Hammond’s newest fire station, in Hessville, recently was introduced to the public during a Fire Prevention Open House.
“My kids love the firemen; we come to the open house every year to see what’s new,” Patrice Tanis said. “The kids are learning about fire safety at school, so today fits right in.”
At 6350 Parrish Avenue, Firehouse No. 8 is a one-level dwelling that had 30 beds, a media/living room, locker rooms, a kitchen with large breakfast bar and dining room table, and a maintenance workroom, in addition to state-of-the-art equipment and supplies.
Each of the three shifts that oversee this station consists of 10 firefighters. Shifts are divided into 24-hour segments — on 24 hours, off 48 hours. As such, the comforts of home are welcome when they are not out fighting fires.
“This new station replaces the old one on 165th Street,” said department Chief Jeff Smith, who traveled to Indianapolis with a few of his men to research other modern fire stations.
Construction on the empty land in the Hessville section of Hammond started this year and was completed in September.
October was Fire Prevention Month, so the fire department decided to unveil its newest gem, even though the move-in date was in September.
“The guys are extremely excited,” Smith said, “except for a few minor things, such as additional outside water faucets.”
One question was on the minds of many visitors during the tour, especially the children: “Where’s the fire pole?” They thought a ride down this traditional way of traveling to the firetrucks may be on the day’s agenda.
They learned from firefighter/tour guide Arron Arroyo that since everything was located on one level, there was no need for a pole.
“This small hallway outside the bedrooms is only a short walk to the firetrucks,” Arroyo said.
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In addition to the tours, there was a life-extraction demonstration, a raffle for smoke detectors, an LCD flat screen TV and various gift certificates.
For children, coloring activities, educational materials, personalized Hammond fire helmets and hot dogs caught their attention.
“We saw what they use on the firetrucks, that was cool,” said Joey Parres, 8, of Hammond. “I think I want to be a fireman when I grow up.”
Residents were impressed by the newly built firehouse.
“This (station) is beautiful. It’s great that the Ccity of Hammond takes care of its own,” resident Gayle Sinder said. “The firemen work hard. They deserve this.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.