BELLE FOURCHE, S.D. – The Belle Fourche Volunteer Fire Department has a new leader.
Rik Bartels officially became fire chief on September 9, succeeding Aaron Thramer. Bartels has been involved with the department since 2013, serving in multiple roles and returning two years ago after a break from service.
As fire chief, Bartels will oversee emergency scenes and serve as the public face of the department. He says stepping into the leadership role is an adjustment, but he’s committed to maintaining the department’s strong traditions and relationships within the community.
Bartels recently helped coordinate mutual aid efforts during the Lookout Mountain Fire and says cooperation with neighboring departments is critical during major incidents.
A longtime Belle Fourche resident, Bartels also serves as president of the Belle Fourche Lions Club and says community support is vital to the success of the volunteer fire department.
Bartels says the department’s volunteers could not do their job without the continued backing of the Belle Fourche community.
