06/13/2026
Training Success – MABAS Division 142 Search & Rescue Exercise
Today, the Weyauwega Area Fire Department had the privilege of hosting a large-scale Search & Rescue training exercise for firefighters and EMS personnel from across Waupaca County and MABAS Division 142.
A sincere thank you to the members of the Weyauwega, Waupaca Area Fire District, Ogdensburg/ St.Lawrence FIRE and EMS, Manawa Rural Fire Departmenta, New London Wisconsin Fire Department, Marion Area Fire Department, Clintonville Fire Department, Embarrass, WI Volunteer Fire Department, and Amherst Fire District, along with Gold Cross Ems, for participating in today’s event. In total, more than 55 firefighters and EMS personnel took part in the exercise.
Participants were divided into four search teams and assigned separate wooded search areas throughout the Town of Weyauwega. Each area presented unique challenges, including steep hills, rocky terrain, swampy conditions, dense vegetation, and limited access.
Teams were provided only limited information and GPS coordinates to begin their missions. Their objective was to develop a search plan, systematically cover their assigned area, locate the missing subject, and ensure no portion of the search area was overlooked.
Scenarios included:
🌲 A hunter stranded in a tree stand
🌿 A victim trapped in a swamp
🌊 A subject in distress in a river
🪨 A patient entrapped by boulders following a simulated landslide
Throughout the exercise, teams maintained communication with their Command Officer located at the off-site Incident Command Post. Once patients were located, crews were required to assess their condition, report findings, and request the personnel, tools, and resources necessary to safely and effectively complete the rescue.
Exercises like this strengthen the relationships between neighboring departments, improve communication, and provide valuable hands-on experience that prepares responders for real emergencies when lives are on the line.
A special thank you goes to Quantum dairy for generously allowing us to use their property and surrounding areas to conduct this training. Opportunities like this are invaluable and greatly appreciated.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Chuck Fritz MABAS Division 142 Secretary/Treasurer, and his lovely wife for making the trip to Oshkosh to Firehouse Subs and bringing back lunch for everyone in attendance. Your generosity and support helped keep our participants fueled and ready for a full day of training.
Finally, thank you to the Weyauwega Area Fire Department Training Committee for the countless hours spent planning, coordinating, and building realistic scenarios. Their dedication and attention to detail made this one of the most comprehensive and realistic training events our members have experienced.
Training together today helps ensure we are ready to serve together tomorrow
