Apalachin Community Press, December 1999

Apalachin Fire Department News

Help-A-Hydrant

Volunteers are needed to adopt a hydrant. All that's necessary is to keep a hydrant clear of snow in the winter for a 3-foot radius around the hydrant and check for cracks, leaks, or missing parts from time to time.

When there is a fire, precious time can be saved if the hydrant area has been cleared of snow before the firefighters arrive. Every minute counts.

The Apalachin Fire District has more than 200 hydrants. There are 58 helpers who have adopted a hydrant in the Apalachin Fire District. Would you consider being one of these community minded individuals and adopt a hydrant near your home? Help a hydrant, and help your neighbors and yourself.

Call 625-2790 to sign up or to receive more information.

Join the Fire Department

Any individual 16 through 50 who has a strong sense of duty to serve other people may apply for membership. Just stop by Station #1 any Wednesday evening between 7:00 and 9:00 pm or contact any member of the department for more information and an application. Applicants must live or work in the Apalachin Fire District.

Apprentice Firefight Program

Young people ages 16 and 17 can join the department with parental/guardian consent. While apprentices are allowed to participate fully in training sessions, there are restrictions during emergency operations. Apprentices cannot operate fire pumps, enter burning structures or contaminated atmospheres, and they are not placed in any situation that could endanger themselves or other firefighters. Apprentices must maintain good academic standing in order to stay active.