New fire hall almost ready, dedication set

The major components of the new Cathlamet Fire House have been completed, Assistant Fire Chief Fred Johnson told The Eagle on Tuesday.

“We’re excited! And we are very grateful to Jerry and Linda DeBriae and to all the other donors.” Johnson said.

Firemen plan to move in equipment at the end of September. Invitations for a grand opening celebration planned for October 13 at 2 p.m. will be sent out soon, he said.

The new fire hall will be well equipped with the necessities to better serve the public. The new station includes liquid propane gas/heat/electricity and an emergency generator to power the vital functions of the station. A new air-compression system to replenish the SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) for fire fighters' airpacks has been installed. There are new enhanced sleeping rooms so the volunteers can be better rested for duty, Johnson explained.

“Our major goal is to enhance service to the public, not just have a fancy place to be,” he said.

The building will be used as an alternate emergency operations center, and there is a new area to maintain and keep records.

“We want more volunteers,” Johnson said. He went on to rave about the rewards of volunteering.

As far as the destiny of the Main Street station, it is up to the city council and the mayor as to what will be done with it.