Volunteer firefighters already do more than just protect the community from blazes, but members at departments across Door County have been doing much more than even that in recent weeks. The COVID-19 pandemic has put volunteer firefighters into several volunteer roles such as dropping off groceries and assisting in absentee voting. Over the weekend the Brussels-Union-Gardner Fire Department even hosted an impromptu parade for three-year-old Levi, who because of the Safer at Home order had to have a birthday party without many of his family and friends. BUG Fire Chief Curt Vandertie says it has been gratifying for his department to have such a positive impact in the community in so many different ways.

The Door County Fire Chiefs Association has mobilized hundreds of volunteers across the county to help residents with non-emergency needs such as delivering food and medication, answering general questions, and providing emotional support.