This is a big week for the Imlay City Fire Department and the community it serves.
Saturday’s press conference at the fire hall detailing the success of the Imlay City Firemen’s Association new Smoke Detector Program was a testament to the dedication of the firefighters and the generosity of the community. Deeply affected by February’s tragic fire that claimed the lives of four children at the Maple Grove mobile home park, firefighters created the Smoke Detector Installation Program to help ensure that every Imlay City residence is equipped with a smoke detector and working batteries, beginning with the homes at Maple Grove park. Their efforts were embraced by the community—a total of $11,000 has been collected for the cause so far. Next Saturday, April 27, firefighters and community volunteers will gather at Maple Grove to volunteer their time installing smoke detectors to Maple Grove residences. More volunteers are needed and welcome. Individuals and/or organizations are encouraged to call the department at 810-724-6262. If advance notice isn’t possible, volunteers should show up at the fire hall on Third Street at 8 a.m. on April 27. Volunteers are encouraged to bring battery operated drills with bits and 4′ or 6′ step stools or step ladders.
The Department isn’t limiting their efforts to Maple Grove residents. Imlay City and Imlay Township residents in need of a smoke detector are encouraged to call the fire hall with their contact information. Firefighters will make mutually agreeable arrangements for installation.
Tomorrow evening’s groundbreaking for the Department’s new fire hall represents another major milestone for the department, which has roots dating back to 1876.
The new building—which will be constructed on a 2.66 acre site on East Borland Road—will replace the current fire hall on E. Third Street, which was built more than five decades ago. For years, firefighters and all their gear have been squeezed into that location, and like the true professionals that they are, have dealt with its limitations.
In a show of confidence for the department and all that it does in the community, voters last fall approved a 20-year, 2.0463 mill proposal to build a new fire hall.
The construction of a new, modern and spacious building is a long time coming for the dedicated, professional members of the Imlay City Fire Department, and promises to be a source of pride for the entire community.
