Image courtesy of the Fort Washington Fire Company No. 1 Jeffrey D. Ollis - Photo 88
The company, which is 100 percent volunteer, is now certified in Swiftwater Flood Evacuation rescues
The Fort Washington Fire Company, No. 1, recently announced it was honored by the Pennsylvania Voluntary Rescue Service Recognition (VRSR) program. The company’s volunteers have earned a certification in Swiftwater Flood Evacuation as a team.
According to the department’s release, 16 personnel at the Company are specifically trained in the areas of water rescue emergencies, and they are prepared to respond with a fleet of four rescue boats and assorted water rescue equipment. VRSR is a joint program between the Office of the State Fire Commissioner and the Department of Health Bureau of Emergency Medical Services.
Each year, the program recognizes emergency service agencies that can safely and efficiently perform rescue operations to the standards the two organizations have established.
“This recognition is a testament of the dedication by our volunteers to provide the finest fire and rescue services to our community,” said the Fire Company’s Fire Chief Andrew Rathfon.
The Fort Washington Fire Company prides itself on maintaining a rigorous training regimen, he said, which “helps maintain our high standard of readiness to assist the community.” The company operates on a 100 percent volunteer basis, and actively seeks new members to join its ranks.
“We’re always looking for residents who are curious about potentially joining to come and check things out,” said the Fire Company’s President Ernest Racz.
A full application packet is available online here. Anyone with questions or interest can email membership@fwfc.org for more information.
