NEFF_Jan2026

WWW.NSVFA.ORG The Official Publication of the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association

REACHING MORE THAN 8 , 50 0 NEBRASKA FIREFIGHTERS EACH MONTH January 2026 • Vol. 19 - No. 3 On December 8, at approximately 6:38 a.m., the Arnold Volunteer Fire Department was paged to a reported garage fire at 206 East 2nd Avenue, a single-family residence. See more photos and information inside. Photo courtesy of Tammy Weinman.

LOOKING FORWARD TO SERVING YOUR DEPARTMENT’S NEEDS IN 2026 AND BEYOND!

SHELLIE RATHJEN

North & Western Nebraska

308.385.8735

JUSTIN SCHACK

Southeast Nebraska

402.630.3211

2 • Nebraska Firefighter • January 2026

Arnold house fire

On December 8, at approximately 6:38 a.m., the Arnold Volunteer Fire Department was paged to a reported garage fire at 206 East 2nd Avenue, a single-family residence. Upon arrival, firefighters found the garage fully engulfed in flames, with fire extending into a portion of the home.

Crews initiated an exterior attack and worked to prevent further spread. All members of the family were able to exit the residence safely. At this time, the status of a couple family pets remains unknown.

Although parts of the structure remain standing, the home and its contents are considered a total loss. The cause of the fire is believed to be electrical in nature, though the investigation is ongoing. Mutual aid was provided by the Stapleton and Callaway Fire Departments. Additional assistance came from the Custer County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal’s Office. Photos courtesy of Tammy Weinman.

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Classified ads run $10 for the first 10 words, and 25 cents a word after that. A photo is $10 additional. Rates are the same in each state (Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Kansas).

Email the ad to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com to place your personal or departmental ads.

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308.385.8735

Southern Nebraska

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January 2026 • Nebraska Firefighter • 3

Fire Prevention Nebraska Style

A New Year, A Renewed Commitment to Fire Prevention

As we welcome a new year, the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association (NSVFA) Fire Prevention Team would like to wish all of our firefighters, departments, families, and communities a Happy New Year. January is a natural time for reflection, fresh starts, and goal setting—and it is also the perfect opportunity to renew our commitment to fire prevention.

Fire prevention is not something we do only in October during Fire Prevention Week. While October

provides a great spotlight, fire prevention is a year-round responsibility. Every month brings new hazards, new teaching moments, and new opportunities to make a difference. From winter heating and electrical safety to summer grilling, harvest season hazards, and holiday fire risks, there is always a reason—and a need—to keep prevention at the forefront.

We encourage every department to consider setting monthly fire prevention goals for the year ahead. These goals do not need to be complicated. They might include planning one public education event, visiting a school or senior center, sharing seasonal safety tips on social media, or re-

viewing smoke alarm and carbon monoxide safety within your community. Small, consistent efforts add up to big results over time.

Fire prevention is important for all ages—from preschool children to senior citizens. Teaching young children about not playing with matches, calling 9-1-1, stop, drop, and roll, and home escape plans builds a foundation for a lifetime of safety. Adults benefit from reminders about cooking safety, heating practices, and smoke alarm maintenance. Seniors, in particular, may face increased risks related to mobility, medications, or older housing, making targeted prevention efforts especially valuable.

“As firefighters, we are uniquely positioned to lead these efforts.

Prevention education saves lives, reduces injuries, and protects property—often before the first alarm ever sounds. By committing to prevention throughout the entire year, we strengthen our departments, our communities, and the mission of the fire service as a whole.”

As firefighters, we are uniquely positioned to lead these efforts.

Prevention education saves lives, reduces injuries, and protects property—often before the first alarm ever sounds. By committing to prevention throughout the entire year, we strengthen our departments, our communities, and the mission of the fire service as a whole.

The NSVFA Fire Prevention Team looks forward to another

year of working alongside departments across Nebraska to promote education, awareness, and safety.

Together, let’s make 2026 a year where fire prevention remains a priority every single month.

Stay safe, stay proactive, and have a wonderful New Year.

— NSVFA Fire Prevention Team RHONDA CERNY

NE Nebraska meeting Feb. 6

Off-duty Norfolk firefighter alerts residents of smoke The Norfolk Fire Department was dispatched to 1708 Bel Air Road at 9:18 p.m. on Friday for a garage on fire.

An off-duty Norfolk firefighter happened to be driving by and noticed the smoke coming from the garage door and called 911.

He then was able to alert the occupants and get them out of the house without injury.

Per the Norfolk Fire Department, the first arriving apparatus found smoke coming from the roof vents of the house. Crews immediately entered the garage and made their way to the attic.

They encountered heavy heat and smoke.

Lack of access and large amounts of storage materials made it difficult to get to the fire. Another fire attack crew was able to access the seat of the fire by pulling down ceiling on the main level.

The fire was extinguished. Crews remained on scene hours after conducting salvage and overhaul operations.

No injuries were reported by firefighters or residents of the home.

There were two aerial trucks and one ambulance on scene along with approximately 15 firefighters.

The Norfolk Fire Department was assisted by Norfolk Police Department, Madison Sheriff’s Office, Black Hills Energy, NPPD, and the Norfolk Water Department.

Rhonda Cerny, NSVFA Fire Prevention

The next Northeast meeting will be February 6 in Blair.

Meal will start at 7:30 p.m. and the meeting will start at 8 p.m. The program will follow the meeting.

Upcoming Events

Email your Upcoming Event by the 10th of the previous month (ex. Aug. 10 for the September issue) to jeff@ne- braskafirefighter.com . There is no charge.

Crews called to apartment fire

On Nov. 27, Fort Calhoun Fire and Rescue assisted Blair Volunteer Fire and Rescue on a working structure fire in an apartment building. Crews spent two hours on scene alongside Kennard Fire Rescue, Herman Volunteer Fire Department, Arlington Volunteer Fire Department and Bennington Fire and Rescue.

ACTION FIRE PHOTOS NEEDED! Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com

along with information to explain the photo.

JAN. 8, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, West Nebraska Regional Airport (Annual Meeting).

FEBRUARY 6, 2026: Northeast meeting in Blair, Meal at 7:30 p.m., meeting at 8 p.m.

FEBRUARY 6-8, 2026: Les Lukert Conference, Kearney, NE. MAR. 21, 2026: 10th Annual Nebraska Fire Chiefs Association, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Holthus Convention Center, 3130 Holen Ave., York, NE. Speaker will be Chief Doug Cline.

APR. 9, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, Alliance.

MAY 15-17, 2026: 2026 Nebraska Fire School, Grand Island, NE. JULY 9, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, Banner County.

OCT. 8, 2026: Scotts Bluff County Mutual Aid Association Meeting, Bayard.

OCT. 15-17, 2026: NSVFA Annual Conference, hosted by Dakota City Fire Department in South Sioux City.

4 • Nebraska Firefighter • January 2026

Departed Firefighters Travis Mayer

Gordon Michaelis

1942-2025

Travis Mayer was born on January 2, 1942, in Montgomery, Alabama.

His father’s military service led the family to relocate to Offutt Air Force Base before eventually settling in Bellevue, Nebraska.

Travis attended Bellevue High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Janice West. Their love story blossomed, and in 1962 they were married, beginning a lifelong partnership built on devotion, faith, and family.

In the 1960s, Travis enlisted in the Army Reserves, proudly serving his country until his honorable discharge in 1969 as a Specialist 4 and Chemical Staff Specialist. During this time, he and Jan welcomed their first two children—Ken, born May 16, 1966, and Tiffany, born June 13, 1969.

Later that year, the family moved to Gretna, Nebraska, where Travis began building deep roots and a lasting legacy. In 1972, he joined the Gretna Fire Department, starting a remarkable career in public service.

Their family grew again with the birth of their daughter Erica on December 7, 1976.

Travis dedicated 53 years to the Gretna Fire Department, serving with courage, compassion, and integrity. He became Fire Chief in 1985, leading until 1999, and spent 30 years as an instructor for the Nebraska Fire Service/Nebraska State Fire Marshal Training Division, shaping generations of firefighters.

His commitment was recognized with honors such as Instructor of the Year in 2010 and Citizen of the Year in 2020. Beyond firefighting, Travis expanded his expertise in emergency response, earning EMT certification in 1978 and completing paramedic training at Creighton

1948-2025 University in 1979. By 1981, he was already teaching others, and in 1999 he joined the Sarpy County Local Emergency Planning Committee, contributing to regional safety and preparedness.

In his downtime, he enjoyed his annual fishing trips to Canada with the Doolittle Clan and hunting in the fall. He also found joy in simple pleasures— sharing stories, spending time outdoors, and cherishing the camaraderie of friends and family. Whether casting a line in northern waters or walking the fields during hunting season, Travis treasured these traditions as moments of connection, laughter, and renewal.

Through every chapter of his life, Travis embodied dedication to family, community, and service. His journey from a young man in Bellevue to a respected leader in Gretna reflects a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering commitment to others.

Travis was preceded in death by his parents: Fred and Doris Mayer; and his sister Regina Daniell. He is survived by his beloved wife: Janice; children: Ken (Stacy) Mayer, Tiffany (Tom) Mayer, and Erica (Chad) Boker; and grandchildren: Kevin, Clara, Molly and Lily. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched in the community.

Visitation will be held on December 19th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Gretna United Methodist Church.

Funeral services will follow on December 20th at 11:00 a.m. at Gretna United Methodist Church. A luncheon will be hosted afterward at the Gretna American Legion. Memorials may be directed to the family for later designation.

Action Fire Photos Needed!

Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com along with information to explain the photo.

For ADDRESS CHANGES CONTACT: 402-761-2211 Fax: 402-761-2224 staff@nsvfa.org

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We come together to remember and celebrate the life of Gordon Michaelis, who was born on February 10, 1948 in Pawnee City, to Norman and Evelyn (Kalina) Michaelis, and departed from this world peacefully at home surrounded by his family and friends on December 18, 2025. He was a dedicated and resilient man who spent his life in service to his community and his family. He was a 1967 graduate of Barneston High School, and on August 17, 1967, he was united in marriage to Connie Plihal. He served in the Army National Guard from April 1967 to April 1973. He worked as a pump attendant - where he first met Connie, and then at Behrends Construction, Comico/Agrium, Progressive Ag Services, LLC, and also drove truck for Wheelers and Colgroves.

Gordon was a jack of all trades and passionate about his hobbies that included riding horses, gardening, go-cart and stock car racing, bowling, drag-racing, and participating in the Tractor Relay Across Nebraska.

He was a dedicated outdoorsman and a familiar face at local rodeos.

His commitment to his community was evident in his long-standing involvement with the AFL-CIO chemical workers union where he taught hazmat classes in St. Louis and Cincinnati, the Gage County Rodeo As-

sociation - Little Britches, Blue River 4H Club leader, little league baseball coach, Nebraska Endurance Competitive Trail Ride Association (NECTRA), the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association, and the Anderson Post #25 American Legion of Wymore.

His proudest service came as a firefighter and EMT in Wymore.

He has served in multiple leadership roles throughout his 53 years with the Wymore Volunteer Fire Department, including many terms as chief of the department. His love for his community and dedication to service earned him several distinctions, including the firefighter of the year award for the Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association as well as the 2018 NSVFA Fire Prevention David Heywood Leadership Award.

Surviving Gordon are his children, Jeannie Thomas and husband Anthony and Darin Michaelis all of Wymore; his grandchildren, Heather Penner, Courtney (Jayson) Tennant, Dakota (Jerrad) Hurley, Dustin Michaelis (Amber Owens), Leslie (Derek) Smith, Chelsea (Tyler) Jones; great grandchildren, Isabelle and Emily Penner, Henry and Ryan Tennant, Parker, Noah, Aspen, Josephine and Stetson Hurley, Colt Michaelis, Carlie, Lane and Hunter Smith, Paisley, Remi and Makenzie Jones; brothers,

Dell (Margaret) Michaelis, and Roger Michaelis; sister, Ginger (Todd) Nicolaus; brother-in-law, Roger (Suzanne) Plihal; sisters-in-law, Linda (Ed) James and Sherri (Doug) Ottersberg; several nieces and nephews and a host of extended family and friends.

In his family, Gordon found his greatest joy and purpose. As a proud father, grandfather, and great grandfather, he was a supportive and dedicated figure, always present, always loving. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman Michaelis and Evelyn Michaelis; wife, Connie (2019), parents-in-law, Eugene and Betty Plihal and Evelyn Plihal; sister-in-law, Marcia Robinette; brotherin-law, Dennis Burgess; and nephew, Kent Michaelis.

A funeral service was held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 at Wymore Church of Christ with Clayton Lundstedt officiating.

Burial was at the Wymore Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for future designation with the funeral home in charge.

We encourage everyone to honor Gordon’s memory by sharing their stories, memories, and photos of him on the memorial page at www.ghchapel.com as well as view his video tribute and service livestream. His life was a blessing to many, and his legacy will continue in the hearts and minds of those who loved him.

These services were entrusted to the Laughlin-Hoevet Funeral Home in Wymore.

THANK YOU FOR A GREAT YEAR! WE ENJOYED WORKING WITH OUR CUSTOMERS AND PARTNERS THIS PAST YEAR AND LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH YOU IN 2026!

- YOUR FRIENDS AT FYR-TEK 715 4TH STREET, GOTHENBURG, NE 69138 ~ (800) 473-8903 ~ WWW.FYR-TEK.COM

January 2026 • Nebraska Firefighter • 5

Departed Firefighters Terry Lee Eirich

Joseph Henry Bockman

1960-2025

Terry Lee Eirich, age 65, of Kearney Nebraska, passed away at his home on December 10 after a lengthy fight against cancer.

Terry was born on March 6, 1960, in Scottsbluff, NE to Eileen Schnee. Terry grew up in the Scottsbluff/ Gering area and moved to Sioux County Nebraska in the 8th Grade.

Terry attended and graduated from Sioux County High School in Harrison, NE. Following high school, Terry attended Central Community College in Hastings and later graduated with an Associate’s degree in Welding Technology.

Terry married his high school sweetheart, Deborah Eirich on June 7, 1980. Terry and Deb made their home in Kearney. Terry and Deb celebrated the births of their two sons, Christopher Eirich and Drew Eirich. Terry and Deb later welcomed their four grandchildren, Shea, Paige, Jack and Elliot.

Terry was a Boy Scouts leader, a soccer coach for his sons and a member of the First United Methodist Church. Terry’s primary passion was serving his community through his dedication and membership to the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department. Terry proudly served the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department for 38 years. During his fire department

1946-2025 career, Terry held every leadership rank in the department, including the rank of Chief between 2010 and 2015.

Terry’s greatest passion within the department was training and fire prevention. Terry loved teaching new firefighters and pioneering modern, advanced fire training for tenured firefighters from all over Nebraska. Terry had a special passion for conducting fire prevention programs and firefighter museum presentations for the youth of Kearney and surrounding communities.

Terry worked for Bamford Inc. in Kearney, NE for 36 years as a welder and fire sprinkler systems manufacturer. In 2015, Terry moved on to his dream career as the Fire Inspector for the City of Kearney. Terry served in this role for the final 10 years of his career. Terry also worked as a firefighting instructor for the State of Nebraska Fire Marshall’s Office. During his professional career, Terry was honored with numerous commendations and awards recognizing his achievements. Prior to his passing, the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department awarded Terry with the Legacy of Service Award and dedicated their training tower in his name. Terry’s legacy will forever live on in the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department training facility; a

Smokey Sez sez

By BOB HECKMAN

This month’s article is dedicated to the memory of Eugene Hunke, Dodge Volunteer Fire Department, 4/6/2022, gone but not forgotten.

Smoke detectors save lives by providing early warning and cutting the risk of dying in a fire by 60 % in home fires. Most fatal fires happen at night while 2/3 of all fires happen in homes without working smoke and CO2 alarms proper placement are the following locations in the home every bedroom, hallway and every level. Just to be sure you have a working smoke C02 detector. They

need to be tested monthly. Replacing batteries annually is highly recommended. The life of a smoke detector/CO2 is ten years. Some types of detectors come with sealed batteries that last for ten years. Early smoke detectors had evolved about 1890 and detectors were invented about 1902. Modern smoke detectors were invented about 1930, leading to commercial sales and home installation by the 1970s. With the start of a New Year now is the time to test your detector and replace batteries depending on your type of detector and remember if over 10 years old they need replaced....fireman bob

2026 Nebraska Line of Duty Fatality Surviving Family Scholarship Mid-Nebraska Community Foundation seeks applications for the 2026 Nebraska Line of Duty Fatality Surviving Family Scholarship. The scholarship, made possible by the late Arthur Dismukes, is awarded annually.

This $3,800 scholarship is for a surviving spouse, child, or step-child of a Nebraska firefighter or law enforcement officer who died in the line of duty. Service as a volunteer firefighter is included. The award may be used at any accredited institution of higher education in the US, including trade schools.

Apply during January & February. Visit https://midnebraskafoundation. org/ and follow the links to our Scholarship Portal.

Many thanks to the readers of the Nebraska Firefighter newsletter who share information about this scholarship to potential applicants.

place he devoted his life’s work to.

Terry is survived by his wife, Deborah of Kearney; his Son Christopher, daughter in-law, Donna and grandchildren, Paige and Jack of Hickman; his son Drew, daughter in-law Kelly and grandchildren Shea and Elliott of Bruning; his brother in-law Marvin Taylor and sister in-law Kathy Angelino of Parker, CO as well as numerous other extended family members.

Terry was preceded in death by his mother, Eileen Schnee; his grandparents Alex and Molly Eirich and his mother and father inlaw Lea Lu and Kenneth Taylor.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 16th at 10:30 am at First United Methodist Church, 4500 Linden Drive in Kearney. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Kearney Volunteer Fire Department.

Joseph Henry Bockman, born October 11, 1946, passed away December 25, 2025 at the age of 79.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph & Martha (Sidzyik) Bockman; brothers Thomas & Donald Bockman.

Survived by his wife of 61 years Diane; daughter Debra Yates (Richard); son Joey Bockman (Amy); grandchildren Megan Wessling (Mike McPherson), Stephanie Wessling (Tiras Bolton); Michael Wessling (Jaycee), Jeff Yates (Angel), Jerry Bockman (Taylor), Courtney Bockman (Carter Mogensen); great grandchildren Levi, Tiras, Jr, Collins, and soon-to-be Micah Joseph;

brother Raymond Bockman (Judy); many nieces and nephews; and beloved pet J.B. Visitation: Thursday, January 8, 2026, 5:007:00 p.m., with Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m., both at St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic Church, 12330 South 36th Street, Bellevue.

To view a live broadcast of the service, visit the website below and click on the live cast at the top of the home page.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, January 9, 2026, 10:30 a.m., at St. Matthew the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Memorials will be directed by the family.

6 • Nebraska Firefighter • January 2026

NSVFA Officer Directory President BRENDA JENNY 1767 Colfax Street, Blair, NE 68008 402.639.9647 bgolf2560@yahoo.com 1st Vice President TROY SHOEMAKER 1433 Grove Ave Alliance, NE 69301 308-760-7682 tshoemaker@cityofalliance.net 2nd Vice President KENNY KRAUSE 1229 D St. Fairbury, NE 68352 402-300-0097 krausechief@gmail.com Secretary/Treasurer MARK MEINTS 502 E H St, Wymore, NE 68466 402-806-7451 meints2@windstream.net NSVFA Lobbyist RYAN K. MCINTOSH PO Box 13 Nebraska City, NE 68410 ryan.mcintosh@stilmockmcintosh.com NSVFA Legal Advisor SCOTT SMITH P.O. Box 186 Syracuse, NE 68446 scott.smith@bhhslawfirm.com Past President SCOTT SCHREMMER 815 W 6th, Chadron, NE 69337 308-430-1494 buffhater@gmail.com

District Directors #1 DARRELL VANCE 1415 Q St, Gering, NE 69341 308-631-0053 DarrellVance1230@gmail.com #2 JOHN BOMAR P.O. Box 222, Battle Creek, NE 68715 402-992-1560 JBomar1970@gmail.com #3 RON CHADA 1721 N Sheridan North Platte, NE 69101 308-520-2828 rmchada@winnelson.com #4 DANIEL CHAPEK 1491 County Road 30 Weston, NE 68070 402-430-7859 dchapek@dc-ww.com NSVFA Representative National Vol. Fire Council JUSTIN SCAMEHORN 202 Hidas Ave. Waco, NE 68460 402-366-1939 jscamehorn@yahoo.com Appointed NVFC Director JOEL CERNY 1618 Denver St. Schuyler 68661 402-720-4100 cerny_j@hotmail.com Chaplain MATTHEW MAU Cell: 402-363-1540 E: pastormattwaco@gmail.com

NSVFA Officer OFficer Reports A New Year of Service, Purpose, and Gratitude Hopefully everyone had a wonder Christmas holiday, filled with cherished time and memories spent with family and Friends.

As the calendar turns and a new year begins, we as the Nebraska Volunteer Firefighter Association (NVFA), pause—not to slow down, but to reflect. Another year has come and gone, marked by long nights, blaring pagers, icy roads, summer heat, and countless moments when Nebraska volunteers dropped everything to answer a call. For Nebraska’s volunteer firefighters, the new year is more than a change of date. It is a reminder of why we serve and how precious each day truly is.

Life in the fire service has a way of putting time into perspective. We witness both tragedy and resilience up close. We see how quickly circumstances can change and how moments—ordinary moments—can suddenly matter most.

Those experiences carry a powerful lesson: life is short, and none of us are promised tomorrow.

That understanding fuels the NVFA’s commitment as the new year begins. It is a call to embrace every opportunity—to serve better and support one another more fully. It is also a reminder to appreciate the quiet moments at home, the

shared meals, the laughter in the station, and the camaraderie that binds volunteer firefighters across the state.

The coming year will bring challenges. It always does. There will be emergencies that test skills and strength, training sessions that push limits, and decisions made in seconds that carry lifelong impact.

But there will also be victories: lives helped, properties saved, and communities made safer because volunteers chose to show up.

As we, Nebraska’s volunteer firefighters, step into the new year, we do so with gratitude—for our families who support us, for the communities that trust us, and for the fellow firefighters who stand beside us. We also step forward with purpose, knowing that each call answered is a chance to make a difference.

The new year is an invitation.

An invitation to live fully, serve selflessly, and never take a single moment for granted. For the Nebraska Volunteer Firefighter Association, that invitation will be answered the same way it always is—with dedication, courage, and heart.

I look ahead to 2026 and the opportunity to continue working with you and your departments to strengthen Nebraska’s fire service. The NSVFA Board is currently reviewing, updating, and clarifying our bylaws, which will

NVFC Reports I want to start this article hoping you all had a great holiday season. In last month’s article I told you I would keep you informed as to what is going on with the possible update the OSHA 1910.156 Standard or as you may remember it as the Emergency Response Standard. So, the lull in information I talked about has come to an end and things are really ramping up again.

The first thing I will talk about is a letter that the National Volunteer Fire Council and the International Association of Fire Fight-

2025-26 Nebraska State Volunteer Firefighters Association Auxiliary PRESIDENT Courtney Lane 1ST VICE PRESIDENT Mary Chada 2ND VICE PRESIDENT Jacey Rasmussen TREASURER Kristi Rounds SECRETARY Kathy Horn, Schuyler PARLIAMENTARIAN Sharlene Kuhr

ers have sent to The Honorable Lori Chavez-DeRemer the Secretary of Labor and Ms. Amanda Laihow the Acting Assistant Secretary of Labor (who oversees OSHA). The three main topics in the letter that we wanting to address with them are: 1) Removing incorporated-by-reference NFPA standards where they are not specifically needed to define protective gear and equipment.

2) Recommending local risk management and hazard mitigation plans that define training, qualifications, and safety programs suited to local hazards.

3) Recommending that fire departments serving communities of 5000 residents or fewer will not be included within the scope of this new regulation and instead shall remain subject to the current version of 1910.156.

Please remember that Nebraska is a non-OSHA state and most fire departments should not have to worry about this issue and that recommendation #3 above if approved would eliminate all but about 40 of the over 400 fire departments here.

As a member of the NVFC OSHA Task Force we have gone back weekly meeting to review each section of the proposed standard and make our recommendations as to changes that we could live with. The sections

Brenda Jenny, President “Life in the fire service has a way of putting time into perspective. We witness both tragedy and resilience up close. We see how quickly circumstances can change and how moments—ordinary moments—can suddenly matter most.

Those experiences carry a powerful lesson: life is short, and none of us are promised tomorrow.”

be shared with the membership through the Nebraska Firefighter newspaper and presented at our annual conference. Also on the horizon are the new ADA Title II digital accessibility requirements, which will be phased in over the next several years. Larger public entities—communities with populations over 50,000—must comply

by April 24, 2026, while smaller communities (populations under 50,000) must meet the requirements by April 26, 2027. These rules require government websites, mobile apps, and digital content, including official social media used to provide public information and services, to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA accessibility standards.

The NSVFA is in the early stages of reviewing these regulations and developing informational onesheets and training videos to assist departments, and we will continue to provide updates as more infor-

mation becomes available.

As always, if you have a meeting or event, you would like me to attend, please reach out and I will make every effort to be there. Below are the upcoming events you don’t want to miss: Legislative Breakfast: January 20, 2026, 8:00 am in Lincoln, NE – Nebraska State Bar Foundation, 635 S 14th Street, Suite 130, Lincoln, NE 68508 Nebraska Fire Chiefs Leadership Symposium: March 21, 2026 , 8:00 am – 4:30 pm in York, NE – Holthus Convention Center, 3130 Holen Avenue, York, NE 68467 NSVFA Fire School: May 15 – 17, 2026 in Grand Island, NE at Fonner Park.

Until next time, stay safe and healthy.

BRENDA JENNY President, NSVFA

Joel Cerny, NVFC Director “Please remember that Nebraska is a non-OSHA state and most fire departments should not have to worry about this issue and that recommendation #3 above if approved would eliminate all but about 40 of the over 400 fire departments here”

that we are reviewing include; the Medical & Physical Exams Section the Training Section, the Risk Management Plan Section the Equipment and PPE Section, the Vehicle Preparedness and Operation Section, the Emergency Incident Operations Section, the Emergency Services Organizations Establishment of an Emergency Response Plan and Emergency Service Capability Section, the ESO Facility Preparedness Section, the Standard Operating Procedures Section, the ESO Preplans Section, the Incident Management Section.

The Post-Incident Analysis Section, the Member Participation

Section, the Evaluation Section and last but not least is the Definitions Section. The definition section will be incredibly difficult as definitions are so different from one area to the others. As, you know we can’t even agree if fire trucks that haul water to the scenes are tankers or tenders. You can see with this lengthily list I’ve have been and will continue to be very busy attend Zoom meetings doing my best to represent you on the national level.

JOEL E CERNY NSVFA Director to the NVFC

Action Fire Photos Needed!

Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com along with information to explain the photo.

NSVFA Officer OFficer Reports

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Late November and early December, Fairbury Rural responded to two structure fires in their district and one mutual aid that were life changing for the residents of those structures. All three homes burned to the ground with the occupants getting out with only their lives, all three had fire coming through the roof at the time of the alarm, and all three were started by electrical issues.

It’s that time of year when fire safety and fire prevention should be at the forefront of our minds.

Troy mentioned in his article last month, that the winter months can stress the electrical systems,

equipment and our responders.

Training that we have been provided through the State Fire Marshal’s office at our own location, and at state fire school has prepared us to safely handle these events. The investigation division is significant in helping us determine the cause of these fires, which helps us to develop fire safety and fire prevention programs for the future.

The Plans Review and Inspection division help us to maintain safety standards to help prevent property loss and potential loss of life. This is why the NSVFA has taken a support role in the allocation of the way funds collected under Nebraska Revised Statute 81523 are currently being utilized.

If you haven’t already, please take time and contact your senator, and show your support for the State Fire Marshal’s office.

I would like to congratulate Daniel Chapek on his appointment to fill my term as District 4 Director, and thank the other applicants for their interest in the position. There were several great applications. I look forward to those individuals finding a role in leadership in the NSVFA. It looks like there is some burn permit legislation going to be introduced. Watch you email. If your email is not on the list of constant contacts, reach out to the NSVFA office and get added so you can stay current on this and other legislative matters.

As always, stay safe,

January 2026 • Nebraska Firefighter • 7 Kenny Krause, 2nd Vice President “I would like to congratulate Daniel Chapek on his appointment to fill my term as District 4 Director, and thank the other applicants for their interest in the position. There were several great applications. I look forward to those individuals finding a role in leadership in the NSVFA.”

KENNY KRAUSE, 2nd Vice

BUILT TO

ENDURE Open reservations now for the NSVFA 2027 conference Norfolk Lodge & Suites (Location of Conference Center) 4200 W NORFOLK AVE, NORFOLK, NE (402-379-3833) has Open Reservations now for the NSVFA 2027 conference that will be hosted by Battle Creek Volunteer Fire and Rescue.

GROUP BLOCK is under NSVFA 2027 and the room rate will $135 per night.

Also, if you would like a Hospitality Room, you must contact John Bomar, JBomar1970@gmail.com as they are in a block of their own.

All other motels will not take reservations until after November 1, 2026, and the NSVFA office will put that list out after the 2026 NSVFA conference that will be held in Dakota City.

Maximum durability means maximum readiness. MacQueen delivers comprehensive fire apparatus solutions backed by expert service and support.

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8 • Nebraska Firefighter • January 2026

Buildings, contents damaged in Friday fire Firefighters battled a fully involved structure fire Friday evening in north Beatrice.

According to Beatrice Fire & Rescue, firefighters were dispatched the 2100 block of Arapahoe Trail for what was reportedly a vehicle on fire.

When they arrived, firefighters

found an outbuilding with heavy flames and smoke coming out the front. Firefighters began an exterior attack on the fully involved building. A second crew began an exterior attack on an adjacent building when the fire extended to it.

Firefighters were eventually

able to move to the interior to extinguish the blaze. Both buildings suffered heavy fire and smoke damage.

The BFR report said there was at least $500,000 in damage to the property of Klecans Diverse Service.

The cause of the blaze is listed

as an engine fire that quickly escalated.

BFR sent nine personnel to the fire; no injuries were reported.

Firefighters were on the scene until shortly after midnight.

The Beatrice Police Department, Beatrice Public Works and Black Hills Energy also responded

to the fire. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal is investigating.

An online fundraiser has been established for the owners at Venmo@Robin-McKiddyKlecan.

(Written by Rob Schlotterbeck, Daily Sun editor, Beatrice Daily Sun, Beatrice, December 2, 2025)

January 2026 • Nebraska Firefighter • 9

Moving Past “The Thumb Rule” in HazMat Size-Up and Initial Actions

By KENNY LARSON

The definition of what qualifies as a hazardous materials (HazMat) incident has changed dramatically in recent years—and so has the approach to handling it. We can no longer prepare solely for overturned fuel tankers or leaking shipping containers. Today’s HazMat calls are just as likely to involve chemical suicides, lithium-ion battery fires, or alternative fuel vehicles.

Best practices are evolving almost weekly as new information emerges. While “bread and butter” events like natural gas leaks and gasoline spills still occur, HazMat has moved into our neighborhoods, homes, and workplaces. None of this should deter or overwhelm the local responder because you are still the hero at these scenes, and the tools you already have can make a life-saving difference. After all, no one has ever been saved by a rescuer in a plastic HazMat suit.

BEYOND “THE THUMB RULE”

Most of us were introduced to HazMat awareness through “The Thumb Rule” or “The Donut Hole.” The idea that if you can cover the entire incident with your thumb at arm’s length, you’re far enough away. The instruction was simple: recognize the hazard, call for help, and stay clear.

That’s a sound defensive posture—but it’s not always enough anymore. When hazardous materials make their way into homes, cars, or confined spaces, responders must move past “The Thumb Rule.” We need crews capable of identifying a situation, making a risk-based assessment, and taking calculated actions using the tools already on the rig.

“DUDE, DON’T BREATHE IT”

If there’s one principle that never changes, it’s this: “Dude, don’t breathe it.” It’s not a scare tactic—it’s sound operational advice.

A firefighter in full structural gear and SCBA can be a superhero in the initial stages of a HazMat event.

Your SCBA provides protection from most airborne threats long enough to make a safe, targeted rescue. But this isn’t a substitute for training or knowledge—it’s a motivator to learn more. Tools are only as effective as the skills behind them.

THE FAMILIAR LOGIC OF SIZE-UP

At its core, HazMat is still about scene size-up and risk assessment.

The questions haven’t changed: What’s happening?

Who needs help?

What will happen if we act—or don’t act?

What are the risks, and how can we reduce them?

HazMat incidents follow the same decision-making process as

For Wednesday, Dec. 3 training night for LeMars Fire Rescue, they took a tour of the Sioux City Fire Rescue’s Regional Hazmat truck, which they brought to LeMars to show to the department. Sioux City Fire Rescue (SCFR) operates a regional hazardous materials (HAZMAT) program using dedicated response vehicles, including a specific truck known as “Hammer 13” (or now referred to as Hazmat 4), and associated trailers. This program covers 12 counties in Iowa. Photo by Brian Nitzschke, department photographer. house fires, water rescues, or vehicle extrications. That’s why local responders—you—remain the experts in protecting the community. Coordinate with your regional HazMat team, seek refresher or initial training, and talk through “what-if” scenarios with HazMat technicians. You’ll find that many solutions rely on proper size-up, risk-based decisions, and the tools you already know how to use.

THE 3/30 RULE: A PRACTICAL RESCUE GUIDELINE

The 3/30 Rule is one such tool—a guideline to help emergency responders balance life-saving efforts with safety during HazMat rescues. It defines how long a responder can operate in a contaminated area while wearing structural PPE and SCBA: 3-MINUTE RULE: When rescuing unconscious or seizing victims, structural PPE with SCBA provides about three minutes of effective protection.

These victims are typically within line of sight or a known area.

30-MINUTE RULE: When rescuing conscious and mobile victims, the same equipment can provide up to thirty minutes of protection, allowing for controlled rescue and evacuation efforts.

This rule does not apply to confined or below-grade spaces, where vapor concentrations can be significantly higher and protection time is drastically reduced. Some situations—such as those involving fluorine-containing gases or

explosive atmospheres—should not be approached until the environment can be changed or mitigated.

The 3/30 Rule isn’t a license to take unnecessary risks—it’s a framework to help you understand what’s possible with the equipment and knowledge you already have.

Department, overseeing operations on the city’s East Side as part of the 1st Division. Chief Larson is dedicated to advancing practical, safety-driven approaches

to HazMat and fireground operations, focusing on empowering firefighters to make confident, informed decisions in dynamic environments.

Ranchers asked to keep water tanks full in dry If there’s one theme to take away, it’s that you already have what you need. Structural PPE, SCBA, conditions and basic ventilation tools—like a TOOLS YOU ALREADY OWN

fan to push a vapor cloud away or replace contaminated air—can all make a measurable difference.

And don’t overlook one of the most powerful tools in your pocket: the cell phone. Quick communication with your regional HazMat experts can provide critical confirmation and reassurance.

Their advice will likely sound familiar: “Dude, don’t breathe it,” and “Remember the 3/30 Rule.”

With those two principles—and the knowledge you already bring to every call—you can move confidently beyond “The Thumb Rule” and make a real impact in your community’s next HazMat emergency.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kenny Larson has served in the Iowa Fire Service for more than 23 years, working in both full-time and combination departments. He currently serves as a District Fire Chief with the Des Moines Fire

Last Thursday afternoon, Nov. 6, firefighters were called to Mule Deer Road in southern Hooker County for a fire started by a pickup.

Thankfully there wasn’t much wind, but there was plenty of fuel in pastures that had come back in great shape from fires last spring, according to landowner Skip Marland.

Mullen Volunteer Fire Chief Tyler Cash said a Civil Air Patrol said 1,408 acres burned, however firefighters on the ground think it was more than that.

Last month the Mullen VFD

also responded to a fire started by a 4 wheeler down Antelope Road south of Mullen. That Oct. 1 fire burned 102 acres.

The U.S. Drought Monitor currently shows nearly all of western Nebraska to be abnormally and moderately dry, with Hooker County being abnormally dry.

The Mullen Volunteer Fire Department reminds ranchers to please fill their water tanks, even if they don’t have livestock in the pastures.

(Written by Gerri Petersen, Mullen Hooker County Tribune, Mullen, November 20, 2025)

Action Fire Photos Needed!

Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com along with information to explain the photo.

10 • Nebraska Firefighter • January 2026 2:12 PM 12/12/25 Cash Basis

NSVFA FIRE SCHOOL

NSVFA 2:12 PM FIRE SCHOOL

NSVFA FIRE SCHOOL

July 2025 through June 2026

Cash Basis July 2025 through June 2026

July 2025 through June 2026

Profit & Loss Budget Overview Profit & Loss Budget Overview Profit & Loss 12/12/25 Budget Overview Jul '25 - Jun 26

Ordinary Income/Expense Ordinary Income/Expense Income Income 4100-00 · FIre School Registration Fees 4100-00 · FIre School Registration Fees 149,625.00 4100-01 · Member 4100-01 · Member 4100-02 · Non-Member 4100-02 · Non-Member 48,000.00 1,300.00 4100-04 · Legal Smorgasbord Registrations 4100-04 · Legal Smorgasbord Registrations 198,925.00 Total 4100-00 · FIre School Registration Fees Total 4100-00 · FIre School Registration Fees 4300-00 · Grant Income 4300-00 · Grant Income 5,000.00 4300-06 · UNL Forest Service - Cost Share 4300-06 · UNL Forest Service - Cost Share 5,000.00 Total 4300-00 · Grant Income Total 4300-00 · Grant Income 4500-00 · Interest Income 500.00 4500-02 · Investment Income 4500-00 · Interest Income 4500-02 · Investment Income 500.00 Total 4500-00 · Interest Income Total 4500-00 · Interest Income 4700-00 · Sponsorship/Vendor Income Income 9,000.00 4700-02 · Corp Sponsorship Fees4700-00 · Sponsorship/Vendor 4700-02 · Corp Sponsorship Fees 10,000.00 4700-04 · FS Book Advertising 4700-04 · FS Book Advertising 19,000.00 4700-06 · FS Vendor Fees 4700-06 · FS Vendor Fees 38,000.00 Total 4700-00 · Sponsorship/Vendor Income Total 4700-00 · Sponsorship/Vendor Income 4900-00 · Misc Income 4900-00 · Misc Income 7,000.00 4900-05 · FS Donations 4900-05 · FS Donations 5,000.00 4900-08 · T-Shirt Sales 500.00 4900-00 · Misc Income - Other 4900-08 · T-Shirt Sales 4900-00 · Misc Income - Other 12,500.00 Total 4900-00 · Misc Income Total 4900-00 · Misc Income 254,925.00 Total Income Total Income Expense 5100-00 · FS Committee Expense Expense 500.00 5110-00 · Clothing - Uniform 5100-00 · FS Committee Expense 11,000.00 5130-00 · Lodging 5110-00 · Clothing - Uniform 500.00 5140-00 · Meal Stipend 5130-00 · Lodging 500.00 5150-00 · Meals/Lunches 5140-00 · Meal Stipend 6,000.00 5160-00 · Mileage 5150-00 · Meals/Lunches 5180-00 · Support Expense 5160-00 · Mileage 2,000.00 5180-01 · Lodging 5180-00 · Support Expense 300.00 5180-02 · Meal Stipend 5180-01 · Lodging 1,000.00 5180-03 · Mileage 5180-02 · Meal Stipend 5180-03 · Mileage 3,300.00 Total 5180-00 · Support Expense 21,800.00 Total 5100-00 · FS Committee Expense Total 5180-00 · Support Expense

Jul '25 - Jun 26 5275-00 · FS Instructor Expense 5275-02 · Instructor Fees 5275-03 · Lodging 5275-04 · Meal Stipend 149,625.00 5275-05 · Mileage 48,000.00 5275-08 · SFM Training Division Support 1,300.00 5275-99 · Misc 198,925.00 Total 5275-00 · FS Instructor Expense 5280-00 · FS Class Room Material 5,000.00 5285-00 · FS Lunches 5290-00 · Garbage Service 5,000.00 5305-00 · Maintenance/Up Keep 5310-00 · Museum Support 5315-00 · Photography 500.00 5320-00 · Portable Toilets 500.00 5325-00 · Printing 5330-00 · Program Book 5335-00 · Propane 9,000.00 5340-00 · Registration Material 10,000.00 5350-00 · Staff Meals 19,000.00 5360-99 · Miscellaneous

5250-00 · Contract Classes 5255-00 · Diesel Fuel 5260-00 · Equipment 5265-00 · Facility Rental Fee

5600-00 · General/Administrative Expenses 7,000.00 5650-00 · Advertising/Marketing 5,000.00 5650-05 · Fire School Tshirts 500.00 Total 5650-00 · Advertising/Marketing 12,500.00 5700-00 · Computer 5700-08 · Software 254,925.00

5750-00 · Donations/Memorials 500.00 5800-00 · GZ Credit Card Fees 11,000.00 5850-00 · Insurance Expenses 500.00 5850-04 · Property-Gen Liability-Auto 500.00 5850-08 · Work Comp Insurance 6,000.00 Total 5850-00 · Insurance Expenses 2,000.00 5900-00 · NSVFA Support Payment 300.00 6000-00 · Office Supplies 1,000.00 6150-00 · Taxes 3,300.00 Total 5600-00 · General/Administrative Expenses 21,800.00 Total Expense

Page 1

37,950.00 8,500.00 35,000.00 500.00 600.00 5,500.00 600.00 700.00 3,000.00 3,300.00 2,000.00 4,000.00 1,500.00 1,000.00 172,800.00

4,500.00 4,500.00 2,454.33 2,454.33

Total 5700-00 · Computer

Total 5245-00 · Committee23,000.00 Expense @ Fire School 1,500.00 5250-00 · Contract Classes2,000.00 6,000.00 5255-00 · Diesel Fuel 5260-00 · Equipment 5265-00 · Facility Rental Fee

8,000.00 8,000.00 500.00 1,200.00 20,000.00 250.00

38,000.00

Total 5200-00 · FS Expenses

Total 5100-00 · FS Committee Expense 5200-00 · FS Expenses 400.00 5215-00 · Awards 5200-00 · FS Expenses 7,500.00 5230-00 · Bus Rental Net Ordinary Income 5215-00 · Awards 1,750.00 5240-00 · Classroom Rental 5245-00 · Committee Expense @ Fire5230-00 School · Bus Rental Net Income 5240-00 · Classroom 22,000.00 Rental 5245-03 · Lodging 5245-00 · Committee Expense @ Fire School 1,500.00 5245-05 · Meal Stipend 5245-03 · Lodging 3,000.00 5245-06 · Mileage 5245-05 · Meal Stipend 26,500.00 Total 5245-00 · Committee Expense @ Fire School · Mileage 5245-06

Jul '25 - Jun 26

400.00 7,500.00 1,750.00 22,000.00 1,500.00 3,000.00 26,500.00 23,000.00 1,500.00 2,000.00 6,000.00

100.00 4,000.00 4,700.00 1,000.00 5,700.00 25,000.00 250.00 1,000.00 43,004.33 237,604.33 17,320.67 17,320.67

18,000.00

Retainer

January 2026 • Nebraska Firefighter • 11 18,920.00

Total Legal

2:10 PM

NSVFA

NSVFA

Legislative Breakfast Gifts Lodging NSVFAA NSVFA Lodging Rental July 2025 through JuneVenue 2026

Profit & Loss Budget Overview

12/12/25 Profit & Loss Budget Overview Cash Basis July 2025 through June 2026

Income Income Annual Conference Proceeds Annual Conference Proceeds Annual Conference Registration Annual Conference Registration 2,500.00 Banquet Ticket Banquet Ticket 2,000.00 Old Timers Luncheon 12,500.00 Registration Old Timers Luncheon 3,500.00 Sponsorship

Total Annual Conference Proceeds Fire Chief & FS Annual Payment Forest Service 50-50 Fire Preve Membership Dues Gold Badge Associate Member Newspaper Subscription NSVFA Dues Total Membership Dues NSVFA Misc. Income Shirt Sales

Registration Sponsorship

20,500.00

20,500.00 Total Annual Conference Registration 28,000.00

Total Annual Conference Proceeds 250.00 Fire Chief & FS Annual Payment 300.00 100.00 Forest Service 50-50 Fire Preve 260,000.00 Membership Dues Gold Badge Associate Member 260,400.00 Newspaper Subscription NSVFA Dues 500.00

Total NSVFA Misc. Income

Total Membership Dues

Other Income ELAN Credit Services NSVFA Investment Income Savvik Buying Group Fees

NSVFA Misc. Income Shirt Sales

Total Other Income Sponsorship Program Business Membership Digital Marketing Total Sponsorship Program Total Income Gross Profit Expense 2016 Utility Trailer AAM Management Management Fee Meal Stipend Mileage Photocopies Total AAM Management

400.00 500.00 100.00 1,000.00

Other Income ELAN Credit Services 1,500.00 NSVFA Investment Income 500.00 Savvik Buying Group Fees

312,650.00

Sponsorship Program Business Membership Digital Marketing

312,650.00 30.00

Total Sponsorship Program 87,000.00 2:10 PM

Gross Profit

Mileage Photocopies

300.00 12/12/25 300.00 Cash Basis 3,000.00

Total Legal Legislative Breakfast Gifts Lodging NSVFAA NSVFA Lodging Venue Rental Total Legislative Breakfast Lobbyist Expense Lobbying Services

300.00 120.00 500.00 18,000.00 Fallen FF Memorial Service

Total Computer

Fire Prevention Expense 18,920.00 GZ Credit Card Fees Insurance 1,300.00 AD&D 300.00 Bond 2,000.00 200.00

3,800.00 39,500.00

250.00

20,500.00

250.00

20,500.00

Misc Museum Support 28,000.00 Newspaper Publish 250.00 NSVFA Clothing NSVFA Committee Exp Conference 300.00 Lodging 100.00 Meal Stipend 260,000.00 Mileage Misc Committee Expense 260,400.00 NVFC DC Mtg Expense NVFC DC Lodging NVFC DC Meal Stipend NVFC DC Mileage 500.00 NVFC DC Registration NVFC DC Travel Expense 500.00

800.00 5,200.00 25,500.00 500.00 500.00 10,000.00 1,000.00 4,000.00 500.00 500.00 160.00 600.00 275.00 50.00 1,585.00

Total NVFC DC Mtg Expense

Total NSVFA Committee Exp

300.00 1,200.00 500.00

400.00 500.00 100.00

19,585.00

1,000.00

NSVFA Officer Annual Stipend NVFC Expense Dues 1,500.00 Lodging 500.00 Meal Stipend Mileage Misc 2,000.00 NSVFA NVFC Director Stipend Registration Fees 312,650.00 Travel Expense July 2025 through June 2026

2,575.00

Profit & Loss Budget Overview

Total Office Supplies

Computer 6,507.00 Jul '25 - Jun 26 Constant Contact GrowthZone

Total Insurance

Total Memorials

Office Supplies NSVFA Office Supplies

4,338.33

42,675.00

3,500.00 Memorials Memorial & Flowers

2,750.00 14,000.00 4,500.00

Profit & Loss Budget Overview

Legal Lodging Meal Stipend Mileage Retainer

2,000.00

Total NVFC Expense

1,884.00 2,454.33

39,500.00 500.00 800.00 1,750.00 50.00 75.00

Total Lobbyist Expense 12,500.00

90,600.00

500.00 Fallen FF Memorial Service Total AAM Management 500.00 Fire Prevention Expense NSVFA 3,000.00 GZ Credit Card Fees Accounting/Tax Preparation Insurance 6,282.00 Annual Conference Reimbursement AD&D July 2025 through June 2026 225.00 Bond Awards Total Insurance

Lobbyist Expense Jul '25 - Jun 26 Lobbying Services Lodging Meal Stipend Mileage Misc Expense 2,500.00 Photocopy

President's Gift (watch) President Token Gifts Uniform Expense

2,000.00

Total Other Income

Expense Accounting/Tax Preparation 2016 Utility Trailer Annual Conference Reimbursement Awards AAM Management Computer Management Fee Constant Contact Meal Stipend GrowthZone Total Computer

500.00

Total NSVFA Misc. Income

Total Income

3,800.00

Total Legislative Breakfast

Jul '25 - Jun 26

Total Annual Conference Registration

1,300.00 300.00 2,000.00 200.00

Postage Expense NSVFA Postage Total Postage Expense Taxes & License Telephone Conference Call Total Telephone Website Total Expense Page 1 Net Income

312,650.00

700.00 4,000.00 600.00 2,000.00 200.00 400.00 1,500.00 3,500.00

Jul '25 - Jun 26

30.00 87,000.00 300.00 300.00 3,000.00 90,600.00 2,750.00 14,000.00 4,500.00 1,884.00 2,454.33 4,338.33

12,900.00

1,800.00 1,800.00 3,000.00 3,000.00 200.00 212.88 212.88 300.00 264,943.21 47,706.79

500.00 500.00 3,000.00 6,282.00 225.00 6,507.00 Page 1

12 • Nebraska Firefighter • January 2026

Friday night fire destroys family’s Grand Island home Electrical issue identified as cause of blaze A Grand Island family literally lost house and home Friday night when an electrical issue caused a fire on the outside ofthe structure.

Karen Campbell of Grand Island created a GoFundMe page for her

parents, who lost their home at 608 W. 10th St. “Thankfully, they made it out safely, but the fire destroyed almost everything they own,” Campbell said, “They’re now left without a home, clothing or many of the essentials they need.”

Battalion Chief Scott Kuehl said the Fire Department received the call at 8:09 p.m. Friday. The fire

started on the outside of the house and progressed inside.

Two doors that were left open allowed the fire to progress more quickly, he said.

All four Grand Island fire stations responded to the fully involved structure fire.

“They were met with heavy fire conditions,” Kuehl said.

Four engine companies, an am-

bulance and the battalion chief on duty responded. Grand Island police assisted with traffic control. Grand Island Utilities shut off power to the structure, he said, while Northwestern Energy locked off natural gas.

Kuehl confirmed that all of the occupants were out of the structure when firefighters arrived.

The blaze was extinguished by

8:50p.m., he said. The American Red Cross was called to assist the family with housing for at least one night.

The monetary loss was estimated at $100,000 for the structure and $80,000 for contents, Kuehl said.

He noted the importance of closing doors to the outside and even doors to rooms inside a house.

“That limits the air the fire gets,” Kuehl said.

“We’re still in shock and trying to figure out our next steps,” Campbell said on the GoFundMe page.

“The immediate costs of temporary housing, replacing necessities and beginning the long road to recovery are overwhelming.”

Donations can be made to the family on GoFundMe by searching for “Helping My Parents Rebuild After the Fire.”

(Written by R.J. Post, Grand Island Independent, Grand Island, December 9, 2025)

Broken Bow house fire broke out early Monday The Broken Bow Police Department responded to a structure fire on the 1300 Block of South 6th Avenue on Monday, December 1, 2025, at approximately 3:30 a.m.

Upon arrival, the on-duty officer found the residence fully engulfed in flames. The officer immediately requested the Broken Bow Volunteer Fire Department and attempted to enter the home to check for any occupants. Due to the intensity and advanced stage of the fire, the officer was unable to safely enter the structure.

The Broken Bow Volunteer Fire Department arrived on scene and successfully extinguished the fire.

After the fire was suppressed, responders located a deceased individual inside the residence. The victim has been identified as Jeffery A. Jones, a white male from Broken Bow. This incident remains under active investigation.

The Broken Bow Police Department extends its gratitude to the Broken Bow Volunteer Fire Department, the Broken Bow City Streets Department, and the Broken Bow Utilities Department for their assistance and coordinated response.

(KRVN, Nebraska Rural Radio Association, December 2, 2025)

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January 2026 • Nebraska Firefighter • 13

Norfolk training

While not responding to emergency calls on Nov. 19, Norfolk Fire and Rescue C-shift trained on search and rescue, hose advancement, ventilation and rescuing a downed firefighter.

From the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Facebook page.

ACTION FIRE PHOTOS NEEDED! Please send them to jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com

along with information to explain the photo.

YOU SHOULD HAVE YOUR DEPARTMENT FEATURED! Just fill out the attached form and send it back with a group photo and we’ll feature your department in an upcoming issue of the Nebraska Firefighter Newspaper.

Submitter’s Name___________________________________Submitter’s Phone #_____________________________________________ Department Name:__________________________________ Total Number of Members:________________________________________ # Volunteer_______________ # Paid____________________Year Department Established:______________________________________ # Fires Per year___________ # Rescue/Extrication Calls Per Year___________ Is Your Dept. Fire & EMS Combined?___________________ # Pumpers__________# Tankers_____________ # Rescue ____________ # Ambulance___________ Other:________________________ Names in picture: (on separate form please) Please type the names as they appear in the photo. For best reproduction, please send or e-mail the actual photo and not a photocopy or scanned copy.

Mail to: Nebraska Firefighter Newspaper, PO Box 122, Humboldt, IA 50548 E-mail to: jeff@nebraskafirefighter.com

Officer’s Name:

Office:

___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________ ___________________________

________________________ ________________________ ________________________ ________________________ ________________________

14 • Nebraska Firefighter • January 2026

Norfolk Fire and Rescue participates in annual ice rescue training Norfolk Fire and Rescue C-Shift spent time out at Skyview Lake on Dec. 16 doing annual ice rescue training. Crews trained on rescuing victims and self-rescue techniques. They want to remind everyone to be extremely careful right now on any body of water. The fluctuation in temperatures is creating inconsistent and in many cases unsafe ice. From the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Facebook page.

JOIN OUR TEAM!

APPLY NOW!

NOW HIRING Ron Wetter

SALE REPRESENTATIVE

785-210-7782

ron@deltafas.com

1 dead in Friday afternoon central Lincoln fire A victim has died as the result of a camper fire Friday afternoon, Lincoln Fire and Rescue has confirmed.

Firefighters were called to the 2500 block of Theresa Street and arrived to find a camper engulfed in flames near a mobile home park in north central Lincoln.

Lincoln Fire and Rescue spokeswoman MJ Lierman said as the initial crew worked to put out the fire, they found a victim.

Despite efforts to save the person, she said, the person died at the scene.

A man was said to have been living there.

Lierman said a fire inspector and Lincoln Police were investigating at the scene.

(Written by Lincoln journal Star, Grand island Independent, Grand Island, November 29, 2025)

January 2026 • Nebraska Firefighter • 15

Dwight Volunteer Fire Department assists Ulysses at house fire Dwight Volunteer Fire Department responded to a house fire yesterday as mutual aid to Ulysses along with Rising City and David City. We hate to see tragedy like this but are thankful that nobody was injured and that we have great departments to work with. Our thoughts go out to the homeowners. From the Dwight Volunteer Fire Department Facebook page.

Beaver Lake house fire sends one to hospital Saturday evening, a Beaver Lake home went up in flames. Two days later, it's still smoking.

Wind from the storm sent cinders flying through the air while the cedar cabin burned. Incident Commander Joe Spicciati said the call came in just before 6 p.m. for an accidental fire possibly caused by a wood burner.

Fifty responders from nearby Murray, Plattsmouth and Nehawka, along with Cass County Emer-

gency Management, fought the flames until 8 a.m.

The cold and snow were a blessing and a curse — keeping the fire from spreading but freezing water on the firefighters' gear, weighing them down. Spicciati said two of his crew were treated for overexertion but have fully recovered.

Neighbors declined to go on camera but told KETV the man who lived there was very nice, even throwing pool parties for

them in the summer. They're keeping up with his condition and told KETV that he should survive his injuries. They are doing what they can in support like caring for his beloved dog.

They started a GoFundMe for him to find housing once he's out of the hospital. They're hoping he plans to rebuild.

(KETV, Omaha, December 1, 2025)

16 • Nebraska Firefighter • January 2026

Pierce November drill focuses on ladder rescues, search and RIT

Pierce Fire and Rescue’s November drill was training on removing victims on ladders, search and rescue, RIT, and downed firefighters. From the Pierce Fire and Rescue Facebook page.

January 2026 • Nebraska Firefighter • 17

Nebraskan started selling ‘grief cards’ after crushing tragedies struck her Angie Hanson started the morning the same as every other work day. She took her 1-year- old son, Garret, to day care, gave him a kiss and a hug, told him she’d see him later that day, then headed to work.

Hours later came a phone call delivering every parent’s worst nightmare. Garret wouldn’t wake up from his nap.

Garret’s death on June 27, 2006, was the first of a trio of tragedies that would upend life for Hanson and her family. Her son died, then her husband, then her brother. The small burgeoning family in Waterloo was down to Angie and her then-7-year-old daughter, Gracie.

“It was the darkest moment of my life, because our whole family had lost people,” she recalled.

More than a decade later, it motivated her to start a small business selling what she calls “grief cards.” Unlike traditional greeting cards, they aim to deliver honest and often humorous messages for life’s difficult days.

Since founding Butterflies and Halos in 2021, Hanson has built a following, with many expressing appreciation for the honesty, snark and thoughtfulness of Hanson’s messages. The business has expanded beyond cards and beyond grief, adding items for more joyous occasions, such as birthdays.

For people like Suzanne Robinson of Omaha, Butterflies and Halos has helped with the healing process. Still struggling with the death of her father, Ken Petersen, a decade ago, a friend gifted Robinson one of Hanson’s candles earlier this year.

“I was touched that I had a friend who understood the significance of the loss of my father to me and was thoughtful enough to give me a gift that would express that to me in a beautiful, meaningful way,” Robinson said. *** Angie Hanson — then Angie Rittenhouse — had no clue about the heart condition that ultimately killed Garret. She and husband Jack Rittenhouse would learn of it only after Garret had been rushed to the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha and pronounced dead.

He had a kink in his right coronary artery, a condition that can trigger sudden death during periods of extreme activity or rest, she said.

The couple was determined not to let Garret become just a memory. Using money they received as memorials for their son, Angie and Jack bought 13 automated external defibrillators, which they donated to police and volunteer fire departments in Waterloo, Valley and Elkhorn, Hanson said.

First responders also held a special place in thefamily.Jackhadbeenavolunteerfirefighter with Waterloo Fire and Rescue since 1996. He played a key role

in convincing the fire district to build a new fire house.

Before Garret’s sudden death, Jack and Angie’s life had largely played out like they envisioned.

The high school sweethearts married, bought a house near their hometown and started a family — first Gracie, then Garret. Jack had been diagnosed with melanoma after finding a spot on an arm when he was 21. But he caught it early and appeared to be fine afterward.

Then in 2007, a year after burying their son, Jack started having pain and vision issues in an eye. It turned out to be cancer. It spread to his liver, spleen and brain. Sixteen months later, he was dead.

Months later, Waterloo Fire and Rescue dedicated the firehouse to Jack’s memory. A plaque is located near its entrance.

Jack’s cancer battle wasn’t the family’s first. Angie’s younger brother, Seth Embrey, lived in a small house on Angie and Jack’s acreage between Waterloo and Valley. In 2004, he had a brain tumor removed. It was the start of a five-year battle that Seth wouldn’t win.

Two months after Jack’s passing, Embrey died. He was 30 years old.

At 36, Angie had lost three of the closest people in her life.

“Who was I to lean on? My parents had lost a son, a son-in-law and a grandson. Jack’s parents were the same. My siblings, they had lost the same type of people.

So that was a big hurdle. My biggest blessing was that I did have a good community of friends. *** It took years for Angie to stop feeling lost. Initially, she thought it would be helpful for her and Gracie to travel — to try to get away from the pain. It didn’t work. Reality was always there to greet them.

She did find some relief in therapy and in journaling, which allowed her to express her thoughtsandfeelings.She would break out in tears, then journal until the tears stopped.

“I didn’t see it then, but looking back at it now, I can see it was very dark in the beginning, and then ... you can see the change in the tone of my voice and my thoughts. And then a year goes by and you could see the hope,” she said.

Part of that hope came in the form of Chance Hanson, the brother of one of Angie’s best friends. They started dating about a year after Jack’s death and married two years later. Angie feels fortunate that before Jack died, the two had the chance to talk about her life after his passing.

As he was in hospice, Jack gave his blessing for Angie to love again.

After their marriage, the family SEE CARDS, PAGE 18

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Neligh Volunteer Fire Department training included a controlled burn with hands-on experience on Dec. 7. From the Neligh Volunteer Fire Department Facebook page.

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Northeast Nebraska authorities respond to house fire, crash and semi fire on Tuesday At about 10 a.m. on Tuesday, the Stanton County Sheriff’s Office were called to a house fire in a rural area east of Norfolk.

The home was located north of the Highway 275 and 562nd Avenue intersection, and when authorities got there, smoke had filled the building.

“Sheriff Unger and Emergency Manager Mike Frohberg entered the house and found two people still in the smoke-filled residence trying to put out the fire and evacuate several cats‚“ stated a press release from the Stanton County Sheriff’s Office.

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from the house, and Sheriff Unger and Frohberg were able to put out the fire in the kitchen by using a fire extinguisher.

After Stanton Fire arrived, the house was ventilated. Authorities say no one was injured and the cats were also unharmed.

“The house interior suffered significant damage in the kitchen area and smoke damage throughout‚“ stated the sheriff’s office.

SEMI’S TRAILER CATCHES FIRE ON HIGHWAY 24

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No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire was undetermined.

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Traffic was rerouted around the semi for more than an hour as crews dealt with the fire.

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CRASH NEAR THE HIGHWAY 24 SEMI TRAILER FIRE

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stopped traffic, striking the sedan at “highway speeds,” according to witnesses.

“The suburban then continued onto the shoulder, striking another vehicle‚“ stated the sheriff’s office.

The sedan’s driver, a 40-yearold woman from the town of Stanton, Nebraska, was taken to the hospital in Norfolk. The 62-yearold driver of the suburban was uninjured, and the sheriff’s office says they were cited for “following too close.”

“A one-month-old was also checked at the scene and found to be o.k. after being inside a vehicle involved in the collision‚“ stated the sheriff’s office.

(Dean Welte, KTIV, Stanton, November 25, 2025)

Cards

FROM PAGE 17

moved to Valley and life started to feel normal. *** Sixteen years after her grief began with losing Garret, Angie Hanson found herself looking for the “perfect card” for an ill friend. It proved challenging.

“I was tired of cards that say nothing, that mean nothing, and I just feel like there’s so much more,” she said.

One night, while not being able to sleep, her mind popped with grieving card thoughts. What would she want to tell a friend who had just lost a husband?

The first card she designed leaned heavily on sarcasm: “I don’t know what to say. Let’s go eat one of those damn casseroles.”

The ideas flowed like a waterfall. She asked friends their thoughts and created several more grieving cards. The cards hatched into a business: Butterflies and Halos.

Butterflies and Halos quickly found a market.

One of those early cards simply said “F*@+ Cancer.” Another one offered simple wisdom: “There are no rules — grief and happiness can exist together.”

The business expanded notebooks, stickers, candles and more. Products also expanded beyond grief to include birthdays, holidays and graduations. Hanson now offers her services as a “griefcoach”?

Hanson says the feedback she has received from appreciative customers has been fulfilling. People like Robinson, the Omaha woman who was gifted a Butterflies and Halos candle. She uses the candle to celebrate special events related to her father.

(Written by Stanton Register, Stanton, December 3, 2025)