St. Paul Fire Department Marks 80 Years — Chief Kotowich Says the Door’s Open for New Volunteers

The St. Paul Fire Department just hit 80 years — which, if you’re keeping score, is longer than most of our trucks have stayed running through a Lakeland winter. To celebrate, Fire Chief Trevor Kotowich stopped by to talk history, service, and how you (yes, you) can suit up as a volunteer firefighter.

“I’ve served my entire fire career right here in St. Paul,” said Kotowich. “I joined back in the ‘90s, and in 2011 I became Fire Chief. To now see our department hit 80 years, it’s pretty special — not just for us, but for the whole community.”

Eighty years isn’t just a number. It’s barn fires fought, car accidents responded to, and more late-night calls than any volunteer’s spouse probably cares to count. It’s also proof that in St. Paul, neighbours show up for neighbours.

And that’s the key — showing up. Kotowich says the department is always looking for folks willing to step forward. “Being a volunteer firefighter takes commitment,” he explained. “You don’t need to have all the skills when you walk in the door. We’ll train you. What we need are people who are dedicated, willing to learn, and ready to be part of a team.”

Sounds simple until you realize that “part of a team” sometimes means hauling a hose at 3am in minus-30. But that’s exactly the kind of grit that’s built into the Lakeland way of life.

Kotowich says the department’s strength has always been its people. “We’ve had volunteers serve 20, 30, even 40 years. That kind of service doesn’t happen unless you believe in your community. If we don’t have a fire service, we don’t have a community — it’s that important.”

Think about that: no fire service, no community. No one wants to live in a town where a kitchen fire can take out half the block before sunrise. It’s the kind of reminder that makes you grateful someone’s willing to grab the gear when the pager goes off.

So here’s the pitch: if you’ve ever thought about it — even once while watching the sirens roll past — now’s the time. “Come talk to us,” Kotowich said. “We’ll explain the process, we’ll get you into training, and you’ll see right away what it means to be part of the department. It’s one of the most rewarding things you can do.”

Eighty years in, the St. Paul Fire Department is still answering the call. The only question is — are you ready to answer it too?