Holton, New Marion firefighters take hazmat class

According to Holton Fire Chief Dale Comer, they are partnering with New Marion Vol. Fire Department to bring better service to both the communities they respectively serve.

Chief Comer told the Osgood Journal they have been doing trainings together and responding to calls together and it is working. Holton recently signed a mutual aid contract with New Marion. They also work closely with Campbell Township Vol. Fire Department just in Jennings County due to the proximity of area they serve.

Comer noted that the only way for small, rural, volunteer fire departments to give the best service is to partner with others and work as one. That’s what they have been doing with their neighboring fire departments.

The Otter Creek Vol. Fire Department, more commonly referred to as Holton Fire Dept., has nine firefighters who are state certified as First Responder. Comer noted that every firefighter at Holton has at least the minimum state mandatory requirement. Seven of the firefighters have both Firefighter I and Firefighter II level of training, which is 400 hours for both; three are EMTs, they have a Paramedic and a roster of 30 that are ready to come to your call whatever the situation.

This didn’t come about overnight. However, they have been working at a rapid pace to bring this knowledge to the community and even reach out to others with their skills.

Lt. Ron Reynolds, Jr., comes to the Holton Fire Dept. from another area, and brings with him multiple years of experience, not only as a firefighter, but as an instructor. Under his leadership, the department has seen a growth in learning and having an in-house instructor has been a plus, according to Comer. He now serves as Holton’s Safety Training Officer.

Chief Comer noted that Tony Starkey is the Assistant Chief, with Ryan Beckett being 2nd Lt. and Levi Beiler being 1st Captain.

The department continues to apply for grants and has a few big ones in waiting. They have applied for three grants that total $90,000. They will purchase a much needed first response/command vehicle, extrication tools/medical supplies and 30 mannequins with the funds. The mannequins will be in allotments of 10 each – infant, children, and adult. The goal is to open up a CPR/First Aid class to the community and use the mannequins. Comer noted in the rural, farming area they serve, they could potentially be one of the greatest ways to save lives.

They have applied for an AFG (federal) grant of $350,000. If obtained, they will purchase a new tanker, which would have a capacity of 3,000 gallons, exactly double what they have now. With the area they serve, this would be extremely beneficial, since there are no hydrants most often.

The early part of 2024 has been challenging for the Holton department. They have had some funding cuts but continue to push forward with training and the generosity of the community. They are always very thankful for grants they receive and pledge to put them to the best use possible.

The Holton department has some exciting events coming up this summer and fall. They are planning a UTV/Jeep Ride for June 29 that promises to have twists and turns that will thrill the ride enthusiast. Also, the Holton Jamboree will be revived on September 7 with multiple bands performing in the town park, with other festivities.

“We have been doing a lot behind the scenes,” noted Chief Comer, who says they will work toward making these events not just fundraisers, but something everyone looks forward to each year. You can follow them on Facebook and watch this newspaper for more information closer to these dates.