Mound House volunteer firefighter update

MOUND HOUSE - District officials hope renewed efforts will bring additional manpower to the depleted volunteer fire department here.

Central Lyon County Fire District Chief Bill Driscoll said that three people have come forward to increase the number of volunteer firefighters in Mound House.

"Sam Brady, Bill Myer and Bob Nelson have made a commitment to move forward and make it work," Driscoll said. "I think they already got a few new names following the town board meeting last week."

The Mound House station has been operating with only four volunteers, all of whom have full-time jobs during the day. Volunteer Chief R.J. Fick's job often takes him out of town during the week. Fire calls in the community are being covered by Dayton and Silver City volunteers.

Driscoll emphasizes that the key to finding additional volunteers is recruitment.

"I cannot go out and bring in volunteers. We can provide the resources, but we need someone to carry the ball, to generate enthusiasm with the community," Driscoll said.

Led by volunteer Frankie Totedo, the recruitment campaign at the Mark Twain station resulted in an increase from two to 25 volunteers in the past year. Driscoll said Totedo has offered to assist wherever possible with recruitment efforts in Mound House.

Stretching from Silver Springs to Silver City, the Central Lyon County Fire District includes seven volunteer manned stations and the new Sutro Station, which houses the district offices and quarters and equipment for the full-time, paid emergency medical responders.

To volunteer: 246-6209.