When the first fire department in Rockaway Borough was organized in November 1897, it brought two advantages in protecting the lives and properties of residents. It created an organized effort in fire fighting and introduced new equipment called the jumper, a two-wheeled, hand-drawn hose reel that was stationed around the town. The jumper, equipped with a 250-foot hose, two kerosene lanterns and a bell, replaced the bucket brigade.

Today, more than 110 years later, the one thing that hasn’t changed since the department’s birth is the need to capture the imagination of new recruits willing to offer their time and energy to answer the bell. Last year there were 550 emergency fire and ambulance calls, according to Fire Chief Tim Swanick.

"The borough is looking for a few good men and women to offer their time as firefighters or first aid volunteers," Swanick said. Officials will be on hand to discuss the job requirements and challenges of becoming a first responder on Tuesday, Jan. 29, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Rockaway Borough Fire Station, located at 1 East Main St.

"We’re looking for adult volunteers, 18 years and older, to fill fire fighting and first aid vacancies, and junior volunteers, ages 16 and 17, who aspire to be firefighters or first aid responders," Swanick said.

All firefighting and medical training candidates begin their training in house. According to Swanick, seasoned trainers conduct a 40-hour medical course.

"Firefighters also attend a 120-hour course at Morris County Fire Academy. The department pays for all training, equipment and uniforms," he added.

The Rockaway Borough Fire Department comprises six fire trucks, one ambulance and 32 volunteers who, when not on call, work full-time jobs in diverse fields, such as: law enforcement, public works, city government and commercial enterprises.

Currently, the borough’s fire department is slightly understaffed.

"For the past 25 years we have averaged 40 volunteers and have never reached the 60 personnel level authorized," Swanick said.

For those interested in more information, call Fire Chief Swanick at 973-255-0659.

Photo/Bill Clare