Cloverdale RFPD looks for volunteers

Since 1963, when local farmers got together, Cloverdale has had a rural fire protection district.

"May is the annual drive to enlist new volunteers to join this elite local group," said training officer and Captain John Thomas.

Cloverdale has two stations and covers 50 square miles of territory between Sisters, Redmond and Bend according to Thomas. "We have the latest tech in our department. Each station has an engine, tender (with 3,000 gallon water capacity), a heavy brush rig, and a first-response vehicle with defibrillator."

There are about 2,000 homes within the Cloverdale district and no hydrants, hence the importance of the two water tenders.

The group drills every Monday evening for two hours all year. "We have on average 180 response calls each year responding to wildfires, house fires, medical emergencies and handling hazardous materials," continued Thomas.

"Our group has a lot of camaraderie and close personal relationships. We depend on teamwork and each other for safety in hazardous situations."

Volunteers have to be 18 years of age to join the Cloverdale team. Presently, there is one female firefighter, Deanne Dement, with the group. Longtime members are Matt Cyrus (23 years) and Chris Holt (17 years) serving their community. Chuck Cable has been Chief for the last 10 years

There is a five-member Board of Directors for the district and they oversee a yearly budget of $200,000.

"Volunteerism is alive and well in the Cloverdale district," said Thomas. "Our community is very proud of this department and they welcome us with open arms. We also have wonderful relations with the other 14 fire departments in Central Oregon. We train together, and the mutual aid is above reproach -- bar none."

Call 548-4815 for more information.