Guests at Bethel Park Volunteer Fire Company Station 1’s open house tended to be smiling, whether they were trying on firefighting gear, having a close-up look at equipment or enjoying free hot dogs.
During their Oct. 2 visit, they also may have gained some insight as to the extent that their lives and property are being protected.
The company of about 70 members has three stations — on Clifton Road, Milford Drive and Brightwood Road, the main building and site of the open house — with a total of 10 vehicles and a specialized rescue trailer. Members respond to more than 400 emergencies annually.
Firefighters participate in extensive training, averaging 180 hours of classes in the essentials of firefighting during the first two years and 100 hours annually for those with five or more years of experience.
As has become the case for most all-volunteer firefighting entities, recruiting new members is a priority.
In Bethel Park, residents or property owners ages 18 and older are eligible to join. They are invited to learn more by talking with members of the company during their drills held at 6:30 p.m. each Monday at the Brightwood Road station.
More information also is available by emailing join@bethelparkvfc.com, or calling 412-835-1127 and choosing menu option 3 to leave your name and telephone number for a fire company member to contact you.
