Harrison Fire Department Adds K9 Unit to Support Community Safety and Team Wellness

The Harrison Fire Department has welcomed a new recruit and he has four legs and a tail.

Keiser, a German shepherd, is in training to become both a certified search-and-rescue K9 and a source of emotional support for firefighters. The initiative is led by Lieutenant Chris Gundrum, who also heads up the department’s Community Risk Reduction (CRR) and public education programs.

Keiser, Certified Search & Rescue K9, In Training

Gundrum joined the department full time in 2019, after relocating to Harrison. He was promoted to lieutenant in September 2023. His vision for a K9 support program came from seeing a need for new tools to serve both the public and his fellow firefighters.

“This job is emotional,” he said. “We see people at their worst, and that takes a toll. Having Keiser around brings calm and boosts morale.”

Keiser, named after the Keiser Machine used in firefighter combat challenges has quickly become a favorite around the station. Loyal, intelligent and friendly, he works every shift alongside Gundrum, who brings him to the station in a department-issued vehicle. One Collision donated and installed the vehicle kennel, and the City of Middletown provided a crate, underscoring the regional support for the new program.

While Keiser’s primary purpose is search and rescue, he’s already making an impact with staff. “There’s a noticeable lift in morale when he’s around,” Gundrum said. “He’s become part of the team.”

Keiser is still completing his formal certification, and Gundrum is training him on his own time in partnership with a local search and rescue group, Code 3. Once certified, Keiser may also take on a role in public education outreach, visiting schools and community events.

Gundrum’s broader mission remains focused on proactive safety. Through CRR efforts, he works to identify patterns in emergency calls and intervene before incidents occur especially through partnerships with families and schools.

“The Harrison community has been incredibly supportive,” Gundrum said. “Our public education program is funded entirely through donations. Every fire safety handout, every kids’ activity packet we have that because local businesses and residents step up.”

One of the biggest needs, he said, is working smoke alarms. The department partners with the American Red Cross to provide and install alarms for free. It’s a simple tool, but one that saves lives.

Looking ahead, Gundrum hopes to expand the K9 program, possibly adding another dog with a specialized role.

“Harrison is unique,” he said. “The sense of community here, the way people rally around new ideas, this is the kind of place where programs like this can grow.”

Residents interested in supporting the Fire Department’s education or K9 programs can contact the station or follow updates at HarrisonOhio.gov.