This new equipment was made possible through a statewide effort by the California Fire Foundation, a local grant from the Christine & Jalmer Berg Foundation, and a partnership with the Arcata Volunteer Firefighters Association.  

As part of a statewide effort, the California Fire Foundation,  with financial support from Pacific Gas & Electric, helps local fire departments and firefighter associations address issues such as wildfires, floods, and climate-caused disasters and to help us protect the lives that depend on us every day.   Without the generous support of the California Fire Foundation and Christine & Jalmer Berg Foundation, and the support of the Arcata Volunteer Fire Firefighters Association, specialized equipment like the “Gator” would not be possible.

The property is located adjacent to River Ridge Academy. Once built, Station 38 will serve neighborhoods and businesses including Sun City, Lawton Station, Hampton Lake, Buckwalter Place, Sandy Pointe, Shell Hall, Hampton Hall, The Farm, Pine Ridge and Pine Crest.

The project has been in the city’s capital improvements plan for several years, but previously had to be postponed because of lack of funding. Earlier this month, Petoskey City Council members approved a bid to finally begin work on the project. The final tally on the bid came out to nearly $7,000 less than what city officials had budgeted for in years past.

 

The “overhead doors” that will be replaced are the four roll-down doors on the front of the fire station, 100 W. Lake St. According to information in the capital improvements plan, the 30-year-old doors have rubber seals surrounding the glass windows, offering insulation. Over time, those seals have broken down, allowing condensation between the glass panes and reducing energy efficiency.

A vehicle extrication demonstration will be a key part of the New Baltimore Fire Department’s open house, which is scheduled to run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the station on Green Street. The vehicle extrication demonstration will take place at noon.  

“We will use the Jaws of Life to cut a car apart,” New Baltimore Fire Chief Jeff Stellman said. “We will probably have four firefighters running that scenario.”

The event will also include other indoor and outdoor activities. A series of community-oriented activities are planned for the open house, including a lottery board, raffle and children’s activities. Hot dogs, chips and pop will be available for a donation.