In the hours leading up to the Annual Firemen’s FunFest, the Wessington Springs Fire Hall was starting to take shape for the fire department’s biggest fundraiser of the year, that was until firemen were called to a fire less than three hours before FunFest was set to begin at 6 p.m.
Firemen setting up the event dropped everything and sprung into action. They were dispatched to Craig Shryock’s ranch to extinguish a baler fire.
“I was out baling hay when the baler caught on fire. I was able to unhook and save the tractor before calling 911,” said Shryock.
When firemen arrived on scene, both a baler and nearby bale were engulfed in flames.
“They had such a quick response because they were already all at the fire hall setting up for FunFest,” said Shryock “They sure know what they are doing and everybody should go and support them when they have an event.”
With FunFest being less than three hours away, members of the Fire Department Auxiliary along with other firemen mobilized quickly to ensure that FunFest was still a go.
The heat and humidity didn’t deter the community from showing up in a big way. Once doors opened at 6 p.m. a steady line of attendees filled the firehall throughout the evening to enjoy burgers, brats and cold refreshments. Inflatables kept the kids entertained and later in the evening, firemen treated kids to water wars with the fire hoses.
The fire department wishes to thank the community for supporting the FunFest and taking time to enjoy a family friendly evening with first responders.