The Storm Lake Fire Department has released its annual report, highlighting a year of service, training, and community outreach.
Chief Terence Sinner says firefighters responded to 440 calls in 2025, including 28 fires that caused property loss. The department covers 93 square miles across Storm Lake and surrounding townships and is staffed by three full‑time staff and 21 paid‑on‑call professionals, operating from its station on Oneida Street.
According to the report, fire prevention was a major focus last year.
The department completed 410 inspections, including rental units, schools, and municipal buildings, identifying 51 violations—all corrected within the required timeframe for a 100 percent compliance rate. Investigators examined 13 fires last year, while public education efforts reached more than 1,500 youth through events like Fire Prevention Week, Kids Fest, and Chills & Thrills. In total, the department conducted 134 public education activities.
Training remained a cornerstone of readiness throughout 2025.
Firefighters logged more than 1,792 hours of training across disciplines such as CPR, fire suppression, technical rescue, and officer development. Specialized sessions included high‑angle rescue, ice rescue, livestock rollover response, and traffic incident management. Several members earned new certifications, strengthening the department’s operational capability.
Last year also brought personnel changes.
Former Fire Chief Glenn Schlesser departed, while longtime firefighters Mike Nebitt, Brandon Ripke, and Sam Ortman retired. Three new recruits Luke Ehlers, Andrew Kutz, and Anderson Zamora joined the ranks.
Chief Sinner expressed gratitude for the dedication of his staff, noting their sacrifices reflect character, commitment, and credit upon themselves and the community. He says the department looks forward to expanding outreach and improving services in 2026.
The full annual report is available on the City of Storm Lake’s website—stormlake.org—under the fire department page.
