05/31/2026
The last 24 hours have been a true reminder of what it means to serve our communities together.
Shortly after 8:00 PM last night, Boardman Fire was dispatched to a fully involved barn fire. The fire posed an immediate threat to a nearby home and camper. Thanks to the quick actions of responding crews and the help of a caring neighbor, the home was saved.
We were assisted by Fife Lake Fire Department, Garfield Township Fire Department, and Kalkaska Township Fire Department. Firefighters worked side by side through the night, tackling a difficult fire with a heavy fire load. All units finally cleared the scene shortly after midnight.
Afterward, Boardman personnel assisted Fife Lake with cleaning hose, trucks, and air packs before returning apparatus to service and heading home around 2:00. But the morning wasn’t over yet. Shortly after 2:30 Boardman and Fife Lake crews were called back out for a rekindle—a possibility with fires of this size and intensity. Crews remained on scene until approximately 4:30am, assuring the fire was not going to rekindle.
At noon today, three personnel met to begin the fire investigation. Shortly after clearing that assignment, Boardman crews responded to assist on a possible heart attack call. Once back at the station, the engine was washed and put back in service, and members started heading home around 3:30 PM.
Again, the day had other plans.
Crews were dispatched to a wildland fire in Kalkaska Township. Brush, Engine, and Squad responded, with Boardman personnel assisting with mop-up operations alongside neighboring departments. After returning to the station, trucks and hose were cleaned, equipment was put back in service, and crews finally are home.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family going through an unimaginable loss. We are happier to report there were no injuries to the homeowners of the barn/home, animals, and responders.
To our firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers, neighboring departments, and the community members who lend a hand when it matters most - thank you. The last 24 hours have been long, exhausting, and demanding, but it also showed the strength of teamwork, dedication, and neighbors helping neighbors.
We are grateful for every person who answered the call.
