In July 2026, members of Highland Hose Co. No. 1 recorded 594 firefighter hours while responding to alarms, participating in meetings and training, supporting neighborhood events, and helping out nearby fire departments.

Chief Jeffrey A. DiMetro's July report states that 51 fire alarms were attended to by Highland firefighters. The largest response brought in 29 firemen, with an average of 11 firefighters per call.

Throughout the month, members also documented 113 apparatus answers.

Along with an additional 58 hours for meetings, 177 hours for training, and 83 hours for other events, the department claimed that 276 fireman hours were devoted to alarms. These activities added up to 594 hours.

The numbers provide a snapshot of the work required to keep a volunteer fire company operating beyond the emergency calls themselves. Training, company meetings, equipment readiness and community activities all require members to give time away from their regular work and family responsibilities.

July also included a difficult assignment for Highland members as they attended the wake and funeral services for Cottekill Fire Department Chief David A. Gagnon, who died in the line of duty on July 3 while helping clear a fallen tree in the Town of Rosendale. Gagnon was struck by a portion of the tree and later died from his injuries.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul directed flags at state government buildings to be flown at half-staff on July 9 in Gagnon's honor.

Highland members also represented the company at the Ulster County Volunteer Firemen's Association Parade in Napanoch on July 25. The association's annual parade brings departments together for firematic competition and fellowship outside of emergency operations. Public records show the Ulster County parade has long included categories recognizing apparatus, uniforms, marching units and other aspects of fire-company presentation.