This month’s issue of Milwaukee Magazine features a profile of Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski and the challenges the fire department is grappling with. Lipski, a fourth-generation Milwaukee firefighter, took the top spot in 2021 when the department was at a tipping point. He says staffing shortages have left firefighters overworked and exhausted as stations respond to an unprecedented volume of emergency calls. Lake Effect’s Xcaret Nuñez spoke with Lipski about what the fire department is doing to help address those issues — including the recent rollout of a new mental health initiative. The danger brought by rushing into a fire is well known. But what else does the job of a firefighter consist of? Many people aren't as aware — they’re becoming more aware — but they’re not as aware of what we do.