WFD Holds First Drills Since Shutdown

By Michael Contaxis, 1st Assistant Chief Warwick Fire Department

On Mon., June 8, the Warwick Fire Department (WFD) held its first drill together since the middle of March.  Firemen have been doing online courses and some Zoom meetings to keep up to date during the state-wide stay-at-home period due to the coronavirus pandemic health situation. 

The department recently also held an extrication drill going over a new tool they have for rescue operations. It was great to see everybody…this is our heart and our soul.  

The WFD has responded to 159 calls for service to date. This past week the WFD responded to multiple calls for service including automatic fire alarms, brush fires, carbon monoxide alarms, Appalachian Trail Rescues, Motor Vehicle Accidents and Landing Zone Requests.

The WFD would like to remind all drivers to use caution, drive the speed limit and don’t drink, drive and text. All speed limits are posted on all roadways, please drive safely.  The WFD would also like to remind all motorists to yield to first responders in emergencies. Blue and green lights are courtesy lights for our responders to safely respond to the firehouse or ambulance bay to help someone in need.  When you see a blue or green light behind you, safely pull to the shoulder of the road to let out first responders pass to help someone in need.  

Preventing Fires Through Education

This year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” works to educate everyone about the simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves, and those around them, safe in the kitchen. 

Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of fires in the kitchen.

While home with your children and family members WFD asks that you explore online Fire Prevention training activities with them to help keep them and your families Warwick Fire Safe.  Follow sparkysschoolhouse.org for fun interactive ways to learn about Fire Safety.  Remember June is National Safety Month and to always use caution in and out of your home. 

Do you want to be a firefighter?  Do you want to join the Fire Police?  Are you 16 years of age or older and want to give back with protecting your community?  Then we want you!  We offer teamwork, dedication, family and a bond like no other.  We look forward to hearing from you. Please call 845-986-3473 us on Facebook, Instagram or by emailing us at warwickfire150@gmail.com and wfd634c@yahoo.com. You can also stop by any of our firehouses any evening to speak with a Fire Officer.  

 Warwick Fire Dept. Goodwill Hook & Ladder Lieutenant Tom Cosgrove instructs WFD firefighters in the use of the new grip hoist rescue tool at Warwick Station #1.