Firefighters on staff serve double duty

By Greg Pitts, staff member

I’d like to thank the Glenhaven staff members who are volunteer fire fighters. They fill a vital need on the Ranch as well as in our surrounding community.

About five years ago, we decided it would be appropriate to try and put in a fire station here at Glenhaven. At the time it took over twenty minutes just to drive to the Ranch from the nearest fire station, let alone get trucks started and gear on. Having equipment and firefighters on site seemed like the best answer for improving fire protection. Since its inception, the substation at Glenhaven has been a part of the Nmrod-Aplin Volunteer Fire Department. There have been almost 20 Glenhaven staff members that have gone through the training to be firefighters. Currently, there are 10 active members of the department at the Ranch. We also have a pumper truck and a brush truck garaged on the property.

A wonderful by-product of having firefighters on Ranch is the fact that several of them have gone on to train as first responders for medical emergencies. They are called upon regularly to deal with various medical situations with residents, staff and volunteers. It takes close to 30 minutes for ambulance personnel to arrive at the Ranch. Having medical assistance here is very valuable.

Glenhaven first responders also make calls out in the community for vehicle accidents and medical emergencies.

Looking ahead, we are hopeful about upgrading out trucks and equipment. Glenhaven is blessed to have a spring-fed pond on site that holds approximately 900,000 gallons of water year round. Our desire is to develop a water distribution system for firefighting using this resource. These improvements most likely will require funding from grants.

I am grateful for those staff members who participate on our fire department. Their willingness to serve the needs of Glenhaven residents is enhanced by their service as firefighters. They also serve as ambassadors from the Ranch to the community.