Longtime member Jeff Stephens takes reins at Blawnox Volunteer Fire Company
As the Blawnox Volunteer Fire Company nears its 100th anniversary, members have elected a new chief — one who has served nearly half of the department’s existence.
Jeff Stephens, a 42-year member, was elected in January to a two-year term after longtime head George McBriar retired.
“I would like to see the department grow and become even stronger,” said Stephens, who in his day job is facilities manager at Riverside Community Church in Oakmont.
“We hope to attract members of all ages, ready to serve their community while broadening our service capabilities.”
Jim Vento was named assistant chief.
Blawnox VFC was chartered in 1922 and operated out of a fire station along Blaw Avenue that was donated by the original mill, the Blaw-Knox Company.
Its main fire hall now sits adjacent to the municipal office at 376 Freeport Road.
The emergency service has grown into a roster of 40 members including active, social, industrial, lifetime and four junior members.
In 2020, volunteers responded to 373 calls.
Stephens said about a dozen members faithfully respond to every call, and his goal is to add another 10 to 12 active members.
“Daylight is the highest need but all volunteers are welcome,” he said.
Junior membership starts at 14 years old and regular membership at 18, with no experience required other than a desire to serve, he said.
“We will provide you with all necessary training,” he said.
It’s a priority for Stephens to add educational opportunities for existing members, as well.
Blawnox VFC provides emergency services to residents of the borough as well as mutual aid to surrounding municipalities. It plays a vital role in river rescue with its Level 2a Swiftwater Team, the first in the state to reach that level of designation.
River rescue expertise has proved crucial to communities situated along the Allegheny River as well as local areas affected by flooding conditions, said Stephens.
The fire company boats are kept in the water at the Center Avenue docks, and jet skis are housed at Station 1.
Stephens said he is eager to begin fundraising for a new state-of-the-art engine for his department.
They are in the early stages of planning for the replacement of the 2006 Pierce engine. That should take place within the next year or two.
To donate, visit blawnoxvfc.com/donations.cfm.
Tawnya Panizzi is a TribLive reporter. She joined the Trib in 1997. She can be reached at tpanizzi@triblive.com.
Remove the ads from your TribLIVE reading experience but still support the journalists who create the content with TribLIVE Ad-Free.