The Bartlett Firefighters Association's 2025 annual fundraising campaign, which aimed to improve the department's water rescue capabilities, was declared a success.

Over the past five years, community members, second homeowners, and contributors have continuously supported department endeavors, according to officials, helping to finance projects including a forestry truck, firefighting equipment, a utility terrain vehicle, and a transport trailer. Purchasing specialist equipment for water rescue operations was the focus of this year's campaign.

Three full swift water rescue suit systems, complete with helmets, personal flotation devices, specialist boots, gloves, safety lights, and throw bags, were purchased by the department as a result of the fundraising campaign. In response to recent flooding incidents in the area, officials reported that a number of firefighters have finished swift water rescue and related training.

Remaining funds will be used toward the purchase of a four-person rescue boat to further strengthen emergency response capabilities. Department leaders thanked the community for its continued support and investment in public safety.