Western Lakes Fire District crew delivers baby in Oconomowoc home

CITY OF OCONOMOWOC - A scary situation early March 27 had the best possible outcome.

Western Lakes Fire District emergency crews responded to a call at an Oconomowoc home at about 4 a.m. and delivered a healthy baby girl. According to Western Lakes Fire Chief Brad Bowen, the mother and baby were taken to Waukesha Memorial Hospital, where both were listed in good condition.

"Everything was done at the house," Bowen said. "It wasn't one of those where the water is broke, we're having contractions and we take you to the hospital. It was, 'It is time.'"

It's not a typical call, Bowen said.

"It is a very rare thing," Bowen said. "One of the members on the crews has been doing this for 35 years and has never come close to delivering a baby. ... He's got kids of his own, and he kind of feels like a proud grandpa even though it's not his own. One of the other members also has 30 years of experience and has never delivered a baby. Combined, we probably have 75, 80 years of service, and none of our crew members have delivered a baby before."

Bowen said the situation was "truly an honor" to be a part of.

"We're very happy that everybody is doing well and that we were able to help this family welcome their child into this world," Bowen said. "Unfortunately, normally when we see people it's at their worst. They're having a heart attack or a seizure and their life has been turned upside down in a negative fashion due to an accident or a fire or a medical emergency.

"Here today, though we responded to assist them — and they obviously needed our assistance — it was a very positive call, and it was a very happy ending. Quite frankly, it's a happy ending to the call but it's the start of their baby's life."