Hartford Fire and Rescue Chief Tony Burgard joined WTKM to discuss flooding conditions and volunteering.
Chief Burgard stepped in as chief when former Hartford Fire and Rescue Chief Paul Stephans retired in May, of 2024. Burgard previously served as the Richfield Volunteer Fire Company Chief for four years before joining Hartford's department. He served with the Richfield Fire Company for 19 years.
Burgard told WTKM that the severe weather we experienced during Severe Weather Awareness Week, April 13 to April 17 caught his attention.
"Knowing what to do when a severe weather warning is issued can help keep you and others safe. It was unique, we had back-to-back-to-back thunderstorms and other severe weather. Making people aware of what to do and how they can be prepared ahead of time is so important."
Chief Burgard says the flooding that developed from an abundance of rain causes concern.
"In some areas, like Pike Lake in Hartford and Druid Lake in Erin, the water levels are a concern as the low-lying areas drain off to the lower areas. It's important to use extreme caution. When those flood waters are rising, the current can be very misleading."
Those talented members of the department have been busy. The Hartford Fire Department covers 136 square miles. The Village of Hustisford and the Town of Hustisford are the newest coverage areas, added in 2024. With that being said, they are always looking for new members.
"We could always use good people who want to help out the community," said Burgard. "We would love to talk with you, as any surrounding fire department would. That recruitment never stops. If there is any interest in fire or EMS service, now is the time."
Out of the 65 employees who serve the Hartford Fire and Rescue Department, many of them are paid-on-call which means they have other full-time jobs and careers. Chief Burgard encourages members of the community to reach out to the department if there is an interest.
"We will always have a spot for you. All we really ask for is a number of hours every month to help out and it's based on your schedule."
11 full-time employees help when it becomes a challenge to get people in to volunteer.
It begins with a one-semester class for a firefighter or EMT. Typically, those classes start in the fall semester. Your local fire department can provide an application and an interview. Ride-along opportunities are also available.
