Before the holiday cookies and chaos…we got nerdy. 🧪🚒 Back in December, instructors from the Appleton Fire Department and Oshkosh Fire Department Hazardous Materials teams trained 133 firefighters from various local fire departments in chemical ID and decontamination.

Congrats to Division Chief of EMS Ryan Homman on being selected for the 2025 Employee of the Year! Chief Homman has been recognized for his outstanding leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to service. In 2025 he led the launch of our Advanced Life Support program.

Please help us congratulate Driver/Engineer Kraig Kasten on his retirement. Kraig retires with 27 years of service to the citizens of the City of Appleton. Kraig, thank you for your many years of public service and enjoy your retirement!

🎉 Happy New Year from Appleton Fire Department! 🎉

Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. #SmokeAlarms #MonthlyReminder

🎄 Dispose of Trees Properly Dried-out Christmas trees are a major fire hazard. Dispose of your tree promptly after the holidays. Never leave it in the garage or propped against your home.

🔥 A dry tree is not the vibe this season. Water it like it’s your favorite houseplant (but prettier). It’s the holiday glow you actually want! 💦🎄

Heating up leftovers? 🔥 When in Doubt, Get Out! If you’re unsure about handling a small fire, evacuate and call 911. Close doors behind you to help contain the fire until help arrives.

🔥 Did You Know? Holiday Cooking Fires Surge Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve are the top days for home cooking fires. Avoid distractions, and always watch the stove. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of kitchen fires!

🚪 Have an Escape Plan In case of a fire, make sure all exits are clear and that everyone in your home knows how to get out safely. Practice your fire escape plan during the holiday season.

🍪 Cook With Care Did you know unattended cooking is the leading cause of home fires? Stay in the kitchen while frying, grilling, or broiling. If you leave the room, turn off the stove. Let’s keep holiday meals safe and delicious!

🎅 Your tree asked Santa for water. Don’t make the big guy handle it, grab a watering can and keep that tree green and happy! 💦 🎄

🎁 Forgot to buy a gift? We’ve got you covered! Nothing says “I care about you” like a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm wrapped with love (and maybe a bow). 🎀 It’s the last-minute gift that actually keeps on giving, saving lives and keeping loved ones safe! 🔥🚨

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Wednesday, December 17, 2025 RESIDENTIAL FIRE IN APPLETON {APPLETON, WIS., Wednesday, December 17, 2025} – Appleton Fire Department responds to an incident early this morning. More info at: https://t.co/3c775JGJGw

🔌 Unplug Safely Turn off holiday lights before leaving home or going to bed. Never overload outlets, it’s one of the most common causes of holiday electrical fires.

Candle Safety Reminder Candles are festive but can be dangerous. 🔋 Consider using battery-operated flameless candles for a safer option.

🌲 Reminder: Don’t Let Your Tree Go Dry! Your tree isn’t just part of the holiday decor; it’s also a potential fire hazard when it’s parched. 💧 Give it an extra drink today, trees love spa days too!

🔥 Fireplace Safety If you’re lighting a fire this season, keep decorations, wrapping paper, and flammable items far from the flames. Always use a fireplace screen to contain sparks.

Candle Safety Reminder Candles are festive but can be dangerous. 🕯️ Keep them 12 inches away from flammable items like decorations or curtains.

🎄 PSA: Your Christmas Tree is Thirsty! If your tree could talk, it’d ask for water...and maybe a cup of eggnog. 🍹 💦 Keep it hydrated daily to avoid turning your festive centerpiece into a fire hazard!