Once again, another year has passed. As we begin our 36th year of service, we would like to take this opportunity to thank each one of you for your continued support and let you know some of the exciting changes that have taken place at Cork-Knights this year.
In past years, we responded to emergency calls as a Basic Life Support Company, utilizing EMTs and First Responders. This year, with the addition of a Paramedic, we are able to provide more advanced life support procedures such as medications and advanced airways, prior to the arrival of an Ambulance. Because of the added medical expertise, our response area has increased.
In addition to a 1500-gallon Tanker Pumper Fire Engine and a 350-gallon Brush Truck, this year we have added a 1000-gallon, four-wheel-drive Brush Truck, a 3500-gallon Tanker, and a second Fire Engine with an additional 750 gallons of water.
This past year, our Station ran 1,694 calls and volunteered 24,323.15 hours. Good portions of the hours were used for training. Our training program continues to be more demanding than ever. In 2005, the State mandated that all Volunteers achieve Fire Fighter I certification. As a result, we are currently converting our apparatus bays to double as a multipurpose training facility. Our extensive training program enables us to bring a level of service beyond years past.
This year we are asking for a small, tax-deductible donation of $35 per household or $75 per business. We would like to assure you that 100% of donations made to the Cork-Knights Volunteer Fire Department stay with this Department. Any moneys received through donations are used for the increasing costs of day-to-day operations, training not paid for by the County, and the purchase of a Chief’s vehicle, a squad, or van, as well as other equipment. This will enable us to continue to provide you with the service you have expected since 1971.
We would like to thank you in advance for your donation and encourage you to come visit your Station. If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Fire Fighter, Board Member, or to volunteer time at one of our many functions, please stop by the Station for additional information.
Watch our web site for the many activities, fundraisers, and goals our Station has planned for the upcoming year. To name a few, we are planning the second annual Cork-Knights of Screams at Dinosaur World, several BBQs, a chili cook-off, and car washes. We look forward to seeing you in the future.