Sheppton-Oneida Volunteer Fire Company

The Officers and Members of the Sheppton-Oneida Volunteer Fire Company are committed to effective fire prevention to extinguish fires before they even start. We conduct tours and demonstrations for local organizations and businesses in subjects of fire prevention, fire extinguisher training, and related subjects. Call or email us for more information.

This section of our website also contacts a frequently asked questions section to better explain some of the services we provide and answer some of the questions residents and business owners may have.

In a fire emergency:

Get family members, pets, and yourself out of the house as quickly as possible.
Call 911 from your neighbor's house or a cellular phone once you reach safety.
Remain calm and tell the 911 dispatcher your address and information.
Stay out of your home. Our firefighters have specialized equipment and training to protect them from this dangerous environment.
All homes should have a designated meeting place away from the house.
Practice fire drills at least twice a year and make sure you have two seperate exit routes.
If you encounter smoke, crawl underneath it to your exit or utilize your second exit.
If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop, cover your face, and roll until you smother the flames.

Smoke Detectors Save Lives

Every home should have one smoke detector on each level and outside each bedroom.
You should test smoke detectors monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
Keep the smoke detector clean and free of dust.
Replace the smoke detector per the manufacturer's recommendations.
Most importantly: The smoke detector doesn't help if it doesn't work.

Use Electrical Safety

Don't overload extension cords or run them under rugs.
Replace any cord that is cracked or frayed.
If an appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it and have it repaired by a professional.
Use the proper size fuses in your fuse box.
Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit.
Check your electrical tools regularly for signs of wear. If the cords are worn or frayed, they need to be replaced.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms & Prevention

Install at least one UL (Underwriters Laboratories) carbon monoxide alarm with an audible warning signal near each sleeping area and outside individual bedrooms. Carbon monoxide alarms are measure levels of CO over time and are designed an alarm before and average, healthy adult would experience symptoms.
It is very possible that you may not be experiencing symptoms when the CO alarm sounds.
Even though the alarm may not sound, carbon monoxide may still be present.
Have a qualified professional check all fuel-burning appliances, vents, and chimneys annually.
Never use a stove to heat your home.
Never keep a car running in your garage even with the door open.
When purchasing and existing home have a qualified professional evaluate the integrity of the heating and cooking systems as well as the sealed spaces between the garage and house. The presence of a CO alarm in your house can prevent illness and death in the event of a CO leak.

Space Heaters & Heating Safety Tips

Keep portable and space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that is combustible.
Never leave heaters on when you leave home or got to bed.
Keep children and pets away from heater.
Keep fire in the fireplace. Use fire screens and have your chimney cleaned annually. The creosote buildup can ignite a chimney fire that could easily spread.
Kerosene heaters should be used only where approved by authorities. Never use gasoline or camp-stove fuel. Refuel outside and only after the heater has cooled.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Why did I receive a bill for fire and/or rescue services?

A: Over the past years with development of East Union Township, our call volume has increased significantly. With this change, non-resident traffic has increased on our roads and through our towns and we have seen a sharp increase in the amount of non-residents who require our services. Due to legalities, we must bill residents and non-residents alike. We ask that you forward the bill to your insurance provider since most include a clause to cover such services. We will accept whatever payment, if any, they provide. Since residents pay township fire tax and contribute to our fundraising efforts, we will NEVER force collection on any East Union Township resident.

Q: Why did the fire department cut a hole in my roof at my recent fire?

A: This procedure, referred to as ventilation, is performed to allow the superheated gases and smoke to exit the structure before it becomes a problem or firefighters. This procedure allows our personnel to see better inside the structure to find trapped residents and prevents firefighters from getting burned by superheated material. We attempt to do the least amount of damage possible such as opening a window rather than smashing it.

Q: What is the money that is collected from the fund drive used for?

A: As a 100% volunteer fire company with minimal municipal support, the basis for our daily operation is derived from the money we collect in the fund drive. This money is mainly used to purchase new and inmproved firefighting equipment and vehicles. We recently placed into service a 1987 Mack 4Guys tanker at a cost of $40,000 and a 1984 3D Duplex Telesquirt at a price of $55,000. Money from the fund drive must also be used to pay utility bills and other expenses. Please continue to support our fund drive as you have in the past.

"A Firefighter's Life"

A firefighter's life is one big surprise,
Usually he laughs,sometimes he cries,
There's always stress, toil and strife,
Hoping he's good enough to save just one life.
His wife understands when he misses dinner,
If he runs out of church, don't think he's a sinner.
Answering a call is tops on his list,
Regretting each one he's ever missed.
He tries and tries, but can't make us see,
The happiest men, still work for free.
Jumping from bed, fighting the cold,
Knowing what to do with out being told.
He rushes to the station, jumps on a truck,
Depending on skill never on luck.
Putting his life on the line for an unknown friend,
Hoping and Praying it won't be the end.
"The Bravest men in the world" the title is fitting,
They all do their best never come close to quitting.
Next time you see them, all their lights blinking,
Take just a minute, to think what they're thinking.
It's a hard job, so show them you care,
And help them out with a little prayer.

"Firefighter's Prayer"

When I am called to duty, God
Wherever flames may rage
Give me the strength to save some life
Whatever be its age
Help me embrace a little child
Before it is too late
Or save an older person from
The horror of that fate
Enable me to be alert and
Hear the weakest shout
And quickly and efficiently
To put the fire out
I want to fill my calling and
To give the best in me
To guard my every neighbor
And protect their property
And if according to your will
I have to lose my life
Please bless with your protecting hand
My children and my wife.