Winona Fire Department

05/30/2026

Over the past 5 months Assistant Chief Czaplewski has put in countless hours teaching our newest part-time firefighters how to be the best public servants possible. This morning they completed their initial training and will soon be responding to emergencies. Congratulations to you all!

05/13/2026

The Winona Fire Department has taken delivery of a new rescue e-bike that was purchased through a generous grant from the Winona Community Foundation

This piece of equipment will help our firefighters respond quickly to medical incidents on the more than 20 miles of bike trails within the City of Winona. The fat-tire design allows for response in all terrain and challenging weather conditions. The e-bike turns a 25 minute, uphill hike into a 7 minute ride allowing for faster medical treatment by our paramedics.

This bike will also be used during community events to support emergency response where there are mobility challenges.

We would also like to thank Alicia Lano and Laura Hoberg from Winona Park & Recreation for their work in securing this funding. 🚲🚒

04/15/2026

On a mutual aid request, the Winona Fire Department responded to Lock and Dam 6 to assist the Winona County Sheriff's Office with the recovery of a deceased female located in the river.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased.

04/07/2026

Women Explore Fire Day MN is a hands-on event designed to inspire, educate, and empower women interested in firefighting and emergency services. Rochester, MN Fire Dept. is hosting the Region 15 event.

You can find more information at Women Explore Fire Day in Minnesota or on their website at womenexplorefire.com

04/05/2026

The Winona Fire Department has been assisting the Winona Police Department and Winona County Sheriff's Office this past week in the search for Patricia Sweningson who was last seen in mid-March

03/30/2026

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Prescribed burns today in Winona

If the weather allows, Winona will be conducting prescribed burns in the Garvin Heights overlook area and in the wetland zones in the south side of East Lake Winona on Monday 3/30.

The overlook will be open during the burning, but the East Lake bike path on the south/highway side of the lake will be closed Monday afternoon beginning at noon.

Photo credit: Gabe Ericksen

Winona Park & Recreation Garvin Heights Natural Area: Blufflands Restoration Project

03/15/2026

At approximately 1548 hours this afternoon, the Winona Fire Department was dispatched to a possible electrical fire on the 650 block of Harriet Street. Firefighters arrived on scene to find light smoke coming from the structure. Off-duty personnel were called in. Fire was found in the walls and attic of the home. The fire was quickly extinguished. The occupant of the building was able to get out on their own. The building was in poor condition prior to the fire, and the fire caused additional damage to the structure. No injuries were reported. The American Red Cross in Minnesota is assisting the displaced residents. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The Winona Police Department, Winona Area Ambulance Service and Xcel Energy assisted at the scene.

We would also like to thank the City of Winona Street Department for having the streets cleared so we could respond to the incident in the poor weather conditions.

02/21/2026

Shortly after 1800 hours this evening the Winona Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire on the 300 block of Emherst Street. The three occupants of the house, including a wheelchair bound subject, were able to exit the residence on their own. The Winona Police Department and Winona Area Ambulance Service personnel assisted the occupants to an ambulance to be evaluated and stay warm. The fire was quickly extinguished by firefighters. The fire caused moderate damage to the kitchen. The residence also sustained smoke and heat damage throughout. The American Red Cross in Minnesota was contacted to assist the displaced residents. There were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Winona Public Works and Winona County Sheriff's Office assisted at the scene.

01/06/2026

Engine 3 is 10-8.

The Winona Fire Department took delivery of our new 2025 Pierce Enforcer on New Year’s Eve. It was placed in service this afternoon and is already responding to incidents out of the West Fire Station.

12/28/2025

Avoid unnecessary travel. Stay home if you can.

🚨 Weather Alert 🚨

Snow is falling rapidly, winds are expected to increase, and temperatures are dropping quickly. MnDOT has issued a No Travel Advised on all state highways in Southeast Minnesota.

If you can, please stay home and avoid unnecessary travel. Road conditions are deteriorating rapidly. Your safety is our top priority—stay warm and stay safe. ❄️🚔