Garden Spot Fire Rescue (GSFR39) reported a highly active and productive month of October, responding to 61 incidents while also completing major training programs, community outreach events, and fire prevention activities. Volunteers handled a wide range of emergencies, including technical rescues, vehicle accidents with entrapment, fires, odor investigations, and alarm activations.

According to GSFR39, training remained a top priority throughout the month. Weekly Tuesday night company drills consistently drew more than 25 volunteers, while biweekly probationary (“proby”) sessions provided focused skill development for new members and junior firefighters. The department also celebrated the successful completion of its first Truck Company Academy, which concluded with a live-burn skills day at the West Chester training facility. Members from GSFR, Martindale, and Weaverland participated in and completed the intensive program.

During the New Holland Fair, GSFR crews partnered with apparatus, EMS units, fire police, and regional agencies to manage public safety as the town’s population surged from 6,000 to over 55,000 during parade night. Additional GSFR personnel provided coverage each evening to maintain emergency readiness throughout the event.

Fire prevention efforts were also in full swing. Firefighters delivered programs to students at Blue Ball and New Holland Elementary Schools, meeting hundreds of children from kindergarten through fifth grade to discuss fire safety and explore fire apparatus. Fire officers additionally conducted annual inspections and fire drills at a local facility.

GSFR reported that several members met the prerequisites to begin Tower Driver training, spending a full weekend in classroom and hands-on sessions to prepare for operational testing. Upon completion of required hours and evaluations, these members will become probationary tower operators.

Community engagement remained strong, with GSFR crews participating in fall events at various local churches and meeting residents to showcase equipment and answer questions. On Halloween night, GSFR apparatus traveled through neighborhoods across New Holland and Blue Ball, visiting trick-or-treaters and interacting with families.

GSFR expressed deep appreciation for its dedicated volunteers and their families, acknowledging the daily sacrifices they make to keep the department moving forward. The organization also thanked local businesses and community members for their ongoing financial support and for permitting employees to respond to emergencies during working hours — support that, according to GSFR39, has a direct and positive impact on their ability to serve.