An honorable mention goes out to Firefighters Jacoby, Smith, and Wittasek who made a quick knockdown on an early morning dwelling fire over the winter break. The fire is believed to have started when a cigarette was carelessly discarded in a couch.
The Auburn Fire Department recently took delivery of a 90-foot aerial platform manufactured by Sutphen Corporation of Ohio. The 23 ton, 48 foot-long truck is capable of pumping 1500 gpm and carries 7 personnel. West station also received a new computer to assist with pre-fire planning and dispatch.
The Buddha National Team is off to a good start in the twilight basketball league. The team dropped the first game by a margin of 6 baskets but managed to regroup to make a strong showing in the second game. They dominated the match 15-6. The team will be a force to reckon with (once we work out the cobwebs).
The A Award goes to Firefighter Jacoby this month for giving the front end of the dive unit a face lift. Nice job Dave - the old dent is barely visible now. The Award is passed down from Firefighter O'Brien, whose feats last month included a guest appearance at the Snapple Christmas party and breaking in the new ambulance (which earned him the award).
Finally, the station received a donation in the form of a mascot. Pokey, a 7 year old Dalmation, has found her way into the hearts (and food shelves) of the firefighters. The spunky canine is adapting well to her new surroundings and is patiently awaiting the opportunity to ride out on the rig. We wish her luck.
Firefighters from West Station responded to 32 incidents in the month of February. The calls break down as follows: 2 structures, 1 auto, 1 dumpster, 1 brush, 2 chimney fires, 11 alarms, 7 smoke investigations, 1 electrical, 2 gas odors, and 4 stand-bys. Training for the month included: EMS, ventilation, fire investigation, and hose lays.
Once again, Engine 1 was first on scene at a working house fire in which an aggressive interior attack was made. A tip of the helmet goes out to the crew of Miller, Nunnemacher, and Wittasek.
Station renovations were made during the snowstorm. We'll have to host an open house soon to show off the craftsmenship. Thanks to those who helped out. A thank you also goes out to Firefighters Dell'Orfano, Miller, and O'Brien for preparing Station dinners. And one final note of thanks to Wendy for the delicious cake and the ongoing support.
Firefighter Jacoby gladly passes the A award to FF Sullivan, whose automotive skills are beyond reproach. I think he set you up Bob.
The Buddha National Team has instilled great fear in the twilight basketball league. Apparently, only a day's notice was given for the game and the great Buddha's could not field a team. The team hopes to extend its 1 game winning streak.
Finally, Pokey the Canine Firehousicus visited the vet. She's finally winning the battle against ear mites, and is expected to make a full recovery.