Most of us have never needed the Fire Department to race to our homes or business.
But nearly all of us have had some interaction with Westport firefighters. They help out during medical emergencies, weather emergencies, even routine inspections.
Now the Fire Department wants to know: How are we doing?
The second part is important. Westport has changed substantially since our fire stations were built.
(Case in point: The “new” firehouse across from 5 Guys replaced a much smaller station on Church Lane. It was repurposed in 1978 as the YMCA fitness center. That building long outlived its usefulness, and is now being incorporated into Bedford Square.)
Our firefighters are no longer volunteers; they’re full professionals. Their vehicles, equipment and methods have all evolved.
The Saugatuck fire station, in its long-time location on Riverside Avenue.
The size of residential houses — and construction materials used — continues to grow. So do our office buildings.
Also increasing: the number of calls the Fire Department answers on I-95 and the Merritt Parkway.
The survey is part of a broader study. Town officials must answer questions like: Are our fire stations located in the right places? How should we think about new technologies like drones and robotics?
Your input can help. Please click here for the survey. It runs through October 9.
The Vigilant Firehouse on Wilton Road, circa 1977. It now houses the Neat coffeehouse and and wine bar.