We hope we never have to call them, but are so thankful they are there if we ever do. They are our volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services crew, and the Village of Callaway is fortunate to have a great team.

Dan Trumbull is the acting Fire Chief for Callaway, while Mark Buss serves as the EMS captain. Several of the firefighters also serve as EMTs, and are ready to answer the call for an emergency 24/7, 365.

Becoming an EMT in Nebraska requires a time commitment. After completing a lengthy training program through the state of Nebraska and obtaining CPR cer- tification, you are required to pass a national registry cognitive exam as well as a psychomotor exam. After passing the required exams, you must apply for your EMT license from the Nebraska state board, which also includes a background check.

While firefighters in Nebraska are not required to complete a specific training program, most departments - including Callaway - offer various training exercises throughout the year for its members. In June, multi-agency training in Callaway brought together responders from Merna, Arnold, Oconto, and Callaway for a hands-on Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) drill. Crews worked side by side on vehicle extrication triage and rescue techniques, sharpening critical skills through realistic scenarios.

Callaway Volunteer Fire and Rescue (CVFR) is comprised of all volunteers and has a total roster of 36 active members, with 13 holding an EMT or RN license and being able to staff the ambulance. CVFR also has three cross-rostered EMS members who are volunteer FD/Rescue members from surrounding communities like Arnold and Oconto, but work in the Callaway community and are able to respond when available. This collaboration between the communities has made a huge impact on responding to calls and getting help to patients in need in a timely manner.

While being available to respond to emergency situations, CVFR also has a very active presence in the community. Within the last few years CVFR has offered an American Heart Association Basic Life Support class each year for anyone interested, free of charge. The ambulance also provides stand-by for Callaway Public Schools athletic contests and Seven Valleys Rodeo events.

Thank you Callaway Volunteer Firefighters and EMTs for all you do!