildfire training that spring, taught by DNR firefighters. Department members, both individually and as a group, improve their training every year. Recently, the firefighters have concentrated time on cross training with the Winchester Fire Department. In doing this, both teams are ready to work together in a large emergency incident. In 2007, six firefighters were trained in water rescue and three were scuba rated. They are equipped with cold-water dry suits and an inflatable rescue boat. Other equipment The department made use of a Homeland Security grant to purchase a first-response truck, turnout gear and new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) in 2006. The 1-ton Chevrolet pickup is equipped with 300 gallons of water and foam that can maximize the effecTo MANITOWISH, Pg. 70

MANITOWISH WATERS Page 70

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Manitowish FROM PAGE 69

tiveness of the water supply tenfold. The 2006 truck also is equipped with a 500-gallons-per-minute pump and both 2-inch and 4-inch hose. Skrobot said they received 17 full sets of turnout gear and a dozen air tanks, masks and communication equipment. “We purchased a special radio attachment that goes with the face masks, allowing firefighters to communicate better during interior attacks,” he said. “The additional feature fits our Motorola radios.” The Manitowish Waters fleet includes a pumper/tanker with compressed-air foam. Skrobot said the state-of-the-art unit features a severe-duty Freightliner chassis, has 3,000 gallons of tank space and includes some of the newest pumping technology available today. For the first time, he said, the truck carries the traditional water-foam mixture being used almost universally by fire departments, along with the new-wave compressed-air foam system. “Compressed-air foam breaks the surface tension of water, seeks out carbon and follows air currents in a building, just like a fire would,” said Skrobot. “It smothers and cools a fire with virtually no water damage. Hose lines are lighter because they are carrying one-half air.” The town board appropriates about $40,000 annually to finance the fire department, $14,000 of which is allocated for updating large apparatus, including fire trucks. The company also includes certified emergency medical technicians (EMTs) who operate an ambulance squad. They recently took delivery of a 2009 Marque ambulance that meets today’s standards for wider, longer emergency vehicles. About the company Manitowish Waters Fire Co. was organized under a corporate charter in 1957 and, five years later, it started the first ambulance service in Vilas County. It is financed through tax dollars, user fees, annual fundraisers, annual appeal letters and private donations. The department voted nearly a decade ago to accept stipends from

the town to reimburse firefighters and emergency medical service personnel for the time they spend responding to emergency calls. The fire company’s equipment and training allows the town to maintain a Class 8 insurance rating. Following are brief biographical sketches of department members who supplied information to this newspaper. Chief Leonard “Skip” Skrobot Jr. has been a firefighter for 46 years and is state certified. He is a self-employed carpenter. He served as the fire department’s president, vice president and assistant chief prior to being elected chief, and has served as an EMT since 1975. He is a charter member of the Northwoods Fire Prevention Committee as a fire investigator, and is currently a member of the Vilas County and state of Wisconsin fire chiefs associations. Assistant Chief Bob Skrobot, certified in Firefighter II, has served as a firefighter for 18 years and is currently the company’s vice president. A 1994 graduate of Lakeland Union High School, he is a self-employed carpenter. Secretary Debbie Skrobot has been a firefighter for 31 years and also serves as an EMT. A former secretary of the Northwoods Fire Prevention Committee, she organizes fire-prevention activities at North Lakeland Elementary School and at other youth-oriented facilities in the area. She is employed at Associated Bank in Mercer. Capt. William Dietz is a statecertified Firefighter I who has received specialized training in industrial fires, ventilation practices, incident command, strategy/tactics, auto extrication and breathing apparatus. He is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)-certified and is a member of the Northwoods Fire Prevention Committee. He is owner-operator of Dietz’s Service in Manitowish Waters. Capt. Harry Kaczmarek has been a firefighter for 40 years. Until he retired, he owned Harry’s Supermarket. He has completed Firefighter I training and numerous fire-training classes over the years. Since his retirement, he spends time serving the department by keeping the trucks clean and serviced and maintaining the fire hall. Capt. Kenneth Deakin has been a firefighter for 58 years, including his tour of service as captain firefighter

Manitowish Waters Fire Company sponsored by DIETZ’S PHILLIPS 66 Manitowish Waters

and paramedic in Milwaukee prior to his retirement. Since then, he has served as a volunteer on the Manitowish Waters department and is considered one of its most valuable and experienced members. Ambulance Capt. Daryll Behnkehas been an EMT for 10 years. He is trained in epinephrine, defibrillation and nonvisualized airway. He is responsible for keeping all EMTs aware of developments in emergency medical training, certification and trends. He also evaluates the status of the ambulance and its supplies. He is self-employed, and is a part-time school bus driver for the North Lakeland area school transportation system. Bill King has served the department during the summer months for the last 11 years. He spends his winters in Racine, where he worked as a police officer for 31 years before his retirement, and as a volunteer EMT and firefighter on the Sturtevant Fire Department for 15 years. David Krembs has been a firefighter for 23 years and has completed Firefighter I and other fire-fighting training programs. He is employed at Coon’s Franklin Lodge in Arbor Vitae. Robert Polic is state-certified in Firefighter I and II. He completed his EMT training at Nicolet Area Technical College (NATC) and is a nationally registered EMT. He is a self-employed consultant. Lisa Behnke has been an EMT for the ambulance squad for eight years and is the company’s new treasurer, replacing the retired Dorothy Krembs. She completed her training at NATC and is a nationally registered EMT. She is a school bus driver for North Lakeland Elementary. Beth Kebl, a 10-year veteran and former vice president, is trained in entry-level Firefighter I and II along with ice rescue, wildland fire and extrication. She is a self-employed saleswoman of industrial chemicals. Bryan Klug is a six-year company member and former director who has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II. He has training in cold-water rescue and extrication. He is employed by CK Builders. Mathias Schmidt, of Mercer, who completed his entry-level Firefighter I

and II, has been with the company for six years. He has completed EVOC motor pump operator II training. He is a former director. He is trained in advanced auto extrication, landing zone safety, haz-mat operations, basic Rapid Intervention Team and is wildland fire and CPR-certified. He is employed at Little Star Garage. In his seventh year with the company is Richard Indermuehle, who has completed Firefighter I training and is employed at Alder Lake Cranberry Co. He is a company director. Chris Sindberg, also a sevenyear department member and director, has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II along with extrication training. Steven Bartling, who is in his eighth year with the department, holds the rank of captain. He is employed at Bartling’s Manitowish Cranberry Co. Tyrel Rayala, who has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II, is also trained in advanced auto extrication and wildland fire. He has been with the department five years. He recently completed EMT training at NATC. He is employed by Northern Wisconsin Security and Sound. John Melzer, the assistant chief at Winchester and also a department member in Lac du Flambeau, is in his third year with the Manitowish Waters Fire Co. B.J. and Heather Bauers, a husband-and-wife team who own Bauers Electric and have completed entrylevel Firefighter I and II courses, are in their third year with the company. Heather recently completed training at NATC and is now a certified EMT. Don Melzer Jr. is in his second year as a firefighter for the company. He has completed Firefighter I and cold-water rescue training. Graham McFarland, in his second year with the company, has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II. He is a resident of Manitowish Waters but also serves the Winchester Fire Department. Renee Melzer served as a Manitowish Waters EMT for the past two years. Don Melzer has been a volunteer firefighter for Manitowish Waters Fire Co. for the past two years.

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First Responder, smoke diver and water and ice rescue. A.J. Burgoyne has been an engineer for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for eight years. He is employed by Schneider Construction Corp. He has RIT, pump operations and driver operator training. Stanley Lewis of Arbor Vitae has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for five years. A certified firefighter, he has completed Firefighter I and II training and is a First Responder. He is a college student. Devin Roach has been a member of the Arbor Vitae Fire Department and Rescue Squad for four years. He is a certified firefighter and has RIT certification. He is employed at Eagle Electric. Michelle Van Meter has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for four years. She lives in Arbor Vitae and is employed at S.A. Loons. She has 12 years of experience in the medical field and is a student working toward an associate degree in registered nursing. She is a First Responder and has completed entry-level Firefighter I and II.

Frank Kulpa has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for two years. He is self-employed. He has completed Firefighter I and II, and took an extrication class. Brian Dierzen has been a volunteer firefighter and First Responder for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for two years. He is employed at Danco Heating and Plumbing. He has taken entry-level Firefighter I and II and First Responder courses. Mike Bernard has been a volunteer firefighter for the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for two years. He is finishing fire-fighting and First Responder training. He has extensive dive rescue and recovery experience. Brady Butler has been with the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for two years. He has completed Firefighter I, haz-mat and RIT training. Todd Albano has been with the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for one year. He is employed at Danco Heating and Plumbing. He has his EMT license and is national registry certified. He also has fire-fighting training. Chris Woynich has been with the Arbor Vitae Fire Department for one year. He is employed at Lindgren Enclosures. He has Firefighter I and II training. Junior members include Kaitlyn Pockat and Karlie Trapp.

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Lac du Flambeau FROM PAGE 64

ing, fire inspector and wildland fire. Art Koser has been with the department for eight years. He has completed Firefighter I and II and is a certified firefighter, RIT trained and an EMT. He is employed at Lake of the Torches Casino and is a resident of Lac du Flambeau. He has been a wildland firefighter for the Bureau of Indian Affairs for four years and is studying to become a paramedic. Robert Schuman Jr. has been with the department for four years and has completed Firefighter I and Firefighter II. He is employed by Lake of the Torches Casino. Sarah Thompson is in her fourth year as a firefighter. She has completed EMT basic training and is employed by the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Historic Preservation Office. Amy Thompson is a member of the department and has completed both Firefighter I and Firefighter II. She is employed by the Lac du Flambeau tribal accounting department and is in training as a firefighter. Pamela Waterman has been an EMT for Lac du Flambeau for three years and has completed basic training courses.

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Jeanette Sharlow is in her third year as an EMT with Lac du Flambeau. She is currently employed by the Lac du Flambeau Tribe as well as Lake of the Torches Casino. Melissa Thompson has been with the department for two years. She has completed basic training as an EMT and is employed at Peter Christensen Health Center. SuAnne Vannatter, resident of Minocqua, is currently in her second year as an EMT for the department. Anita Koser, in her second year as a Lac du Flambeau EMT, has completed basic training. Leila Schuman, currently employed at Lake of the Torches Casino is in her second year as a department EMT. Bill Maki is in his second year with the department and has entrylevel firefigher training. Josh Brown has completed entrylevel firefighter training and is also in his second year with the department. Jon Wayland, new to the department this year, has 15 years of experience as a firefighter and has completed CPR training, Firefighter I, Helicopter LZ and RIT. He is employed by Lake of the Torches Casino. Gerri Batiste is also a new recruit to the fire department and has completed entry-level firefighter training.

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