Wind Lake seeks new volunteers

The Wind Lake Volunteer Fire Co. (WLVFC) has a Junior Response Team (JRT) program in place for young adults, ages 14 to 18. Recruitment for the upcoming JRT program is now in progress.

The Department is also recruiting for adult EMT and Fire Fighter positions. Members respond to emergencies, as well as work on projects and committees.

“We think you will enjoy being part of our family and will experience camaraderie and fun that are hard to surpass,” said Chief Rob Robins.

Training and gear are provided by WLVFC.

Junior Response Team

The JRT program is a hands-on program that exposes members to firsthand experience through firefighting training and ride-along calls during actual emergency responses. Members learn the skills needed to prepare them for firefighter or emergency medical services careers, as well as emergency call protocols, firefighting policies and procedures, proper equipment usage and other skills.

Additionally, JRT members receive advice on how to prepare and position themselves for a successful career in the field of Fire and Emergency Service.

WLFVC proudly recognizes Carlyjo King as the first graduate of its JRT program. King also achieved her EMT license and Firefighter Certification during her JRT term, which is quite an accomplishment. She now serves on the department as a probationary member.

King recently talked about her experience: “I joined the program at age 16, during the blood drive and loved it!” she recalled.

During trainings and maintenance, she learned about the equipment and the job, which led King to take EMT basic.

“It was such a big help to be on a department and go through school. All my friends and adults in my life looked up to me and thought a lot of me because of what I was doing.

The JRT program is a fantastic experience, she added.

“I was allowed to assist on fire and rescue calls. It felt good to be able to help the people in the community I lived in. It was so nice to meet other kids my age with a similar interest and goals. It didn’t take me long to realize that JRTs are a very important part of the team because they do the little jobs to assist the members with the big jobs.”

Wind Lake’s JRT program gave her the pride, confidence and direction to know what she wanted to do with her life, King added.

“It feels really good to be part of such a wonderful team.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the JRT program or EMT/Firefighter positions, should call the Department at (262) 895-7533, or visit online, www.WindLakeFireDepartment.org.

“We welcome all enthusiastic individuals to contact us!” said Robins. “This is your opportunity to be a hero and serve your community.”