PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – The Calvert County Board of Commissioners held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 16 to celebrate the opening of the new firehouse for the Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Department, Company 2 (PFVFD).
The ceremony kicked off with a welcome message from Jackie Vaughn, Director of Public Safety for Calvert County. She preceded speeches from Calvert County Commissioner Earl “Buddy” Hance, Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Department President Patrick Hassler, and Prince Frederick Fire Department Chief Joseph Della-Camera. Each person who spoke emphasized the importance of the new building because of issues such as outgrowth and ever-changing technology.
The nearly 30,000 square foot facility cost $11-million to build. There are now several new state-of-the-art features designed to enhance firefighter health and safety. The building incorporates improved technology to aid call response, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC, and more bunkrooms for firefighters. PFVFD responds to an average of 150 calls a month.
The previous building, constructed in 1959, at the time housed 30 volunteers. Now in 2021, the department has over 100 volunteers.
Construction for this building began in 2019, but the desire for a new building began over a decade ago. PFVFD President Hassler spoke to the crowd of volunteers and guests, “The dream started in 2004 out of a need for more space and an upgraded facility that would bring us more in line with industry best practices for health, safety, training, and gender differences.”
At the ceremony, Fire Chief Della-Camera spoke about the importance of the new firehouse beyond the newer equipment and technology. He said, “A fire station is also a guiding point for people… A landmark for direction. A place for community. A place for health. A place where mothers and fathers bring their curious and imagination-filled children to explore. A place where memories are made.”
Citations and proclamations were also given by members of local and state government, ranging from the Calvert County Chamber of Commerce to a representative from Governor Larry Hogan’s office.
As for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the members of the PFVFD chose to add a twist. Instead of a traditional ribbon, they cut a red pipe with a rescue saw they sometimes have to use.
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