Village of South Blooming Grove Announces Launch of New Volunteer Fire Department

The Village of South Blooming Grove is proud to announce the official launch of the South Blooming Grove Fire Department, designated as Orange County Department 60. This marks a historic milestone as the first new fire department established in Orange County since 2000.

The department has been established by the South Blooming Grove Village Board and is recognized by the Department of Homeland Security Emergency Services and the New York State Office of Fire Protection, the member roster comprises of 16 dedicated volunteers, all local community members. Every member is fully certified and has completed rigorous training equal to their operational duties, overseen and certified by Federal, State, and County authorities to ensure the highest standards of emergency response.

As a community-driven initiative, the department is fully donor-funded, operating without a burden on local taxpayers. The current fleet includes a high-capacity Engine Pumper and a state-of-the-art Rapid Response vehicle equipped with advanced apparatus and technology.

The establishment of Department 60 represents a significant leap forward in local public safety. By positioning personnel and resources directly within the village, the department slashes response times to a fraction of the previous status quo. This mission is further bolstered by a commitment to innovation, as the department is outfitted with the latest state-of-the-art tools, gear, and equipment available in modern firefighting. This addition to the village’s essential services drastically enhances life-safety protections, ensuring that all residents of South Blooming Grove have access to professional, rapid, and effective emergency services.

The official launching party featured New York State Assemblyman Aron Wieder as the Special Guest of Honor. In a notable opening speech, Assemblyman Wieder praised the Village Board for their vision and leadership, and the department’s dedication to community safety and the tireless efforts of the volunteers in bringing this essential service to fruition.

Emergency Contact Information:
To report a fire or gas emergency, the public should call the department’s 24/7 hotline immediately:
845.585.1212