Unsurpassed in courage, dedication and caring, nearly 200 volunteer fire fighters serve in the Township's five fire companies -- Cheltenham, Elkins Park, Glenside, La Mott and Ogontz. These extraordinary individuals risk their lives to protect the lives and property of their neighbors.
Every volunteer spends hundreds of hours each year practicing fire fighting techniques and training with sophisticated equipment. In addition, they maintain a 24-hour a day readiness to respond to emergency calls, often sacrificing work, sleep or family events in the line of duty.
Fire fighters also strive to prevent fires from happening through education programs. Specially trained fire fighters visit local schools to teach youngsters how to avoid fire dangers. The Fire Expo, held in conjunction with National Fire Prevention Week each October, offers impressive apparatus demonstrations as well as expert advice on using smoke detectors properly and devising a personal home fire escape plan.
The entire community owes a tremendous debt of gratitude and respect to Cheltenham's volunteer fire fighters. For information on joining their proud ranks, contact the Fire Marshal, or visit the website www.ctfd.net to join the team.