Dan LaLone
Contributing Writer

(Courtesy photo- The trucks and personnel at the Hamlin Township Fire Department served 225 calls in 2025 in addition to trainings and participation in community education programs.)

The Hamlin Township Fire Department responded to 225 calls for service in 2025 while expanding training programs, strengthening regional partnerships and increasing community engagement, according to its annual report.

Chief of Department Francis D’Huyvetter announced the 2025 annual report during the department’s quarterly Fire Board meeting on Monday, February 9, and again at the February 11 Township Board meeting. A copy of the report is available on the department’s website.

The part-paid volunteer department, based on M-50/M-99 just south of Eaton Rapids, continued to balance steady emergency demand with a growing role in public education and mutual aid across county lines.

D’Huyvetter described 2025 as “another very active and productive year,” citing increased participation in community events and the creation of internal committees to help manage operational growth.

Report Details

The department reported no significant structure fires within its primary service area of Hamlin Township and part of Brookfield Township. However, firefighters provided mutual aid at several major incidents in neighboring communities, including Eaton Rapids and departments in Calhoun and Jackson counties.

Vehicle fires, residential alarms and fire investigations made up additional responses. Spring storms led to an increase in downed power line calls, with firefighters staffing the station during severe weather to improve response times.

Emergency medical service calls remained consistent with the previous year. In coordination with Eaton County 911, the department updated its response policies and will now respond to select non-priority EMS calls when ambulances are responding from outside the Eaton Rapids area. Officials said the change is intended to ensure residents receive timely assistance for incidents such as falls and other basic medical needs.

Member Milestones

Staffing increased in 2025 with the addition of new members holding Firefighter I and II certifications, along with recruits entering the Eaton County Fire Academy. Three members earned Fire Instructor I certification, increasing the department’s ability to conduct in-house training and assist with county academies.

The department reports 184 combined years of service among its members.

Two firefighters were named Firefighter of the Year, recognized by fellow members for dedication, leadership and service. Several members completed EMT training, probationary periods and academy programs throughout the year.

Equipment

Hamlin Fire operates eight apparatus and support units, including engines, a tanker, brush unit and rescue boat. In 2025, firefighters replaced aging helmets to improve safety and pursued an emergency management grant expected in 2026 to fund updating of lighting and battery-operated equipment.

Community engagement remained a priority. Firefighters hosted an annual Open House and Health Fair in partnership with Eaton Rapids Medical Center, participated in local parades, supported school and library events and expanded outreach through social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok.

The Future

Looking ahead, the department plans to pursue renewal of an existing millage in 2026 and seek state funding to replace its 20-year-old tanker with a 4,000-gallon unit. Officials also plan to refurbish an aging engine and invest in additional roadway safety equipment.

“The health and safety of our firefighters remains central to our mission,” the report states, emphasizing continued fiscal responsibility and operational readiness.