Engine Company 37 was assigned the RIT company for this small fire in Company 26’s first due yesterday. Company 26 was originally dispatched for an outside fire of mattresses outside the apartment. On arrival they found the mattresses with extension into the ground level apartment and requested the full box. Engine 37 with 6 volunteers arrived 3rd but kept our dispatched position of 4th due RIT company. Units operated for just under an hour before going back in service. This was the 16th call in 26 hours for the volunteers of Ritchie. ...

*6/13/20 -5 Box – 600 Blk of Balboa Ave* After clearing a box in Company 29’s first due, Engine Company 37 w/4 was alerted for the “House On Fire” with multiple calls. Company 37 was dispatched as the second due engine and arrived as dispatched, securing the first due engines water supply. Initial units arrived on scene with fire showing from side charlie of a two story single family home. Fire was found in a garage with extension into the home. The crew of 37 stretched a hand line to division one where fire was found and extinguished. Units operated on scene for more than 3 hours before returning to service. ...

In the fire service, the engine company carries a variety of different tools, appliances and operate in many different ways. One thing that does not change is the fact that the engine carries the hose that ultimately puts the fire out. Over a year ago, a measuring wheel was placed on the wagon. The purpose of this wheel is to be able to help identify the length’s of supply line needed when laying out, as well as length of attack lines to different points. The wheel is convenient to pull out during medical calls, or other non emergency calls, just to get a rough estimate of a layout or stretch. With that said the wheel does not replace putting actual hose in the street and training on different attack line lengths. As a company, we still get out and train by pulling lines and staying proficient. This particular night, after a box alarm that proved to be good intent, the crew broke out the wheel. During this time, we were able to determine how much hose would be needed when laying supply line from multiple different water sources, and identifying potential issues before they arise. Being proactive and training helps build confidence when the tones drop! ...

Special thanks to @goldsritchiestation, @fitfinatix / @thevitalityjuicebar and @bfreshfoods . Recently, these three companies provided our department with health conscious meals and fresh bottle juices. In total, we were given close to 60 meals and 30 drinks! With Maryland Gym’s opening next week, make sure you check out @goldsritchiestation for a membership and products from @bfreshfoods and @thevitalityjuicebar. Thank you again guys! ...

The Ritchie Volunteer Fire Department regrets to announce the passing of Founding member and first Fire Chief Joe Ball. Joe was the driving force behind the creation of the department and paved the way for what we have become today. Chief Ball served as Fire Chief until 1982 and continued to be a mentor over the years since. Please keep his family friends along with the department in your thoughts.

As information becomes available for services we will provide updates. ...