The above logo is proudly displayed on our apparatus.  We were the second fire department in the State of Pennsylvania to attain 50% or more of our members to be Certified as Firefighter 1 or above.  Certification testing is done by the Pennsylvania State Fire Commission on a regular basis.  In order to receive certification, examinations involving written and practical skills must be successfully completed. Written and practical tests cover material appropriate to the level they are being tested for, and can include live fire exercises, electrical emergencies, fireground operations and other firefighting activities. Prerequisites to test include First Aid, CPR and Hazardous Material Training. 

  Most fire department members have also been trained by the Pennsylvania Department of Forestry in Wildland Firefighting.  This course is entitled PA 135 and enables certified firefighters to assist the Bureau of Forestry in suppression of wildland or brush fires.

  The Fearnots Volunteer Fire Company was formed in 1954.  It was established to better protect the citizens of the Foster Township.  Eventually, 2 fire stations were used to house apparatus.  One station located on Green Street housed 1 engine and the administrative offices, social room, kitchen and bar.  The other station, on Cedar Street, housed 4 pieces of apparatus.

The fire department made tremendous advancement in the 1990's.  In 1989 the Company purchased a 1989 Pierce Dash pumper.  This unit replaced a 1972 Ford Bean pumper.  In 1990 the Company purchased another Pierce pumper which serves as a Rescue/Pumper and the second due attack engine.  It is equipped with the "Jaws of Life" and air bags, along with other equipment.  In 1997 the fire department responded to over 110 calls in or near the Township. In 1998 we responded to over 135 calls. As our population increased, so has our calls for service.  In 2007 we responded to more than 170 calls.

  We began to design a new taker in early 1997.  The 1998 Semo Tanker on a Mack chassis arrived in August of 1998.  The tanker was designed after taking into consideration major improvements to the water system and the addition of much needed fire hydrants, especially in the Highland and Upper Lehigh areas.  The tanker is equipped with a 1500 gpm pump and can be utilized as a pumper, complimenting Engine 1 and Engine/Rescue/Squirt 2.

  In late 2006 a decision was made to aggressively prepare to replace the 1991Pierce being used as a rescue/pumper.  During the preceding few years, the fire department was fortunate to receive numerous state and federal grants to improve and update the equipment used.  However, the addition of the new equipment caused a problem, as the current apparatus did not have adequate space. Members began to spec out a new truck, which was anticipated to cost more than $375,000.  Members also realized a potential problem as both the 1989 Pierce Dash and the 1991 Pierce rescue/pumper would not be able to be replaced at the same time.

  An opportunity and Department first happened when a used 1997 Pierce Saber Squirt became available.  Several members of the Department traveled to California to conduct an inspection and found the truck in excellent shape.  The truck provided a solution for the problems faced by the Department.  First, it was 1/2 the price of a new truck, it provided almost double the compartment space of the current truck and it added to benefit of an aerial device.

  In December of 2007 the Department received notification they had received a $78,000 grant from the Department of Homeland Security to replace it's aging brush vehicle.  Members decided that a more useful, multi-purpose vehicle was needed to deal with emergency situations.  "Wagon 4" was designed with the current and anticipated future needs of the Community in mind.  A 4 door cab permits up to 5 firefighters in the vehicle, which is equipped with a "skid unit" consisting of a pump and water tank.  An addition of a Hurst Maverick Tool and a basic supply of rescue tools enables it be compliment the "first due" Engine 2 (Rescue/Pumper/Squirt).  It also enables it to be used as a rescue vehicle during storm conditions or in rural areas where 4 wheel drive is needed. 

We are always looking for prospective members.  If you have a question or would like to join drop us a line !

01/10/09 00:53