04/07 - Kuhl Hose & Fairview Fire Departments received the VOLUNTARY RESCUE SERVICE RECOGNITION today at a press conference held at Fairview Station #52.  The Certification program is a joint venture of the Department of Health, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services, the State Fire Commissioner and the Rescue Task Force of the PA Emergency Health Services Council.  The recognitions are the second and third such recognitions in the seven counties of North Western Pennsylvania served by the EMMCO West regional EMS Council.  Perry Hiway Hose Company was the first recognized in the region.

Kuhl Hose and Fairview both spent the last two years working toward this recognition which encompassed completion of vehicle rescue training, use of power and hand tools, rope rescue training, Emergency Medical Technician and First Responder Training and most importantly our rescue vehicles and the equipment required.

Kuhl Hose, being a landlocked Township, covers 37 squares miles of area and runs mutual aid to 9 other Fire Departments with just 20 volunteers that are very dedicated to this recognition program.  Kuhl Hose runs close to 500 emergency responses with over 50 requests each year for rescue service.  Kuhl Hose received their First Response level of recognition.  Kuhl Hose was also honored by the Greene Township Supervisors for our accomplishments and continued dedication and commitment to the Greene Township Community.

Fairview Fire Department covers 60 square miles including ravines, waterways and a section of Interstate 90.  With 20 volunteers Fairview responds to close to 100 requests for rescues each year.  Fairview received their Operations level of recognition.

Today's press conference was held by EMMCO West the 7 county regional EMS Council in NW Pennsylvania.  The presentations were made by Jane Hamza, Education Specialist, and Bill McClincy, Executive Director. 

Emmco West Regional EMS Council  www.emmco.org

Information on the program can be found on the EMMCO web site

  The State recognition and our recognition from the Greene Township Supervisors

  EMMCO West staff Bill McClincy & Jane Hamza

    Presentation to Kuhl Hose and Fairview by Bill McClincy

Presentation by Greene Township Supervisor and Kuhl Hose Life Member Clarence Hess

  Thanks to Fairview Auxiliary for refreshments.