The Goodhue Area Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department held its annual open house and fundraiser on Sunday October 16th. Although donations are welcome at any time, the event wrapped up the official fire prevention week and fundraising campaign that supports the volunteer department’s efforts to maintain, purchase and update equipment.
Members of the department were busy between 11 AM and 2 PM giving rides around town in the fire truck, answering questions and serving a lunch of chili and sweet rolls and soft serve ice cream. Young visitors were given plastic fire helmets and a packet containing a coloring book and crayons, stickers, and other fire prevention related goodies. The department also recently visited both the public school and St. John’s to bring awareness and fire prevention and safety skills to the children.
The fire and rescue department is a vital part of the community serving not only the cities of Goodhue and Bellechester, but the townships of Belle Creek, Belvidere, Chester, Feathersone, Goodhue, Hay Creek and Vasa. Their territory covers an area over 275 square miles and they also provide mutual aid to other local departments as needed. They hold 12 monthly meetings and complete over 1000 hours of training a year. In the past year they have responded to 151 medical and 63 fire calls. This training and experience keeps the 26 members up to date to provide the best possible service fighting fires, assisting at motor vehicle accidents or responding to medical emergencies. Donations to support these essential services may be sent to: Goodhue Fire Department, PO Box 66, Goodhue, MN 55027-0066.
