The month of September is starting with virtual classes, but in-person safety training for Gibraltar School District staff. Fire Chief Andy Bertges got some help from his daughter to make sure teachers, administrators, and employees were able to conduct COVID-19 appropriate fire extinguisher coaching. Bertges says it is a back-to-school tradition, and that the modifications for public health were minimal. The lessons taught apply to everyone, says Bertges.

Those tips may be particularly applicable this year. Northern Door County has seen a lot of visitors over the summer months, and that has contributed to a spike in calls for the Gibraltar Fire Department. That echoes data reported by Chief Justin MacDonald of Ephraim and Chris Hecht with Sister Bay/Liberty Grove.