I would like to begin by stating what a great honor is for me to serve the community of Fair Haven and the Fair Haven Volunteer Fire Company as the Chief for the year 2007. It is a position that I take great pride in achieving and I am looking forward to an exciting, yet hopefully quiet, year. It is truly a privilege for me to follow in the footsteps of the former Chiefs before me who have helped make this Company what it is today.
The Fair Haven Fire Company is unique in its composition in that we are basically all encompassed as one department with several organizations. It could not run as smoothly as it does without the cooperation of all organizations and officers involved. This is a true testament to the members of this Company. Many people may not realize that the initial training to become a firefighter includes more then 150 hours of training involving classroom and live- fire evolutions. Additionally, the fire company conducts drills and training exercises on a monthly basis aimed at continuing our education and maintaining our skills. This diligence to training is essential to having a qualified and experienced company ready to perform its expected duties.
In addition to our regular training, we are also meticulous in the up-keep and maintenance of our apparatus and equipment. Presently, our first due engine for a call is 25 years old, yet is more then capable of performing the functions required of it. Our second due engine, a 1954 American LaFrance “Quad”, is among the oldest and most recognized fire trucks still in-service in the State of New Jersey and has quite obviously accomplished all that has been asked of it over 52 years. Our third due engine is more than 30 years old and is just as reliable now as it ever was. The durability and resilience of our apparatus over the years can clearly be attributed to our engineers, drivers, and Borough mechanic for their dedication and expertise. This is not something that should be overlooked.
Overall, this is an exciting time to be a part of the Fair Haven Fire Company. We recognize the demands placed upon our personnel are great; however, the rewards of volunteering and being a part of the organization are greater. While we are always looking for those willing to become active firefighters, please keep in mind that there are many jobs and responsibilities aside from firefighting that are required and we are always looking for members who are able to assist in any way possible.
Again, it is with great pride that I serve the Borough as Fire Chief for 2007. Should you have any questions, if I can be of assistance in any way, please don’t hesitate to contact me through Borough Hall.
Robert Townshend
Chief, Fair Haven Fire Department