Old Orchard Beach Fire Department Adds Five Full-Time Firefighters, Expands Staffing
Photo by Old Orchard Beach Fire-RescueNewly hired full-time firefighters pose in front of an Old Orchard Beach Fire Department engine after completing orientation and initial training.
Photo by Old Orchard Beach Fire-RescueNew firefighters participate in classroom instruction as part of the department’s 84-hour orientation program covering fire and EMS operations.
Photo by Old Orchard Beach Fire-RescueCrews practice vehicle extrication techniques during hands-on training, using hydraulic rescue tools under instructor supervision.
Photo by Old Orchard Beach Fire-RescueFirefighters complete a physical fitness and conditioning session inside the station as part of readiness and wellness training.
Photo by Old Orchard Beach Fire-RescueThe department’s five newest firefighters stand together following training evolutions, preparing to be assigned across all four shifts.
Photo by Old Orchard Beach Fire-RescueNew members conduct hands-on rescue training with extrication tools, reinforcing skills essential for motor vehicle crash responses.
January 20, 2026 — The Old Orchard Beach Fire Department has welcomed five new full-time firefighters, marking a significant expansion of staffing aimed at strengthening emergency response and public safety in the community.
The new members include FF/EMT Hunter Cichon, FF/Paramedic Jonathan Bradbury, FF/EMT Jacob Lawrence, FF/EMT Noah Koch, and FF/Paramedic Cody Bilodeau. Four of the firefighters were hired into newly created positions, while the fifth fills an upcoming vacancy, increasing overall on-duty staffing levels.
All five firefighters successfully completed an 84-hour orientation program that covered a wide range of fire suppression, rescue, and emergency medical service skills. They have now been assigned to the department’s four shifts, where they will continue their field training under experienced personnel.
Department officials credited the expansion to the continued support of Town Manager Diana Asanza and the Old Orchard Beach Town Council, noting that the additional staffing will enhance response capability and improve service delivery for residents and visitors.
As part of their onboarding, the new firefighters also received instruction on the department’s history at the Harmon Museum, led by retired Captain Arthur Guerin, a former full-time firefighter who served from 1971 to 2005.
Fire officials said the addition of the new members represents a meaningful investment in the future of the department and the safety of the Old Orchard Beach community.
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