Big Bend fire and police report rising calls, schedule tests and training

Fire and police representatives told the Big Bend Village Board that emergency calls have increased and that departments are scheduling equipment tests and training.

The fire department representative (S3) said, "We had 21 calls for the month," and added that the department’s year-to-date calls have risen to about 188. S3 said the fire department completed and submitted its 2025 budget, that members attended WCTC EVOT driving classes, and that pump testing for the engines and tender is scheduled for Oct. 7–8. S3 also announced Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 6–12) and said the department plans a fish fry/open house on April 11 and is seeking sponsors, donors and volunteers.

The police representative (S4) reported recent enforcement and response activity: "We had 2 thefts, 1 battery arrest, 1 criminal damage property arrest, and 1 disorderly conduct arrest," along with about 43 traffic stops and 41 citations. S4 said the department received a $500 federal grant to purchase body armor and assisted with an evacuation drill at Christ Lutheran School, including safely crossing students on a local roadway.

Both department representatives emphasized training and readiness; S3 noted live-burn training arranged with a neighboring department. The board did not take separate action on the reports but discussed staffing and coordination for winter operations in public works.

What comes next: pump testing and training dates remain scheduled; the fire department will continue outreach during Fire Prevention Week and staff will follow up on volunteer and sponsor recruitment for the April event.