The partnership between SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital and the Waupun Fire Department stands as a shining example of how public and private entities can work together to enhance community safety and well-being.

“It has truly been, and continues to be, a great partnership,” according to Brian Fryman, SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital Plant Operations & Maintenance director. “We are very blessed and proud to have the Waupun Fire Department’s support and commitment to compliance and safety for our patients, visitors, and staff.”

The collaboration has proven vital in both routine and emergency situations. “Whether it be a minor gas leak or a major catastrophic event, we know the combined partnership of continuous learning, inspections, preparation, and devotion between Waupun Memorial Hospital and the Waupun Fire Department will be ready to face any circumstance the community is confronted with,” Fryman adds.

Fire Chief B.J. DeMaa echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the operational and strategic benefits of the partnership.

“From joint training exercises to real-world emergency responses, our teams have continually demonstrated a commitment to excellence and preparedness,” according to Chief DeMaa. “The multiple casualty incident drills and hazardous materials/decontamination training exercises we’ve conducted together have not only strengthened inter-agency coordination but have directly enhanced our ability to respond effectively when seconds matter most.”

Chief DeMaa also highlighted the importance of real-time coordination during emergencies.

“The hospital’s leadership and staff have worked closely with our crews to coordinate operations in real time,” Chief DeMaa shares. “These cooperative efforts have contributed to successful outcomes and reflect the high level of professionalism and the shared mission between our teams.”

The collaboration benefits not only the organizations involved but also the broader community.

“Through this collaboration, patients, residents, and team members are the ones who benefit most,” Chief DeMaa says. “The relationship between SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital and the Waupun Fire Department is a model of effective public-private collaboration.”

To celebrate this ongoing partnership and extend its deepest appreciation, SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital recently showed its appreciation by treating the team to pizza. “We value this partnership in so many ways,” according to Fryman, “and this is just one of many ways that we share our gratitude.”