Summer 2013

Dick Volk - Life Member
September 5th 2013

It is with deep regret that The Green Tree Volunteer Fire Company announces the passing of long time member Dick Volk. Mr. Volk was a Life Member of GTVFC and had served with the company since 1959.

Sportsman's Bash Thank you!
Sunday September 8th 2013

The Green Tree and Ingram Sportman's Bash was a huge success this year. Thanks to all who attended and to those who purchased tickets.


Parkway Cameras

Traffic Cameras along Parkway Corridor


Summer Newsletter Article

You call...we answer.

Question:  What do the following things have in common?

Fires, smoke alarms, car accidents, downed power lines, carbon monoxide alarms, gas    leaks, hazardous materials spills, bomb threats, injured/trapped people, and flooding.

Answer:  When these things happen, people call 9-1-1.  And when they do, we show up.

In today's society, the fire service has become a community safety net.  Fire or no fire, when bad things happen we are usually in the mix.  Gone are the days when firefighters just fought fires.  Today's firefighter must be ready for anything; a jack of all trades.  They must have the tools and the knowledge to tackle an endless list of emergencies, and an ability to restore order where there is panic.  They must constantly train and study to keep up with new technology, new hazards, and new standards.  And in performing their duties, firefighters must accept the inherent risks of the trade: some conventional and some unconventional (recall the December 2012 shooting of two volunteer firefighters in upstate New York).
 
A tall order to fill?  Yes.  A major challenge for fire departments everywhere?  Yes.  Potentially the most important and rewarding service that someone can volunteer to do?  Absolutely. 

Every newsletter, we remind you that Green Tree Borough is protected by a 100% volunteer fire/rescue company.  As residents of this community (along with several dedicated volunteers from the nearby City of Pittsburgh), we respond to over 350 alarms a year.  We carry pagers day and night to alert us to emergencies, leave our families at the dinner table, jump out of our warm beds at night, sacrifice our personal time, and risk our safety to help others in need.  Sound crazy?  We don't think so.  To us, it's just the right thing to do. 
The volunteer fire service isn't for everyone.  That being said, many who never imagined themselves in that role have tried it, loved it, and gone on to have many years of dedicated service.  Now, more than ever, volunteer fire companies need new members.  Does it require you to give a lot?  Yes.  Will you get far more in return?  Without a doubt. 

The fire company drills on Tuesday nights at the station on Poplar Street, so stop in and see us.  If you can't do that, send us an email.  Ask about ways that you can help.  There's no harm in asking, and we'll gladly give you honest answers to your questions.  Can't volunteer?  Please help by donating to our annual fund drive that went out earlier this year.  Every bit helps.  And to all high-school and college students - we know you're out there, and summer is coming.  Get your volunteer hours for school by doing work around the station and learn about the fire service at the same time!

A closing thought: “I don't know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve." - Albert Schweitzer

For general questions and inquiries please email us at webmaster@greentreefire.com

If you are interested in joining our team please email recruitment@greentreefire.com