Winston-Salem Fire Department Launches New Rescue Unit

Fire Department -  July 13, 2006
Contact: Chief John Gist, 773-7900
District Chief Arlin Sechrist, 773-7950

The Winston-Salem Fire Department has activated a new unit for specialized rescue incidents, including all incidents in which fire fighters need to be rescued.

Called Rescue One, the 12-member unit is trained in heavy vehicle rescue, hazardous materials response and rescues involving confined spaces or high elevations. The unit will respond to all confirmed fires to provide immediate assistance if required. Federal matching grants totaling almost $1.1 million over four years will help defray the cost of staffing the unit.

The unit will operate out of the fire station at 100 Arbor Road. It will respond to emergencies in the county when requested. Calls that would have been answered by the Arbor Road station will now be answered by fire stations on Academy Street and Peace Haven Road. Fire Chief John Gist says residents in the area will see no disruption in service with the change.

For more information call the Fire Department at 773-7900

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