Incidents included fire alarm activations, vehicle fires, public service calls, hazardous conditions, motor vehicle accidents, assistance to neighboring departments, and building fires. Some of the more serious incidents included motor vehicle accidents with trapped occupants, large brush fires, and building fires involving single family homes and multiple-occupancy townhouses.

      Although the fire department responded to more calls for help in 2003, the amount of occupied structure fires was actually down slightly from years past. First Assistant Chief Vini Tankasali cites the Department’s aggressive fire prevention program as part of the reason why. “We have an annual open house each October, where residents can get fire prevention tips and free safety materials. Additionally, for the past several years we have been making visits to area schools along with neighboring fire dept’s, teaching children from an early age about fire safety. Apparently, we are now seeing the fruits of our labor in the form of less serious fires.”

      The department, comprised of all volunteer members, also participated in weekly drill sessions and special training courses, enhancing their ability to provide the outstanding level of fire protection area residents have become accustomed to.

      The Monroe Fire Department / Mombasha Fire Company would like to thank all those who assisted them throughout the year, including Monroe residents, local businesses, and neighboring fire departments. Anyone interested in joining can call the Monroe FD membership hotline at 782-9516, or go to the Interested in Joining? page. Applicants must be over 16 years in age. All equipment and training will be provided.