Prairie City Fire Chief Ryan Van Der Kamp wears more than just a fire helmet. The life-long resident not only leads the local fire department, but he serves as the president of the PCM School Board and owns his own electrical company.
“(I became a firefigher to) give back to the community and help people out,” Van Der Kamp said.
Van Der Kamp has served on the department since 2004 and leading as fire chief for the past 12 years. It is a family passion with his dad Carl Van Der Kamp, brother Erik Van Der Kamp and sister-in-law, Jody Van Der Kamp, all a part of the fire and ambulance department.
Looking to educate the next generations, Van Der Kamp’s favorite part of serving is the field trip for the preschool kids to visit the fire department.
“(My favorite part is) teaching the preschool-aged kids about fire safety,” Van Der Kamp said.
He is also active to keep the department growing through fundraisers including the annual car show and past events such as the Valentine’s Day Dinner.
“We recently purchased a new grass truck with 100 percent fundraising money including truck slide in pump light and radio,” Van Der Kamp said.
With two busy daughters, it can be difficult at times for Van Der Kamp and many fire and EMS volunteers to keep wearing all of their hats. Work, home and commitments can fill up a schedule quickly.
“(One of the hardest parts is) making time,” Van Der Kamp said. “Everyone is busy these days. It’s very hard leaving family or work at times.”
Having the department become like family, or in a few cases, his actual family, helps when he gets called out of his home.
“We all become very good friends,” Van Der Kamp said. “It becomes like a family, we all now each other’s families.”
Like almost every fire chief out there, Van Der Kamp is looking for more volunteers to join the ranks. Whether interested in fighting fires or serving the emergency medical services, new members are always welcome.
Copyright © 2022 Newton Daily News. All rights reserved. Published in Newton, Iowa, USA, by Shaw Media.
Copyright © 2022 Newton Daily News. All rights reserved. Published in Newton, Iowa, USA, by Shaw Media.