From the Chief,

Dear Neighbor,
 
We are well into the spring and hope yours has been enjoyable and safe.  We want to update you about what we’ve been doing and explain how you are an important part of the Scruggs Volunteer Fire Company.
​
Between May 1, 2019 and May 1, 2020 we responded to 365 fire-related calls. We’re glad to help, but you can help us too. We will make fewer calls if you observe no-burn regulations, if you check your home smoke detectors regularly, keep leaves and debris cleaned up around your house, and if you always drive defensively with your seatbelt on and the children properly restrained. Every day that you don’t need our services contributes to our healthy, safe community.
 
Despite your efforts in building that community, we know that appliances can overheat and that lightning does strike. When emergencies happen, you become central to the Scruggs Volunteer Fire Company’s effectiveness. You are our eyes. When you call 911 with clear directions about the location and nature of the emergency, you become a valued member of our department. We appreciate that assistance.
 
As you pass the Scruggs building, you see vehicles that you have helped us buy. The Fire Company primarily uses 6 of those vehicles during the year. Just the maintenance, inspections, licensees, and related equipment improvements cost $14,080, which is up from last year, between July 1, 2019 and May 1, 2020. We are still looking at replacing hoses, valves, nozzles, and fittings, which are outdated by 30 years or older.  Over the next 4 years these have to be replaced which are now at present time costing $67,000.00. We also need to purchase a new $136,000.00 self-contained breathing apparatus. Franklin County gives us $21,000 towards our $64,000 budget. Due to the present situation with Covid-19 we have spent a lot of our funds getting safety equipment and training to keep us and the community safe. We now have 4 certified Infection Control Officers in our department.
 
Looking ahead to our new fiscal year, July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, we continue to need your participation. We will still have significant building and vehicle maintenance needs.  Without your generous donations we wouldn’t be able to operate. 
 
Thank you for all your support. Due to the circumstances, we do not have a date for our Chicken BBQ at this time. When a date is available we will advertise on the radio, newspaper, flyers, and electronic signs. 
 
We hope the rest of your year is fulfilling.  Feel free to drop in and say “hello” if you see us working around the building once the Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted. 
 
Sincerely,
​Dempsey Moore, Chief

Dempsey Moore,
Fire Chief