RIVER VALE—The township’s volunteer fire department and volunteer ambulance corps are sponsoring two open houses in September for residents interested in getting in training and hours with either service.
The sessions are Sept. 18 and 25 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Fire Department North Firehouse, 620 Rivervale Road. Interested residents and their families are welcome to attend. Kids will be able to see fire and ambulance vehicles up-close. Coffee and bagels will be available at each event.
Fire Chief Ron Manke told Pascack Press on Aug. 25 that the events will provide information about a variety of opportunities. “Our whole push is about volunteerism. We need volunteers in all of our local municipalities and we rely on volunteers.”
Manke has served as chief the past two years and is a department veteran of 14 years. He said he has served as a volunteer firefighter 33 years overall.
The RVFD notes on its website, rivervalefd.org, that it’s been “professionally staffed by volunteers since Aug. 13, 1923.” Manke said 55 volunteer firefighters power the department today.
The site also has a recruitment area with plenty of information on the RVFD, a video of the department in action, and other resources.
As an incentive for volunteers, Manke said that the Township Council recently approved an up-to $500 credit for local volunteers to get free local permits on home improvement projects.
Manke said residents can stop by the firehouse on Monday nights to watch firefighter drills and training exercises.
He said the department recently improved its Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating, a rating from a non-profit, independent organization that rates local fire protection to determine property insurance costs. He said the improved rating demonstrates how much the department has improved over the past five years.
The River Vale Volunteer Ambulance Corps says on its web page, rivervalenj.org/153/Ambulance-Corps, that it’s been serving the township since 1957.
“The corps is comprised of 20 volunteers. We staff two Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances, and are available to respond to emergency calls around the clock. We have responded to 795 calls for assistance so far this year,” it says.
It adds, “Joining the River Vale Volunteer Ambulance Corps is easy. Whether you are a seasoned EMS veteran or a total newcomer to the field, there is a place on the corps for you.”
For more information, call Manke at (201) 783-3500 or write firechief@rivervalenj.org.