The American flag greeted guests as they arrived at Deptford Memorial Park, while antique fire trucks (below) from the Almonesson Lake and Blackwood Terrace fire companies showcased the evolution of department engines in the township.
The Deptford fire department hosted a kickoff for Fire Prevention Week on Oct. 5 at Deptford Memorial Park showcasing its work and offering tips on fire prevention.
Similar to National Night Out, the event showcased an array of fire trucks that included gear and equipment used daily. A trailer simulated what it’s like to be in a smoky house, and the importance of smoke detectors was highlighted. Kids also had the chance to use a fire hose – with assistance from a firefighter – on a wooden cut-out house.
The American flag was hung from two fire ladders at the entrance to the park, formerly Fasola Park. The department also featured old-school fire engines from Almonesson Lake and Blackwood Terrace firehouses. Fire Prevention Week ended on Oct. 12.
Volunteer and paid firefighters from the various companies in the Deptford department were on hand to greet and talk to guests. Among the aims of the event, according to Battalion Chief Jason Kell, was to increase recruitment.
“We’re always looking for volunteers, and I had approached our board of fire commissioners to see if we could do something bigger,” he explained, “such as doing a recruitment and fire prevention (event), because everyone knows about the equipment we have. But we are very fortunate that we have what we have. There are towns that don’t …
“We hope to get more membership,” Kell added. “Whether it be cadets, people for the fire/police, the canteen or just firefighters. Or even ones that start out as juniors, where they can work their way up as firefighters.”
Food trucks from Kona Ice, Chick-Fil-A and the department’s own canteen unit were on hand to provide meals. A Dalmatian mascot dressed in fire department gear made its way around, while a remote-controlled truck was driven by a talking dog that chatted with families.
The event’s large turnout included Mayor Paul Medany and members of Deptford council.
“The event is great,” the mayor said. “The township council is here supporting the fire department, who are looking for volunteers. We’re also here to thank them (the volunteers) and paid firefighters for everything they do to protect Deptford Township. It’s all about public safety.
“The fire department educates people on smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, keeping their homes (safe) and trying for fire prevention,” Medany added. “That’s a big deal, because we don’t want to come out and put out your house fire, we want you to prevent it.”
