Without grabbing a fire hose, you could have provided critical help during Sunday’s blaze in Carlsville. The incident marked the first deployment of the MABAS 154 Incident Support Team. Modeled off the Racine Bells in southern Wisconsin, the volunteers respond to the scene when requested with water, food, and other support items for the firefighters and the fire’s victims. Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Chief Chris Hecht credits volunteer Jody Whiteman with partnering with the Door County Fire Chiefs’ Association to provide the service. He thought it was executed well as Sunday’s events moved forward.

Hecht stressed that the incident support team is a stopgap, not a replacement, for larger organizations like the American Red Cross that offer their services when fires or other disasters occur and stretch over a more extended time. You can see how you can help the MABAS 154 Incident Support Team by contacting your local fire chief.