While many people have the day off for the holidays, essential workers across mid-Michigan remain on duty to keep communities safe and powered.
- Mason Fire Chief Kerry Minshall and 31 staff members remain on call 24/7 during Christmas, sacrificing holiday celebrations to serve the community.
- Consumers Energy crews prepare for potential power outages as icy rain threatens power lines later this week.
- Emergency services operate around the clock regardless of holidays, with first responders prioritizing public safety over personal time.
Kerry Minshall, fire chief in Mason, oversees 31 staff members who are always on call, even on Christmas Day.
Mason Fire Chief Kerry Minshall and 31 staff members remain on call 24/7 during Christmas, sacrificing holiday celebrations to serve the community. • Consumers Energy crews prepare for potential power outages as icy rain threatens power lines later this week. • Emergency services operate around the clock regardless of holidays, with first responders prioritizing public safety over personal time.
“That’s what you sign up for when you take the job, I’m going to go out and help that person when they’re having a bad day,” Minshall said.
The fire department must be prepared around the clock, regardless of the calendar.
“We have to be prepared 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” Minshall said. “Emergencies don’t follow a calendar or a script, they come when they need to come.”…