Reelsville Fire Department to hold open house Saturday

REELSVILLE-- The Reelsville/Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department will be hosting an Open House Saturday, June 22 from 5-8 p.m. at the Reelsville Fire Station.

The idea of the open house came when the department thought it would be a good idea to have the community meet the people who are donating their time working to protect them.

"We just basically wanted to have an open house to basically show the community what we do in terms of our equipment and our response capabilities," said John McPherson. "It's kind of a meet and greet for the people who may not know who their fire department members are."

During the event, the department will be serving hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and ice cream.

The department started a Recruitment Campaign this spring and would like for anyone interested in joining the department to come and meet the firefighters, see their equipment and fill out an application.

"We are looking for people who would be interested in joining the department," McPherson said. "Most of us are not young anymore. We would take anybody that's interested."

The only restrictions on applicants is that they must be at least 18 years old with a valid Indiana driver's license.

No experience is needed as training will be provided free of charge for anyone who is interested in joining.

"We're looking for fire fighters, but we also do a lot of medical runs," McPherson said. "We're also looking for those who might have an interest in the EMS side as well."

The members of the department will be able to answer any questions one may have. They will also be putting on several demonstrations throughout the evening such as the cutting up of a car, spraying water and working with the equipment.

"There's quite a bit to show those that might be interested," McPherson said.

The department currently has 28 active members and is always looking for more. Interested participants do not have to be from Washington Township. However, it is preferred that they live within a 10-mile radius.