Feb. 7, 2017 – West Bend, WI – On Sept. 26, 2016 the West Bend Fire Department was requested to respond for a fire and possible explosion with an 18 year old trapped in the basement.
Units that were en route were advised there was heavy smoke coming from the structure. On scene Lt. Al Hefter and Motor Pump Operator Kyle Demler were advised by a family member that his sister was trapped in the basement.
After interviewing the brother for the location of the steps and possible location of his sister, they made entry. Lt. Hefter entered the structure extinguishing fire as he navigated his way through almost zero visibility.
MPO Demler met up with Lt. Hefter and they continued their efforts.
After a short search they were able to locate the victim who was unconscious on the couch. The pair pulled the victim from the home to the front yard where rescue efforts continued. The victim was unconscious but breathing.
The fire conditions worsened and the structural integrity of the building was deteriorating fast. It is the West Bend Fire Departments belief that Lt. Hefter and MPO Demler put those conditions aside while completing their task of saving the young girl. 
They went above the call of duty that day.
For their efforts the WBFD is honoring these two members with the Lifesaving Award. This award is presented to members for saving a life of another. The Lifesaving Award is based on an intentional act to save another person’s life and the members take substantial steps in saving a life where the person would have otherwise suffered a grave consequence.
Thank you Lt. Hefter and MPO Demler for your actions.
