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Pleasant Prairie Fire Department news
Experts from kenoshanews.com shared this inspiring story:
Doug McElmury was just 18 when he found himself unexpectedly thrust into action during a dramatic rescue at Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo. An enthusiastic rock climber, Doug and a buddy had visited the park to climb the cliffs when they were approached by a frantic mother seeking help for her daughter who had fallen 60 feet off the rocks. Although they weren't official rescuers, their experience with climbing proved invaluable.
"I got to the girl, and the rangers arrived soon after," McElmury recalled, now the fire chief of the village for the past five years. "But the rangers lacked training in rope rescue." Together with authorities, Doug and his friend successfully brought the injured girl to safety. She had hit a ledge 40 feet down before falling an additional 20 feet.
After the incident, Doug discussed his aspirations with the emergency responders, who suggested joining the local fire department. In 1981, he began volunteering with the Wheatland Fire Department and later worked part-time with an ambulance service in Lake Geneva while pursuing his passion for firefighting.
Simultaneously, Doug honed his skills by offering rope rescue training to local firefighters. His expertise caught the attention of Pleasant Prairie Fire Chief Paul Guilbert, who encouraged him to apply for a position at their department. Over time, Doug climbed the ranks—first becoming a training officer, then a captain, and eventually assistant chief.
In 2011, following Guilbert's retirement, McElmury stepped into the role of interim chief and eventually became the department's leader. Under his leadership, the department expanded significantly. A second station opened in 2015 at 3801 Springbrook Road, featuring modern facilities like larger apparatus bays, specialized equipment such as a Zodiac boat, and semi-private sleeping quarters.
This year, Doug oversaw the introduction of a brand-new $1.1 million ladder truck, replacing one that had served the department for nearly as long as he had. Throughout his career, he emphasized teamwork and credited the firefighters, support staff, and village administration for their dedication and support.
As he prepares to retire, Doug plans to continue sharing his knowledge by working part-time as a trainer for a California-based company specializing in the type of rope gear that first connected him to rescue work.
"I'm excited to travel across the country teaching rope rescue techniques," he said. "It's something I truly love."
Thanks for sharing, Dan!