PERRYSBURG, Ohio — Holidays are a time to share joy with others. But for first responders, working holidays sometimes comes with the job.
WTOL 11 checked in with the Perrysburg Fire Division to see firsthand how first responders handle emergencies this Thanksgiving.
Nate Burtscher is a fire captain with Perrysburg Fire Division. Burtscher said that things have been pretty smooth just in general this year. On holidays, it's no different; in fact, he says it's actually a lighter day because people in some cases are traveling.
In the past, turkey fryer fires have been a problem. But that hasn't been the case recently.
"The number of turkey fryer fires have gone down tremendously," Burtscher said. "I think we've done a really good job at educating the public."
Burtscher said that while they don't get to spend time with their family at home on the holiday, they will still make the holiday special.
"Often, people will have their families come up here and we'll celebrate Thanksgiving up here,” Burtscher said.
As for Burtscher, he steps up for the team and ensures the work is still getting done.
"For me personally, I've been in this job for 25, almost 26 years and my children are grown," Burtscher said. "So I would rather work the holiday and let the younger people that work here have time with their families."
He said working on Thanksgiving is a unique experience.
"I think working on Thanksgiving is unique for us because it's a time to say thanks and oftentimes people are coming in and wanting to say thanks to us," Burtscher said. "And we're thankful for the family that we have here at the firehouse, thankful for our families at home that support us."
And with Thanksgiving ending and Christmas approaching, the captain said it's important for people to remember to not overload circuits for lights and decorations when getting in the holiday spirit.