The year 2022 has come and gone at the Potsdam Fire Department. A lot has gone on at the Fire Department this past year including answering 620 calls for service. Engine 49, which is operated by the 4 paid Fire Drivers was the busiest apparatus in the fleet answering 446 of those 620 calls. The Department answered 492 calls in the Village of Potsdam, 98 calls in the Fire protection area outside the Village, and 30 mutual aid calls.

Fire Driver Robert Pierce retired after 33 years of service. Fire Driver Matthew Kroeger was hired. The Department was able to secure new equipment including battery powered Hurst extrication tools, as well as battery operated power equipment (saws, lighting) Members completed numerous hours of training, both in house and State Fire Classes. The Potsdam Fire Department also placed an order for a new heavy rescue truck to replace our current rescue which is a 1994. The new unit should be in service by the end of 2023.

The Department was able to participate in the annual review of the department including the Run to the River, which Company #2 won. Members attended the 2022 Northern NY fire convention held in Morristown along with parades throughout the county.

Members had a successful Christmas tree sale raising over $5000 to help purchase equipment in 2023. Members also distributed “coin cards” which is our annual fund drive to help with costs associated with the Department.

Some things upcoming in 2023 include: The Department, with assistance from the Village of Potsdam is also attempting to secure funds to replace our Self Contained Breathing apparatus which turns 20 years old this year.

The Potsdam Fire Department would like to thank everyone for the continued support of the department, and wish everyone a safe and Happy New Year.