Protecting Wayzata with Pride and Dedication

The Wayzata Fire Department, a vital pillar of our community since its founding in 1893, has been keeping our city safe for over a century. Situated on Rice Street, in downtown Wayzata, the department’s bright red fire trucks are a familiar sight, but it’s the dedicated men and women behind the wheel who are the true heart of this organization.
Wayzata Fire Chief Kevin Klapprich is pictured. Submitted photo.
Unlike larger city departments, Wayzata’s fire service is made up almost entirely of volunteer firefighters—local residents who respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice. These brave volunteers protect our homes and businesses from fire, respond to medical calls, and handle a wide variety of emergency situations, from hazardous material incidents to rescues on Lake Minnetonka.

Serving as a volunteer firefighter in Wayzata is no small task, but the department is always looking for dedicated, community-minded individuals to join its ranks. If you’ve ever felt the call to serve, now is the time. The department offers extensive training and certification, ensuring that volunteers are well-prepared to handle the challenges of firefighting and emergency response. No previous experience is necessary—just a commitment to keeping Wayzata safe and a willingness to respond when the call comes in.
The Wayzata Fire Department hosts regular recruitment events and informational meetings, where potential volunteers can learn about the responsibilities and rewards of joining the force. As a volunteer, you’ll gain invaluable skills, camaraderie, and the opportunity to give back to the community in a way few other roles allow. Not only will you become a vital part of a well-respected organization, but you’ll also build lifelong connections with fellow firefighters and community members.

In addition to firefighting, the department is also active in local events and education, offering fire safety presentations at schools, leading the annual Fire Department Open House during James J. Hill Days, and hosting the popular pancake breakfasts to raise funds for the Wayzata Fire Relief Association.
For those interested in learning more about volunteering, the Wayzata Fire Department encourages you to stop by the fire station, attend a recruitment event, or visit their website for application details. Becoming a volunteer firefighter is a rewarding way to serve the community and carry on the department’s proud tradition of service.
Join the team that keeps Wayzata safe—because when fire strikes, our town relies on neighbors helping neighbors.
600 Rice Street
Wayzata, MN 55391
952-404-5337
-
Joe Komarek: The Voice of the Wayzata Trojans Signs Off After 33 Years
P.A. Announcer will be remembered for his artificial attendance reports, imitations of officials’ penalty calls, and his faith After more than three decades as the unmistakable voice of Wayzata High School athletics, Joe Komarek stepped away from the microphone earlier this year, bringing an end to his 33-year tenure as the public address announcer for…
-
Wayzata Fire Department to Host 8th Annual Pancake Breakfast on September 15, 2024
The Wayzata Fire Department will host its 8th Annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, September 15, from 8 a.m. to noon at 600 Rice Street East. The community event will feature pancakes, French toast, sausage, coffee, juice, a raffle, and more, with all proceeds benefiting the Wayzata Fire Relief Association. The tradition began in 2015, though…
-
Wayzata to Celebrate Night to Unite Tuesday, August 6th
For more than four decades, the neighborhoods of Wayzata have come together to celebrate Night to Unite, an event that strengthens community ties and promotes safety. Hosted annually by the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition, this year’s celebration, held from 5:15 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday August 6th, promises to be as engaging and impactful as…
-
Rich Holm retires after 37 years of service to Wayzata Fire Department
After an illustrious career spanning 37 years, firefighter Rich Holm has bid farewell to the Wayzata Fire Department, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and service. Holm, who joined the department in 1985, has been a steadfast pillar of the firefighting community in Wayzata and was recognized at the Wayzata City Council meeting on Tuesday,…
-
Wayzata Welcomes Two New Firefighters at City Council Meeting
In a ceremony held during the December 5th City Council Meeting, Wayzata Fire Department Chief Kevin Klapprich, alongside City Manager Jeff Dahl, officially swore in two new firefighters to the ranks. Chief Klapprich took the opportunity to introduce the community to these dedicated individuals who will be serving the city with commitment and valor. Mason…
-
Mark Your Calendars: Exciting New City Showcase Event Coming on October 9
Get ready for an exciting community event that promises fun, engagement with public safety personel, and a chance to connect with elected officials. The highly-anticipated New City Showcase Event is just around the corner, set to take place on October 9 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. right outside Wayzata City Hall, located a 600…
-
Community Unites for National Night Out: Strengthening Bonds and Promoting Crime Prevention
Mark your calendars for an evening of camaraderie, safety, and community spirit as the Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition, Wayzata Police, Fire Department, City staff, elected officials, and the beloved McGruff, Crime Coalition Mascot, gear up for the highly anticipated National Night Out event in Wayzata. On August 1st, from 5:15 to 8:30 p.m., this annual…
-
Wayzata Police, Fire departments navigate tight labor market
First responders and law enforcement officers are difficult to come by in 2022 with fewer recruits and more competition between departments. Wayzata is experiencing this just like the rest of the nation, with the fire and police departments needing to be creative to meet the needs of the community. Meanwhile budget demands weigh heavy and…









You must be logged in to post a comment.