SHAMOKIN - Friendship Fire Engine and Hose Company No. 1, Rock and Chestnut streets, recently opened its annual fundraising drive.
The Friendship has 20 active members fulfilling roles ranging from fire suppression/emergency services to administrative positions. The company operates three pieces of apparatus, including its engine, a squad/support unit and a county hazardous materials response trailer. Volunteers respond to all structural fires in Shamokin, often being the first on the scene, and every emergency in the Fifth Ward .
All donations will be put toward the maintenance expenses related to the apparatus and fire station, and assisting in routine expenses such as utility bills, and to defer costs from the recent Flood of 2011.
During the flood, the Friendship Fire Company sustained extensive damage to its basement, including destruction of a recently installed furnace valued at approximately $12,000. Members operated continuously, over a 72-hour period before receiving significant relief.
To safely operate around a burning structure, a firefighter wears an ensemble including - an approved structural firefighting turnout coat, bunker pants, helmet, fire protective hood, boots and gloves which on average may total $1,500 to $2,000. To enter a burning structure, firefighters are required to wear self-contained breathing apparatus which may cost double the amount of the above-mentioned equipment.
The Friendship Fire Company is always accepting applications for active membership. This will allow someone to serve the community by filling roles, not only in fire suppression or emergency services, but in administrative positions.
Donations can be mailed to Friendship Fire Engine and Hose Company, Rock and Chestnut streets, Shamokin, 17872. More information about joining the fire company can be found by visiting the station or calling 648-0751.