For nearly the past two years, a small but dedicated group of local leaders and public safety professionals have been studying fire and emergency medical services (EMS) in Walworth County. Several years ago, a number of municipalities and towns requested the county’s help in organizing an effort to improve emergency services. While fire and EMS services are ultimately the responsibility of towns, villages and cities under state law, the county was in a position to bring local stakeholders together to discuss the matter. With a few exceptions, EMS and fire services in our county are largely provided by volunteers. They not only answer fire and rescue calls at all hours of the day and night, but also complete many hours of training necessary to maintain certifications required to respond to calls.