(BEAVER DAM) Beaver Dam’s fire department is getting a boost as it works to bring more young people into the fire service and keep crews ready to respond.
The department will receive a $25,000 state grant to replace gear for its cadet program, part of a broader effort across Wisconsin to address a shortage of volunteer firefighters.
State safety officials say many departments are struggling to recruit and retain members. That can affect how quickly crews respond when someone calls for help.
“This is about keeping communities safe,” said Dan Hereth, secretary of the state Department of Safety and Professional Services. He said training younger firefighters now helps protect both the public and the crews who respond to emergencies.
In Beaver Dam, the funding will go toward replacing worn or outdated equipment used by cadets — typically middle and high school students learning the basics of firefighting. Updated gear allows those students to train more safely and build skills they can carry into future service.
State leaders say programs like this are becoming more important as departments work to avoid staffing shortages. April Hammond, who helps oversee fire safety programs for the state, said losing firefighters can quickly strain a department and slow response times.
The Beaver Dam award is one of four grants announced in the latest round of funding. Other recipients include programs in Richfield, Osceola and Ripon.
The state program offers up to $25,000 to help fire departments, schools and technical colleges start or expand youth firefighter programs, often in partnership with local schools to give students hands-on experience.
