The Hazardous Device Squad is responsible for “rendering safe” items found to be suspicious or confirmed explosive devices.

The Kenosha County Hazardous Device Squad is staffed by two (2) members of the Fire Prevention Bureau and other members of various law enforcement    agencies within Kenosha County.  The members of the Bureau provide unique skills and insights found only by members of the fire service.  Their contributions are substantial.

To maintain their skills, each member of the Unit receives continuing education on a monthly basis in rendering safe procedures, device recognition, and equipment usage.  In addition to this monthly training, the Unit receives a week long training program provided by the United States Department of Defense.

2004 was a unique year.  Being a political year, presidential candidates, their spouses, and others seeking electoral votes required security and security sweeps while touring the State of Wisconsin.  Their tours included but was not limited to the City of Kenosha, Kenosha County, and Racine County.  Kenosha County HDS members were honored with the task of “sweeping” (searching for hazardous devices) and securing the airport, plane, vehicles, buildings, and surrounding areas for President George Bush and Elizabeth Edwards.

For more information: Kenosha County Bomb Squad: www.co.kenosha.wi.us/sheriff/ksdhds.html