The most common type of emergencies around here are medical issues, but through the years, Jon Zeilman has rescued swimmers from rivers, helped motorists injured on Interstate 5 and saved people and even a bunny from raging fires.
And he really has responded to 9-1-1 calls about cats in trees.
Firefighters still do that sort of thing in small towns.
After 27-plus years with the Jefferson Fire District — the last seven as chief — Zeilman is retiring. His last day will be June 30, and a reception will be held at the main fire station from 3 to 5 p.m.
He said that the best part of his job is helping people, sometimes when they're grieving for a loved one.