CROWN POINT, NY—The community has pulled behind Crown Point’s A.E. Phelps Volunteer Fire Department to help with some much-needed firefighting gear.
Fire Chief Joseph Norton said that when Crown Point Telephone/Bridge Point Communication heard about their need for powerful hand-held radios to use for interior-attack personnel, the company stepped forward and bought them.
“We noticed a need, and I reached out to four local businesses that have always been supportive,” he said.
“The phone company has always been a strong supporter of the fire service.”
The other three businesses that recently helped provide needed items are Avery Energy, Gunnison Orchard and Panther Pals Daycare.
Vital Link
“One need was of monstrous importance, making sure we had communication with the guys inside during a fire,” Norton said.
Bridge Point Communication bought the department seven hand-held portable radios, he said, three for interior attack and four for engine drivers.
“We used them on a fire in Ticonderoga,” the chief said. “It’s worked out well. I feel better sending the guys in.”
"Big Help"
Norton said the Fire Department has an annual budget, but sometimes they have to go beyond it for some items.
Crown Point Telephone/Bridge Point Communication President Shana Macey said that when they heard of the department’s need, they wanted to help.
“We’ve always worked together,” she said. “It’s a big help to us to know they’ve got a broken pole or lines down. We have direct communications with them.
“We understand the need for our emergency personnel to have access to the proper equipment.”
Other Equipment
Norton said they also bought, from Troy Fire Department, a good-condition used water cascade system for fighting fires, which Avery Energy helped them with.
And Jim LaPier of Jim’s Body Shop in Port Henry donated his time and use of his flatbed tow truck to go to Troy to pick it up.
Gunnison Orchard got them a 70-inch flatscreen television that’s used for training videos and presentations at the Fire Station.
Panther Pals aided with basic items needed at the firehouse.
Appreciated
Norton said they had 102 calls last year, averaging about eight volunteers per call.
The department’s budget comes from tax money and is usually reserved for vehicles and utilities, he said.
“We do have to stand on the road (for coin drops) or send letters for extra help,” he said.
“That’s why when someone comes through for us like this, we really appreciate it.”
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