WEST Seneca Fire District #6<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\nYearly Call Totals <\/strong><\/span> for Fire & EMS:<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n\u00a0<\/td>\n EMS<\/td>\n FIRE<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nJanuary<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nFebruary<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nMarch<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nApril<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nMay<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nJune<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nJuly<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nAugust<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nSeptember<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nOctober<\/td>\n \u00a0<\/td>\n \u00a0<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nNovember<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nDecember<\/td>\n <\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n\nTOTAL<\/h4>\n<\/td>\n<\/td>\n <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Grand Total\u00a0<\/p>\n
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<\/h4>\nPrevious Year Totals<\/span><\/h6>\n<\/h3>\n1238 -2025<\/h3>\n1071 – 2024<\/h3>\n966 -2023<\/h3>\n993 -2022<\/h3>\n992 – 2021<\/h3>\n865 – 2020<\/h3>\n932 – 2019<\/span><\/h3>\n818 \u2013 2018<\/span><\/h3>\n846 – 2017<\/span><\/h3>\n784 – 2016<\/span><\/h3>\n817 – 2015<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/h3>\n<\/h3>\n
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2026 – Hubbard Koglmeier<\/p>\n
2023 -2025 Barbra Mann<\/p>\n
2021 – 2022 John Gullo
2020 Mike Baj
2018 \u2013 2019 John Gullo
2014 \u2013 2017 Andy Oscypala
2010 – 2013 John Gullo
2006 – 2009 Gary Parucki
2002 – 2005 Dave Willman
2000 – 2001 Rick Dollard
1998 – 1999 Dave Kohler
1996 – 1997 Daniel Sikorski
1994 – 1995 John Gullo
1992 – 1993 James McCullough
1990 – 1991 Gary Parucki
1988 – 1989 James McCullough
1986 – 1987 William R Coughlin
1984 – 1985 Thomas Bausch
1982 – 1983 Howard Nickolai
1980 – 1981 Richard Sainsbury
1978 – 1979 Thomas Casey
1977 Willaim Walkden
1976 William Falkner
1975 Richard Jones
1972 – 1974 James Nash
1970 – 1971 Harold Wonderly
1967 – 1969 Carlton Gick
1966 David Gooch
1964 – 1965 Walter Hahn
1962 – 1963 Robert J Mann
1960 – 1961 Howard Kintzel
1952 – 1959 Roy Waston
1947 – 1951 Edward Huber
1940 – 1946 John Stock
1938 August Moll
1936 Edward Keller
1935 Joseph Herbein
1934 Edward Keller
1928 – 1929 Edward Nye
1927 Benjamin Ulrich
1920 Robert Pietcher
1917 – 1919 Herman Zarnikau
1916 Frederick Ehinger Jr.
1899 Henry Frey, Asst Chief
1898 – 1901 William Vogel Sr.
1897 Charles Ertel
1896 Henry Mayer
1894 Frederick Ehinger Sr.
1893 Frederick Tingler<\/p>\n
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The History of the Vigilant Fire Company<\/p>\n
Vigilant Fire Company was organized on December 2, 1893 and became incorporated on February 7, 1896.\u00a0 Volunteer fire companies were very tightly knit social groups within their communities.\u00a0 Early companies were proud, exclusive, influential and very competitive.\u00a0 There still exists a “friendly” competitive spirit amount companies.<\/p>\n
A few of the old time members recall an incident in the 1930s when a fire call rang out.\u00a0 The call was for an assist in Gardenville and Vigilant was needed for mutual aid.\u00a0 Being first on the scene of fire was a proud moment for a company to beat another company to the scene that was in their area.<\/p>\n
Another incident was when the first motorized engine from Vigilant was driven so fast over the railroad tracks on Union that the engine fell out of the truck.<\/p>\n
The first audible alarm at the company was a large metal ring off of a railroad car from the Gardenville Yard of the New York Central Railroad.\u00a0 It is believed that Bennie Holstein obtained the wheel rim.\u00a0 When a fire was spotted, the first member to the hall would take a solid metal poll and smack the hanging hollow metal wheel rim.\u00a0 The sound was unique and loud and could be heard for long distances.\u00a0 Just like today, members would race to the hall, get dressed in their fire gear, hook to the horses and respond to the call.<\/p>\n
Vigilant was one of the first fire companies in the area to install an alarm system.\u00a0 It was maintenanind by John Holstein.\u00a0 Each alarm box was numbered.\u00a0 When an alarm was turned in, a bell in the steeple of the United Church of Christ would toll out the number of the alarm box.\u00a0 Each firefighter had a white card showing the box numbers and locations.<\/p>\n
To become a member, a candidate had to submit an application with a $5 fee and be interviewed by the \u201cVigilance Committee\u201d or what is now referred to as the investigating committee.<\/p>\n
As much as Vigilant was formed as a protection against fires, the company evolved into a center for social gatherings in the early years.\u00a0 The social environment of being a member still exists today, but in a much different manner.\u00a0 During the early years, a popular way of socializing and at the same time raising money was by holding card parties at the hall.\u00a0 PEDRO was the game most liked.\u00a0 The card and dance parties continued through the 1950s.<\/p>\n
The first motorized fire truck was obtained in 1920s The 1920 Buffalo Chemical Fire Truck was purchased for $6,500.\u00a0 This 1 \u00bd ton engine, model E12-120, received its chassis from Federal Motor Company in Detroit, MI.\u00a0 During the early fall 1920, the Vigilant member and Auxiliary held a week long fair at the hall to raise money for the new truck.\u00a0 They held dances, sold items, had pony rides and other entertainments.<\/p>\n
The West Seneca Town Board recognize the need to establish and organized system for managing the growing fire companies in town.\u00a0 In accordance with NYS Town Law, the board established six formal fire districts on September 4, 1935.\u00a0 Vigilant became known as West Seneca Fire District #6.\u00a0 A five-member commissioner board was appointed to a temporary term, which would expire on December 31, 1936.<\/p>\n
The new board quickly established an operating budget in 1936 in the amount of $1,784.\u00a0 These funds were set aside to buy rubber coats, boots, gas masks, wool mittens, pay for utilities, insurance and rental expenses.<\/p>\n
On December 8, 1935, the first commissioner election were held for the West Seneca Fire District #6.\u00a0 The results are as follows:<\/p>\n
Henry Moeller, 5 years term<\/p>\n
Henry Frey, 4-year term<\/p>\n
John Stellwegen, 3-year term<\/p>\n
Ed Keller, 2-year term<\/p>\n
Robert Pletscher, 1-year term<\/p>\n
Erwin Oeder, Treasurer, 3-year term<\/p>\n
In 1936, the town witnessed numerous floods and Vigilant responded to 38 alarms answered, 4 of which were false alarms and 14 assists to other companies.<\/p>\n
On April 3, 1938, there was a large fire on Seneca Street in Seneca Hose\u2019s District.\u00a0 One house was a total loss and two others received heavy damage.\u00a0 Over 950 feet of hose was laid by Vigilant, and the pumpers worked continuously for over two hours.<\/p>\n
In 1938, Vigilant participated in 27 parades in the area and won $95 in prize money.<\/p>\n
The following years, there was an increase in calls to 50 for the year.\u00a0 These included 28 assist class to other fire companies.<\/p>\n
On May 21, 1941, Vigilant took possession of 1941 Diamond T, No. 4103 500-gallon tank, Hercules CBJXD, 6 cly.\u00a0 This truck is still \u201cin service\u201d today, but appears for parades and shows only.\u00a0 It is highly regarded as Vigilant\u2019s antique fire truck.<\/p>\n
The 1940s were a somber time in the country due to World War II.\u00a0 A motion was passed January 7, 1942,\u00a0 based on the request from the Erie County Council of Civil Defense that they hall should be occupied at all times.\u00a0 This was to prevent enemy agents form destroying fire equipment, which should have been disastrous if this area were attacked.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Vigilant erected a lookout tower on the roof of the hall to observe for enemy planes.\u00a0\u00a0 After the war threat was over, Vigilant went back to normal operations.<\/p>\n
On May 19, 1948, a special election was held at the hall for authorizing the purchase of a 1948 Chevrolet Panel Truck to respond to emergency first aid calls.\u00a0 Vigilant was one of three Erie County fire companies that they had a squad for respond to rescues and first aid calls.\u00a0 A group of twenty members took a six-week first aid course, which qualifies them as first aid responders.\u00a0 The other fire companies at the time were The National Hose Company of the city of Tonawanda and the Main & Transit Fire Company of Williamsville.<\/p>\n
Ed Huber was chief at the time the rescue squad began, and looked to First Aid Captain Charlie Holstein and Fire Captain Carlton Gick to the the Squad.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We will respond to first aid and rescue calls on a 24-hour basis.\u00a0 The only difference is of course the complexity of vehicles used and the training the members receive today.<\/p>\n
In the late 1950s, new red lights on the fire trucks, first aid standbys at the HS football games, purchase of the first smoke ejector, and authorization for the first mobile credit card for the chief to buy gas, electronic windshield wipers for the trucks.\u00a0 The budget was $10,082.50.\u00a0 The truckroom was remodeled and finished on October 23, 1958.<\/p>\n
A new first aid truck was purchased on November 2, 1960, a GMC Chassis, Model V-3001, standard GMC V6, 165 HP at the cost of $14,150.\u00a0 The old Chevy first aid truck was sold to Winchester for $550.<\/p>\n
In 1963, firefighter received home receiver to alert them of a fire call.\u00a0 Fire Chief, Dave Gooch was authorized to use a siren on his personal car in 1965.\u00a0 Also that year, it was decided that any member who answered ten or more calls would receive a key to the hall.<\/p>\n
On Sunday, October 10, 1965, there was a dedication and Cornerstone Laying Ceremony at the new fire hall.\u00a0 President John Schneider received a US Flag from the US Congressman Richard McCarthy and a State of New York flag from Bertrand Hoak NY State Senator.<\/p>\n
The Ed Keller Award is a special award bestowed upon a member of the Fire Company who has provided outstanding service to the community and the company.\u00a0 A large plaque is proudly displayed in the fire hall with the recipient\u2019s names and hear they received the award.\u00a0 It is presented at the annual installation of officers usually held in January of each year.\u00a0 The winner is generally chosen by the past seven receivers of the award.\u00a0 The first Annual Award was presented to Ed Keller in 1968 for whom the award is named.\u00a0\u00a0 Ed was presented the plaque for his outstanding performance as a volunteer firefighter through the years and for his untiring service to the entire membership of Vigilant.<\/p>\n
The budget for 1970 grew to $34,518.\u00a0 Scott Air Paks were introduced into the company two paks were purchased at a cost of $191 each.\u00a0 Today, these paks are an essential part of a firefighter\u2019s gear.<\/p>\n
On February 27 1970, the Vigilant Ladies Auxiliary was organized and founded.\u00a0 Vigilant Truckroom officers wives; Harriet Wonderly, Cynthia O\u2019Hare, Elizabeth Nash, Alane Hoy, Lorraine Falkner and Ruth Mann met with Officers of the ECVFA on March 10 1970 to discuss setting up the Auxiliary.\u00a0 The first official meeting of the Vigilant Ladies Auxiliary was on April 14, 1970 and the first elected officers were\u00a0 President Cynthia O\u2019Hare; Vice President, Gladys Gick; Secretary Carole Donahue; Treasurer Marcella Herkey and Sergeant at Arms, Billie Jane Walkden. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0The Auxiliary has continued to this day to offer consistent assistance and support to the Vigilant Fire Company membership in anyway needed.<\/p>\n
In 1978, the award of Firefighter of the year and First Aider of the Year was established to be presented to an active firefighter who has demonstrated to the Chief that he or she is proficient in firematics or first aide and has performed their duties in an outstanding manner during the past year.\u00a0 The Chief receives input from the Assistant Chief\u2019s and line officers before a decision is made.\u00a0 This most prestigious honor is also presented at the annual installation dinner.<\/p>\n
Doctor James (DOC) Ehinger was appointed as Vigilant 9C to enable him to answer all calls.\u00a0 This motion was passed on September 24, 1979.<\/p>\n
In 1980, eight small Motorola pagers were purchased for firefighters to alert them of calls.\u00a0 Prior to this time, they were alerted to calls by use of a home plectron alert receiver, which could be heard several houses away when it rang.<\/p>\n
On June 24, 1991, a decision was made to purchase a 1991 Ford Excellence First Aid Ambulance from West Seneca Emergency Equipment at a cost of $79,412.\u00a0 At the same time, a motion passed that permitted the purchase of a 1991 Ford Explorer at a cost of $19,025 to be used by the Vigilant Fire Chief in responding to all calls.\u00a0 Gary Parucki was the first Chief to drive a dedicated chief\u2019s car provided by the fire District.<\/p>\n
A washer and dryer was purchased in 1992 to allow firefighters to clean their turn out gear after fighting a fire.\u00a0 The same year Vigilant purchased an automatic defibrillator for first aid calls, which allows the first aid, respond to increase from a basic life support unit to an advanced life support unit.<\/p>\n
June 20, 1994 a bit was accepted to purchase a pierce Mfg., a Sabre Pumper, capable of carrying 8 firefighters with a 1250 pump at the cost of $247,924.<\/p>\n
In 1995, a new Ford Explorer was purchased for use by the Chief when respond to calls.\u00a0 The old Explorer was handed down to the First Assistant Chief, for his rapid response.\u00a0 Later that year a new four-wheel drive pick-up vehicle was purchase to carry an inflatable boat and water rescue personnel.<\/p>\n
The Vigilant Fire Company, 100-year book created in 1996, has supplied this information.<\/p>\n
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2026\u00a0 WEST Seneca Fire District #6 Yearly Call Totals for Fire & EMS: \u00a0 EMS FIRE January February March April May June July August September October \u00a0 \u00a0 November December TOTAL \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-39","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n
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| \u00a0<\/td>\n | EMS<\/td>\n | FIRE<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| January<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| February<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| March<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| April<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| May<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| June<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| July<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| August<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| September<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| October<\/td>\n | \u00a0<\/td>\n | \u00a0<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| November<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
| December<\/td>\n | <\/td>\n | <\/td>\n<\/tr>\n |
\nTOTAL<\/h4>\n<\/td>\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0Grand Total\u00a0<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ custom_padding=”20px|45px||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.27.5″ text_text_color=”#FFFFFF” text_letter_spacing=”8px” text_line_height=”1.1em” header_text_align=”center” background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” background_layout=”dark” width=”92.5%” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n <\/h4>\n<\/h3>\n1071 – 2024<\/h3>\n993 -2022<\/h3>\n865 – 2020<\/h3>\n818 \u2013 2018<\/span><\/h3>\n784 – 2016<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/h3>\n |
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_accordion admin_label=”Past Fire Chief’s” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Past Fire Chief’s” open=”on” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
2026 – Hubbard Koglmeier<\/p>\n
2023 -2025 Barbra Mann<\/p>\n
2021 – 2022 John Gullo
2020 Mike Baj
2018 \u2013 2019 John Gullo
2014 \u2013 2017 Andy Oscypala
2010 – 2013 John Gullo
2006 – 2009 Gary Parucki
2002 – 2005 Dave Willman
2000 – 2001 Rick Dollard
1998 – 1999 Dave Kohler
1996 – 1997 Daniel Sikorski
1994 – 1995 John Gullo
1992 – 1993 James McCullough
1990 – 1991 Gary Parucki
1988 – 1989 James McCullough
1986 – 1987 William R Coughlin
1984 – 1985 Thomas Bausch
1982 – 1983 Howard Nickolai
1980 – 1981 Richard Sainsbury
1978 – 1979 Thomas Casey
1977 Willaim Walkden
1976 William Falkner
1975 Richard Jones
1972 – 1974 James Nash
1970 – 1971 Harold Wonderly
1967 – 1969 Carlton Gick
1966 David Gooch
1964 – 1965 Walter Hahn
1962 – 1963 Robert J Mann
1960 – 1961 Howard Kintzel
1952 – 1959 Roy Waston
1947 – 1951 Edward Huber
1940 – 1946 John Stock
1938 August Moll
1936 Edward Keller
1935 Joseph Herbein
1934 Edward Keller
1928 – 1929 Edward Nye
1927 Benjamin Ulrich
1920 Robert Pietcher
1917 – 1919 Herman Zarnikau
1916 Frederick Ehinger Jr.
1899 Henry Frey, Asst Chief
1898 – 1901 William Vogel Sr.
1897 Charles Ertel
1896 Henry Mayer
1894 Frederick Ehinger Sr.
1893 Frederick Tingler<\/p>\n
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[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_blurb _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” body_text_align=”justify” body_text_color=”#FFFFFF” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The History of the Vigilant Fire Company<\/p>\n
Vigilant Fire Company was organized on December 2, 1893 and became incorporated on February 7, 1896.\u00a0 Volunteer fire companies were very tightly knit social groups within their communities.\u00a0 Early companies were proud, exclusive, influential and very competitive.\u00a0 There still exists a “friendly” competitive spirit amount companies.<\/p>\n
A few of the old time members recall an incident in the 1930s when a fire call rang out.\u00a0 The call was for an assist in Gardenville and Vigilant was needed for mutual aid.\u00a0 Being first on the scene of fire was a proud moment for a company to beat another company to the scene that was in their area.<\/p>\n
Another incident was when the first motorized engine from Vigilant was driven so fast over the railroad tracks on Union that the engine fell out of the truck.<\/p>\n
The first audible alarm at the company was a large metal ring off of a railroad car from the Gardenville Yard of the New York Central Railroad.\u00a0 It is believed that Bennie Holstein obtained the wheel rim.\u00a0 When a fire was spotted, the first member to the hall would take a solid metal poll and smack the hanging hollow metal wheel rim.\u00a0 The sound was unique and loud and could be heard for long distances.\u00a0 Just like today, members would race to the hall, get dressed in their fire gear, hook to the horses and respond to the call.<\/p>\n
Vigilant was one of the first fire companies in the area to install an alarm system.\u00a0 It was maintenanind by John Holstein.\u00a0 Each alarm box was numbered.\u00a0 When an alarm was turned in, a bell in the steeple of the United Church of Christ would toll out the number of the alarm box.\u00a0 Each firefighter had a white card showing the box numbers and locations.<\/p>\n
To become a member, a candidate had to submit an application with a $5 fee and be interviewed by the \u201cVigilance Committee\u201d or what is now referred to as the investigating committee.<\/p>\n
As much as Vigilant was formed as a protection against fires, the company evolved into a center for social gatherings in the early years.\u00a0 The social environment of being a member still exists today, but in a much different manner.\u00a0 During the early years, a popular way of socializing and at the same time raising money was by holding card parties at the hall.\u00a0 PEDRO was the game most liked.\u00a0 The card and dance parties continued through the 1950s.<\/p>\n
The first motorized fire truck was obtained in 1920s The 1920 Buffalo Chemical Fire Truck was purchased for $6,500.\u00a0 This 1 \u00bd ton engine, model E12-120, received its chassis from Federal Motor Company in Detroit, MI.\u00a0 During the early fall 1920, the Vigilant member and Auxiliary held a week long fair at the hall to raise money for the new truck.\u00a0 They held dances, sold items, had pony rides and other entertainments.<\/p>\n
The West Seneca Town Board recognize the need to establish and organized system for managing the growing fire companies in town.\u00a0 In accordance with NYS Town Law, the board established six formal fire districts on September 4, 1935.\u00a0 Vigilant became known as West Seneca Fire District #6.\u00a0 A five-member commissioner board was appointed to a temporary term, which would expire on December 31, 1936.<\/p>\n
The new board quickly established an operating budget in 1936 in the amount of $1,784.\u00a0 These funds were set aside to buy rubber coats, boots, gas masks, wool mittens, pay for utilities, insurance and rental expenses.<\/p>\n
On December 8, 1935, the first commissioner election were held for the West Seneca Fire District #6.\u00a0 The results are as follows:<\/p>\n
Henry Moeller, 5 years term<\/p>\n
Henry Frey, 4-year term<\/p>\n
John Stellwegen, 3-year term<\/p>\n
Ed Keller, 2-year term<\/p>\n
Robert Pletscher, 1-year term<\/p>\n
Erwin Oeder, Treasurer, 3-year term<\/p>\n
In 1936, the town witnessed numerous floods and Vigilant responded to 38 alarms answered, 4 of which were false alarms and 14 assists to other companies.<\/p>\n
On April 3, 1938, there was a large fire on Seneca Street in Seneca Hose\u2019s District.\u00a0 One house was a total loss and two others received heavy damage.\u00a0 Over 950 feet of hose was laid by Vigilant, and the pumpers worked continuously for over two hours.<\/p>\n
In 1938, Vigilant participated in 27 parades in the area and won $95 in prize money.<\/p>\n
The following years, there was an increase in calls to 50 for the year.\u00a0 These included 28 assist class to other fire companies.<\/p>\n
On May 21, 1941, Vigilant took possession of 1941 Diamond T, No. 4103 500-gallon tank, Hercules CBJXD, 6 cly.\u00a0 This truck is still \u201cin service\u201d today, but appears for parades and shows only.\u00a0 It is highly regarded as Vigilant\u2019s antique fire truck.<\/p>\n
The 1940s were a somber time in the country due to World War II.\u00a0 A motion was passed January 7, 1942,\u00a0 based on the request from the Erie County Council of Civil Defense that they hall should be occupied at all times.\u00a0 This was to prevent enemy agents form destroying fire equipment, which should have been disastrous if this area were attacked.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Vigilant erected a lookout tower on the roof of the hall to observe for enemy planes.\u00a0\u00a0 After the war threat was over, Vigilant went back to normal operations.<\/p>\n
On May 19, 1948, a special election was held at the hall for authorizing the purchase of a 1948 Chevrolet Panel Truck to respond to emergency first aid calls.\u00a0 Vigilant was one of three Erie County fire companies that they had a squad for respond to rescues and first aid calls.\u00a0 A group of twenty members took a six-week first aid course, which qualifies them as first aid responders.\u00a0 The other fire companies at the time were The National Hose Company of the city of Tonawanda and the Main & Transit Fire Company of Williamsville.<\/p>\n
Ed Huber was chief at the time the rescue squad began, and looked to First Aid Captain Charlie Holstein and Fire Captain Carlton Gick to the the Squad.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 We will respond to first aid and rescue calls on a 24-hour basis.\u00a0 The only difference is of course the complexity of vehicles used and the training the members receive today.<\/p>\n
In the late 1950s, new red lights on the fire trucks, first aid standbys at the HS football games, purchase of the first smoke ejector, and authorization for the first mobile credit card for the chief to buy gas, electronic windshield wipers for the trucks.\u00a0 The budget was $10,082.50.\u00a0 The truckroom was remodeled and finished on October 23, 1958.<\/p>\n
A new first aid truck was purchased on November 2, 1960, a GMC Chassis, Model V-3001, standard GMC V6, 165 HP at the cost of $14,150.\u00a0 The old Chevy first aid truck was sold to Winchester for $550.<\/p>\n
In 1963, firefighter received home receiver to alert them of a fire call.\u00a0 Fire Chief, Dave Gooch was authorized to use a siren on his personal car in 1965.\u00a0 Also that year, it was decided that any member who answered ten or more calls would receive a key to the hall.<\/p>\n
On Sunday, October 10, 1965, there was a dedication and Cornerstone Laying Ceremony at the new fire hall.\u00a0 President John Schneider received a US Flag from the US Congressman Richard McCarthy and a State of New York flag from Bertrand Hoak NY State Senator.<\/p>\n
The Ed Keller Award is a special award bestowed upon a member of the Fire Company who has provided outstanding service to the community and the company.\u00a0 A large plaque is proudly displayed in the fire hall with the recipient\u2019s names and hear they received the award.\u00a0 It is presented at the annual installation of officers usually held in January of each year.\u00a0 The winner is generally chosen by the past seven receivers of the award.\u00a0 The first Annual Award was presented to Ed Keller in 1968 for whom the award is named.\u00a0\u00a0 Ed was presented the plaque for his outstanding performance as a volunteer firefighter through the years and for his untiring service to the entire membership of Vigilant.<\/p>\n
The budget for 1970 grew to $34,518.\u00a0 Scott Air Paks were introduced into the company two paks were purchased at a cost of $191 each.\u00a0 Today, these paks are an essential part of a firefighter\u2019s gear.<\/p>\n
On February 27 1970, the Vigilant Ladies Auxiliary was organized and founded.\u00a0 Vigilant Truckroom officers wives; Harriet Wonderly, Cynthia O\u2019Hare, Elizabeth Nash, Alane Hoy, Lorraine Falkner and Ruth Mann met with Officers of the ECVFA on March 10 1970 to discuss setting up the Auxiliary.\u00a0 The first official meeting of the Vigilant Ladies Auxiliary was on April 14, 1970 and the first elected officers were\u00a0 President Cynthia O\u2019Hare; Vice President, Gladys Gick; Secretary Carole Donahue; Treasurer Marcella Herkey and Sergeant at Arms, Billie Jane Walkden. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0The Auxiliary has continued to this day to offer consistent assistance and support to the Vigilant Fire Company membership in anyway needed.<\/p>\n
In 1978, the award of Firefighter of the year and First Aider of the Year was established to be presented to an active firefighter who has demonstrated to the Chief that he or she is proficient in firematics or first aide and has performed their duties in an outstanding manner during the past year.\u00a0 The Chief receives input from the Assistant Chief\u2019s and line officers before a decision is made.\u00a0 This most prestigious honor is also presented at the annual installation dinner.<\/p>\n
Doctor James (DOC) Ehinger was appointed as Vigilant 9C to enable him to answer all calls.\u00a0 This motion was passed on September 24, 1979.<\/p>\n
In 1980, eight small Motorola pagers were purchased for firefighters to alert them of calls.\u00a0 Prior to this time, they were alerted to calls by use of a home plectron alert receiver, which could be heard several houses away when it rang.<\/p>\n
On June 24, 1991, a decision was made to purchase a 1991 Ford Excellence First Aid Ambulance from West Seneca Emergency Equipment at a cost of $79,412.\u00a0 At the same time, a motion passed that permitted the purchase of a 1991 Ford Explorer at a cost of $19,025 to be used by the Vigilant Fire Chief in responding to all calls.\u00a0 Gary Parucki was the first Chief to drive a dedicated chief\u2019s car provided by the fire District.<\/p>\n
A washer and dryer was purchased in 1992 to allow firefighters to clean their turn out gear after fighting a fire.\u00a0 The same year Vigilant purchased an automatic defibrillator for first aid calls, which allows the first aid, respond to increase from a basic life support unit to an advanced life support unit.<\/p>\n
June 20, 1994 a bit was accepted to purchase a pierce Mfg., a Sabre Pumper, capable of carrying 8 firefighters with a 1250 pump at the cost of $247,924.<\/p>\n
In 1995, a new Ford Explorer was purchased for use by the Chief when respond to calls.\u00a0 The old Explorer was handed down to the First Assistant Chief, for his rapid response.\u00a0 Later that year a new four-wheel drive pick-up vehicle was purchase to carry an inflatable boat and water rescue personnel.<\/p>\n
The Vigilant Fire Company, 100-year book created in 1996, has supplied this information.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_accordion_item title=”Vigilant – West Seneca Fire District #6″ open=”on” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
2026\u00a0 WEST Seneca Fire District #6 Yearly Call Totals for Fire & EMS: \u00a0 EMS FIRE January February March April May June July August September October \u00a0 \u00a0 November December TOTAL \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-39","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\n