City of Waupun
February 26, 2026
City of Waupun Enhances Emergency Medical Response
WAUPUN — The City of Waupun announced it is taking the next step in strengthening local emergency medical service by upgrading its Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) program to a transport-capable service.
Effective March 2, 2026, Waupun’s EMR program will begin operation in a backup ambulance capacity to the City’s contracted ambulance provider, Lifestar.
Mayor Rohn W. Bishop stated, “it is important to understand that Lifestar remains Waupun’s primary ambulance service and a valued partner. However, as service demand rises, we are experiencing coverage gaps. Advancing our EMR service to transport-capable reflects a proactive approach to meet the evolving needs of our community.”
According to staffing studies completed by the City, this is not a challenge unique to Waupun. Across the country, emergency response systems are under strain due to rising call volumes and difficulties staffing.
The City established its EMR program in 2019 in response with the goal of building local capacity to overcome these challenges. Like many communities today, Waupun experiences times where its contracted ambulance provider is already committed to another emergency and unable to respond to added 911 call volume.
In those instances, EMRs provide initial care but cannot transport under the city’s current state-approved operating plan. That means, patients must rely on mutual aid from neighboring communities for transport and advanced care.
According to Fire Chief, BJ DeMaa, “mutual aid serves as a crucial backup plan, but response times can sometimes exceed 30 minutes — delays that can significantly impact outcomes during serious medical emergencies. Our responsibility is simple: when someone in our community calls 911, help must arrive as quickly as possible. Enhancing our service capability strengthens system reliability and reduces the likelihood of delayed response during critical emergencies.”
Two state grants propelled the City’s EMR program forward. Those grants supported the training and startup of the program and funded the acquisition of two fully equipped ambulances.
According to DeMaa, “our team’s commitment to training has resulted in higher skill levels within the department, with a majority of EMRs presently certified at an EMT-Basic level or higher. This factor combined with the capital equipment afforded through these grants positions the city to upgrade our service.”
A request for service upgrade was approved by the State of Wisconsin, allowing the department to transport as a backup ambulance service. As part of that approval, the City is required to strengthen its staffing plan over the next four years to support a sustainable service model.
Reflecting on the City’s progress, Mayor Bishop concluded, “I am incredibly proud of our Fire and EMS personnel for their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to stepping up to meet our community’s ever-changing needs. This action reflects thoughtful planning, strategic investment, and a continued commitment to the health and safety of Waupun.”
