Busy Fire Chiefs address Comstock Park Rotary

Deputy Chief Jeremy Kelly (left)  and Chief Dave Klomparens

On Thursday, members of the Comstock Park Rotary had an opportunity to experience what firefighters do from the second they receive a call until the completion of an investigation of a structure fire.  Using a recent structure fire as an example, Alpine Township's Chief Dave Klomparens and Deputy Chief Jeremy Kelly reviewed the steps taken by the fire department, how decisions were derived at, and how conclusions were based on fact.

 

Dave Klomparens is the only full time Alpine Township employee and the Township heavily depends on its on-call personnel of about 30 volunteers, as well as on assistance from neighboring communities with whom it shares mutual aid.  Dave explained some of the difficulties a department can run into, in particular when fighting a structure fire where no public water or hydrant is available.  He explained the three main goals of firefighters, the first and foremost dealing with the safety of the occupants, the public and the firefighters.  The second goal is to safe the structure, but if that is not possible because it will jeopardize safety or the fire is out of control, then the third goal is to minimize the losses.

 

The club was fortunate to receive this presentation as twice the two officers were called out to respond to emergency calls. Fortunately there were other volunteers who also responded to these calls allowing them to be back in time to present their excellent program.

 

Alpine Township is very proud of its firefighters and the job they do.