Wetdown Planned To Celebrate New Holmdel Fire Co. Ladder Truck

August 21, 2023 - Holmdel Fire & Rescue Company #2 will host a wetdown on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2023, from 1 to 5 pm, celebrating the new ladder truck.

The public is invited to join in the celebration or “blessing” of the ladder truck at the firehouse at 12 Crawfords Corner Road. There will be a barbecue, music, beer and many activities for the public.

Background

In January 2019, Holmdel Township released the long-awaited fire study by Dr. Harry Carter.

Among the key findings, the study indicated there is a need: (1) to increase the number of firefighters, (2) for a centrally located firehouse to reduce response time that is above the recommended standard of 12 minutes, and (3) to replace and refurbish existing fire trucks as soon as possible. Concerning fire apparatus, Dr. Carter specifically recommended replacing engine 18-75 and aerial 18-90 as soon as possible.

Alarmed by the study and the increase in homeowners’ insurance policies due to the increase in a community fire rating that affected all Holmdel residents, a grassroots group called FAST was formed in February 2019 to highlight the results of the fire study and to promote actions by the Holmdel Township Committee to address the conditions. The downgrade of Holmdel’s community fire rating by ISO, which raised our insurance rates, served as a hidden tax for every household in Holmdel since 2018.

See also https://holmdelfast.wixsite.com/home

Over the last four years, thanks to Township Committee members who also shared the concerns about fire safety, a new centrally located firehouse was built on Crawford Corners Road next to the US Post Office. Holmdel Fire & Rescue Company #2 has taken delivery of a new fire engine and now a new ladder truck.

Holmdel residents are invited to come and join this event.