Eagle River Fire Department launches fundraising raffle

The Eagle River Fire Department is holding a raffle to raise funds for much-needed improvements to its fire station at 820 E. Pine St.

The grand prize winner will get to choose one of the following: a Barrett .50 caliber rifle, a vacation to Fiji, or $10,000 in cash. In addition, six cash prizes ranging from $500 to $2,000 will be awarded.

The raffle drawing will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 31, during the Lions Club Sausage Fest at Riverview Park. Participants do not need to be present to win.

Tickets are $20 each or three for $50. To purchase tickets, call 715-479-8835.

Planned upgrades to the station include new garage doors and openers to improve safety, reliability, and energy efficiency, as well as an epoxy-coated apparatus bay floor to ensure a clean, durable, non-slip surface for firefighters and vehicles.

“These updates are not just cosmetic, they’re critical to the department’s day-to-day operations,” the fire department said in a letter to the News-Review. “The current garage doors are aging and unreliable, causing delays during emergency responses.

“A new epoxy floor will reduce wear and tear on equipment, improve safety, and help maintain cleanliness in a high-traffic area. These upgrades will significantly improve both firefighter safety and operational efficiency.”

To continue providing top-tier fire protection and emergency response, the department is asking for the community’s support through this fundraiser, stating: “The Eagle River Fire Department is a cornerstone of safety and service in our community, responding to emergencies with dedication and professionalism.

“Our goal is to maintain a station that’s as strong and dependable as the people who serve from it.”