|
1960
- The
Washington Twp. Reelsville Volunteer Fire Department was formed
in November, 1960. It was formed by concerned citizens of
the community to provide fire protection for Washington
Township, Putnam County which in part included Reelsville.
Where they decided the home base would be located. The
first fire chief was Bill B. He and other concerned
citizens were going to make a great attempt at protecting the
citizens of Washington Township.
1961
- They began with an old fuel truck with a portable pump.
In early 1961 the department bought a 1961 GMC Pumper.
Which they retired a few years ago and sold to an
individual in Putnam County. Since that time that vehicle
has been donated to a fire department down South that lost their
equipment to fire at their station.
1969
- In 1969 they purchased their
second vehicle. This one would be the 1969 Howe Pumper.
This vehicle has a 800 gallon tank and still remains
active in the department at this time.
Many things happened
throughout the years. With annual Chili Suppers as their
main fund raiser for each year. They also sponsored Euchre
parties for all of the community to enjoy serving a nice dinner
before the games began. This has taken a lot of hard work
and dedication by the members to put this department where it is
today.
1985 -
In 1985 the department decided it needed to find a way to better
fight the small grass fires that occur. With the equipment
they have so far it was literally impossible to go into a field
and fight a fire without getting stuck. So they purchased
a 1985 they purchase a Chevrolet flatbed truck. They all
went to work and put together a vehicle that they now can fight
brush fires with!
The department now
holds a Fish Fry in the Spring with fabulous fresh onion rings
which are a huge hit. They also have a Valentine raffle
for a great getaway for two. The drawing is held usually
the week-end before Valentines day at a special Pancake Supper.
Then of course in the Fall they hold their annual Chili
Supper usually with live entertainment! They also hold
throughout the year Saturday morning breakfast for donations
only! These have become a great success. A place for
the community to go and talk to their neighbors!
1990
- A 2000 gallons tanker was bought which is so vital
when it comes to rural fire fighting. This provides water
when you do not have access to a water hydrant. This saves
tons of time and many homes. This is a beautiful piece of
equipment. You can check out all our equipment by clicking
here.
1994
- In 1994 we had a van donated to
the department. All the members again joined together and
created a light rescue vehicle. This vehicle allows the
E.M.T. personnel to get to the scene quickly. And we are
the only department in the county that carries a defibrillator
on our rescue vehicle. (We hope we never have to use it!)
1999 - In early December we took delivery
of a new 1999 Pierce Pumper. This has a 1000 gallon tank and a
1200 GPM pump on a Navstar chassis. You can see pictures of this
equipment here.
2000 -
Growing out of our old building! In 2000 we added an
addition on to our existing building! This addition
includes 3 bays, an meeting room/radio room, and a large storage
space.
2001 -
Our Van donated in 1994 had outlived it's time and was taken out
of service. This emergency response vehicle was replaced
with a 1999 Chevy Suburban. This piece of equipment allows
more personnel to respond to an emergency scene quicker.
2005 - The Reelsville Volunteer Fire
Department Auxiliary was reformed in 2005. It currently
consist of 6 members: Loretta J. - President, Stephanie M. -
Secretary/Treasurer, Ginny G., Brandy S., Kay H., and Diane G.
2006 -
In April we bought a Ford Chasse to take place of our 1985 Brush
Rig. We took the bed off the old truck and placed it onto
the new chasse. We now have a very reliable vehicle for
first response.
At this time
we cover 54 square miles with 4 trucks and 25
personnel. We have 5 First Responer/Fire
fighter, 11 Fire fighter/ E.M.T., 7 fire fighters, 1
enactive/reserve, and 1 photographer.
|
