Trending Topics

New Wis. fire chief revives department with EMS-focused recruitment

Port Edwards’ first responders-only program has increased membership by focusing on those who do not want firefighter training

PORT EDWARDS, Wis. — The Port Edwards Fire Department is making a comeback less than a year after mass resignations threw it into crisis, the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune reported.

To boost membership, new Fire Chief Dustin Lease introduced a first responders-only program, allowing individuals to serve exclusively in EMS without firefighter training.

Since most of the department’s calls are for ambulance services, Lease said it makes sense to welcome volunteers who are solely interested in the medical side of operations.

Less than a year ago, Port Edwards residents were uncertain about the future of their fire department after 11 members, including the fire chief, resigned due to conflicts with the Village Board.

Approximately eight months after the Port Edwards Police and Fire Commission appointed Lease as chief, the department has expanded from nine to 22 members.

Beyond recruitment, Lease has prioritized shifting the culture within the Port Edwards Fire Department, aiming to make it more inclusive and community-focused. Traditionally seen as a men’s club, he envisions a more family-friendly environment where members actively engage with the community.

To foster interest among young people, Lease plans to establish a public service club in Port Edwards schools and launch a cadet program at the fire department in partnership with John Edwards High School. Through these initiatives, he hopes to inspire high school students to consider volunteering with their local fire department.

Trending
Box Elder Deputy Mike Allred and K-9 Azula were immediately fired upon as they responded to a domestic disturbance call that killed Sgt. Lee Sorensen and Officer Eric Estrada
A $7,300 hospital-to-hospital ride prompted a Merced councilmember to push price disclosures for non-911 transports
The 10,000-sq-ft, 24/7 emergency department on U.S. 521 will offer 12 exam rooms, trauma care, imaging and lab services
El Paso and Teller counties expect $75M over 18 years to fund youth prevention and treatment, including $500K for Homeward Pikes Peak and $300K for Colorado Springs Fire’s reentry program

Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.