Fuller Hose Company #1 answered 61 calls for service during the month of March, as members responded to a wide range of emergencies throughout North East and the surrounding area.
March was heavily impacted by changing weather conditions, with 28 weather-related incidents (March 15th and March 31st) making up a large portion of the company’s monthly activity.
In addition to storm-related calls, members also responded to:
• 7 structure fires
• 5 brush fires
• 3 automatic fire alarms
• 5 carbon monoxide and gas calls
• 3 motor vehicle accidents
• 2 water rescues
• 8 EMS assists
Of the department’s total call volume for the month, 16% were mutual aid responses, reflecting Fuller Hose Company #1’s continued commitment to supporting neighboring departments when needed.
Top 10 Responders — March 2026
Fuller Hose Company #1 recognizes the members who answered the call time and time again throughout the month:
- Joe Beach — 52 calls
- Ryan Hanes — 42 calls
- Chris Skrekla — 35 calls
- Doug Slater — 33 calls
- Brian Ropiecki — 33 calls
- Joe Fernandes — 31 calls
- Steve Wilkinson — 31 calls
- Steven Wilkinson — 30 calls
- Chad Hulings — 30 calls
- Mike Wilkinson Sr — 28 calls
These members represent the dedication, reliability, and commitment that keep our department ready to respond at a moment’s notice.
Training Highlights
Alongside emergency response, members continued advancing their training and certifications throughout the month.
Ryan Hanes completed Ice Rescue training, adding valuable capability to the department’s water and ice rescue readiness.
Erick Best and Matt Kimmy completed Essentials training, while Joe Beach began his Essentials coursework, continuing the department’s investment in preparing the next generation of firefighters.
In addition, the department completed its annual Hazmat Operations Refresher, ensuring members remain prepared to safely respond to hazardous materials incidents.
Community Engagement
March also included several meaningful opportunities to connect with the community outside of emergency response.
Fuller Hose Company #1 welcomed local Girl Scouts to the fire station, where they toured the firehouse and presented sensory kits designed to assist first responders when interacting with children with varying needs.
The company also hosted its Easter Ham Giveaway, providing support to local families and continuing its commitment to serving the community beyond the fireground.
In support of firefighter safety, the North East, PA Lions Club donated $1,000 to the department’s SCBA (air pack) fund. That contribution will help Fuller Hose Company #1 continue preparing for future breathing apparatus replacement needs and ensure firefighters have the equipment they need to operate safely.
Serving the Community — and Looking for More to Join
From emergency calls and training accomplishments to community outreach, March was another strong example of the dedication shown by the members of Fuller Hose Company #1.
If you have ever thought about giving back to your community, now is the time. Fuller Hose Company #1 is always looking for dedicated individuals who want to make a difference.
Interested in joining?
- Must be 21 years of age or older
- Must have a valid driver’s license
- Must live in North East Borough or North East Township
If you are looking for a meaningful way to serve your community, protect your neighbors, and be part of something bigger than yourself, Fuller Hose Company #1 would love to hear from you.
Fuller Hose Company #1 — Where Tradition, Pride, and Community Meet.
