The Bedford Fire Department

The Bedford Fire Department was organized on Monday, January 8, 1923, by John Kinkel, George McCabe, Sr. and a small group of dedicated local residents.  These individuals recognized the need for a fire department to serve the Bedford Village area.  Previously, fires and other emergencies were dealt with by neighboring fire departments or by hastily arranged groups of neighbors.

John Kinkel became the department’s first Fire Chief.  He served tirelessly in that capacity for 25 years.  George McCabe, Sr. assumed command and the Chief’s traditional “white helmet,” in 1948.  Since that time the leadership of the Bedford Fire Department has largely been held in two year terms by seasoned dedicated volunteer members of the department.

Early emergency calls to rally our membership consisted of a loud horn or gong.  The number of horn blasts alerted those early volunteer members of the nature of the emergency call.  Later, telephone chains were set up for those who couldn’t always hear the horn.  Modern technology now allows our members to carry pagers and receive text messages that summon them to emergencies.

The department’s primary mission is responding to fire and medical emergencies 24 / 7 - no exceptions.  Since 1923, we have responded to over 20,000 emergencies in our community.  They have included structure fires, medical emergencies, auto accidents, horseback riding accidents, lost children and sports injuries, among others.  The nature of the calls has changed over the decades from barn and brush fires to house fires, automobile accidents, automatic fire and carbon monoxide alarms and hazardous waste spills.

We still face may challenges, despite modernization and a safety culture.  Technology has made great strides in firefighter safety; however, it has also multiplied the hazards faced by our department.  Maintaining safety and effectiveness demands a large commitment to training by our members.  We respond to over 600 emergencies anually with our all volunteer staff.

We established a Youth Program in 2005.  The Youth Program is lead by adult members, under the Chief, and introduces its participants to the worlds of fire fighting & emergency medical response, and to volunteerism in the community.  If you or someone you know are interested, please take a look under the Youth Program tab for details.

The Bedford Fire Department has thrived over the years thanks to its volunteers and to the support of the community.  We thank you for that support and look forward to many more years of dedicated volunteer service.