BDFD Chief Says Station Has Undergone Operational Changes During Coronavirus Pandemic

(Beaver Dam) Beaver Dam Fire Chief Alan Mannel says the station has had to implement several changes to their operation due to the coronavirus pandemic. In addition to all education events being cancelled, Mannel says currently the public and family members of firefighters are not permitted inside the station. He says most administrative matters are conducted in the lobby conference room and that off-duty firefighters cannot hang around the station.

All outside training and routine fire inspections have been suspended which Mannel says is concerning. He says fire prevention is a proven method and hopes to restart these activities soon depending on the guidance from the governor. Mannel says all training is conducted in-house in groups of 10 or less.

During Wednesday’s appearance on WBEV’s Community Comment, Mannel said the station is disinfected regularly along with all vital equipment and vehicles. He says they are cleaning their ambulances after every call or each morning. The station is also wiped down with a focus on areas that are commonly touched. Mannel says the station has never been cleaner.

Mannel says they are doing their best to conserve personal protective equipment but he is worried about their current levels. He adds they do have a deeper supply now than several weeks ago thanks to Dodge County obtaining some items from the Strategic National Stockpile. Mannel says on a positive note, no one within the fire department has contracted COVID-19.