Springtime weather is here along with our typical windy days.
Red flag warnings have begun, and fire departments around the area have been responding to grass fires. Landowners have begun to clear out fields and burn piles. It is so very important to take into consideration how quickly controlled burns can go out of control. It is mandatory to call dispatch to report burning before you burn. Please make sure it is a windless day before you burn. It can take only moments to lose control of the fire in windy conditions, and not only are structures at risk, but more important, lives.
Dolores Fire Department held our annual Valentines Banquet in February. Firemen and their families along with board members joined together for a delicious meal of prime rib and fried chicken prepared by Jon Skelton and many wonderful side dishes and desserts provided by all. After dinner, we were entertained with skits acted out by our two newest members, Chris Barber and Wyatt Jones, a wonderful poem by Gina Kotarski, and acknowledgement and thanks to all the members by our Fire District board members and Chief Mike Zion.
Terrel Wells, our training officer, was presented with Fireman of the Year award. Wells has worked very hard this year, and his commitment to the department is phenomenal. Jeremy Gonzales was also acknowledged for his quick response to an incident in which he saved the life of a very young patient by performing life support.
It is moments like this that stay in our minds for ever, and we are so grateful for your actions. Our department and community are honored and very lucky to have such passionate hard-working people volunteering there time, energy and skill. Thank you to all fireman and women who respond day or night, train constantly, and selflessly give so much of themselves to help others.
I would like to also take the time to remind everyone about address numbers on homes. It is imperative for emergency responders to be able to easily see address numbers on mail boxes and houses. So many of the new mail box numbers are so small that it is very difficult for us to see, especially at night. Our department has “mailbox address signs” available for a very reasonable cost. They are green with reflective white numbers and easily legible. The time it takes for us to search for your house can mean the difference between life and death. Please take the time to make sure addresses are easy to read on your homes and mailboxes.
Our department has also opened a new Facebook page. Join us on “Dolores Volunteer Fire & Rescue.” We will be posting photos of trainings and events.
