On Saturday 5/16/09 SWACFD hosted a District 3 Firefighter Skill Blitz. The day provided an opportunity for firefighters in Mandatory and FF 1/2 programs to practice/complete the skills and also for any firefighter desiring to polish up on skills. Offered were car and flash pan extinguishment utilizing propane props, forcible entry, ground ladder ,ventilation, hose stream and hose advancement skills, SCBA confidence course, and live room burns. Departments participating included SWACFD, Aboite, Roanoke, Poe, Elkhart, Huntertown, St. Joe, and Jackson Township.

Fire heavily damaged a barn located on Homestead Rd. near Lwr. Huntington Rd. District personnel along with several county departments were dispatched to the fire. Upon arrival firefighters found heavy fire on both the first and second floor of the barn. It took over two hours to fully control the fire due to stuctural instability.

The District took delivery of two heavy duty forcible entry training props. These props are designed for use by both fire and law enforcement personnel. The props were purchased via the Indiana Fire Service Infrastructure Grant.

District units were dispatched to a reported residential structure fire at 2:46 p.m. Upon arrival firefighters found two rooms fully engulfed along with heavy fire in the attic. Additional units from Aboite, Poe, Washington Twp. Roanoke and New Haven responded to assist. Two firefighters suffered minor injuries and the family cat perished in the blaze. The cause was accidental.

We are happy to announce that after forty years, the original Wayne Township Pumper #1 has returned home. The pumper was purchased new in 1941 and was the original engine to respond out of what is now Southwest Station 1, located in Waynedale. The 41 still has some of the Wayne Twp. markings on it. According to records the Alf was replaced in 1967. From there we're not sure of all the travels this truck made but we do know it made it to Texas and Arkansas. It was purchased from Jerald Burns from Palestine, AR. Jerald collects antique fire equipment and contacted us when he added the 41 to his collection. Jerald was kind enough to deliver the truck to us and we certainly appreciate all his help to bring the truck back home. As the truck progresses, we will post more articles on the web site. When finished, the 41 will return to it's original bay located at the rear of Station #1.