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MILADORE, WI (WSAU-WAOW) – The Sherry Volunteer Fire Department faced questions from village leaders and residents about 16 cited violations during a meeting last Thursday. The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services flagged these violations, sparking concerns over the department’s future.
The fire department clarified that as a private entity, it is governed by OSHA regulations and not required to meet DSPS standards. Despite this, village leaders voiced ongoing safety concerns.
“It’s not to say that you guys are not good firefighters at all. It’s…we need to make sure that the records are upheld for our safety as well as your guys’ safety,” said a village leader.
Discussion turned to training regulations, where the department explained that OSHA standards do not mandate certain training required by DSPS. They assured that optional training is available. “If they want to go to training, if they want to go to mid-state we pay for it,” said a representative. “You don’t have to go to a special class, you just have to make sure a person’s knowledge of what he’s expected to do,” they added.
The village is seeking input from a former firefighter to better understand safety standards. For now, the village will maintain its contract with the department. A follow-up meeting is planned for late April to further discuss the department’s status.
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