By Aiko Hill

Looking Back, Moving Forward

Our village is nearing its 50th birthday, but did you know that our fire department is only 21 years older? Back in March 1931, local residents recognized the need for fire protection and took action. At the time, there was only one vehicle - a wheeled rig, which had been purchased by the Chamber of Commerce. When they established the department, the Chamber installed Mr. T. J. Woodsworth as the first chief and George Ramsey as assistant chief. This was prudent since he owned the garage where the rig was stored.

The manpower, a force of 12, was strictly volunteer but included many notable businessmen of the day. When the fire alarm was sounded, these volunteers would run down to Ramsey’s and go into action. They had agreed that the first man to the station would serve as the director and main contact. Because they all preferred “action” to the desk job, there were evidently many methods employed to delay arrival so some other poor fellow would have to remain behind while the others responded to the call.

Over time, fire protection costs have become significant. Technology is more advanced, more maintenance is needed, and the job of the firefighter requires more preparation and training. Until just a few years ago, Los Altos firefighters trained in church and school parking lots. These factors led the city to consider consolidating with other nearby fire protection units.

While “Los Altos” is proudly emblazoned on our vehicles, by 1996, we had no firefighters on the city payroll. They are actually members of the Santa Clara County Central Fire Protection District. In addition to increased personal benefits for the firefighters, there are professional advantages to this change. Central Fire’s facilities and support are first rate and include dedicated classrooms, a drill ground area, and a training tower. This ensures that our crews are among the best in the region.

Today, the department’s staff of more than 30 operates out of three stations. The El Monte station on the Foothill College campus, in addition to being state of the art, has helped save taxpayers money since the city was able to obtain a $1 per year, 100-year lease from the college.

Our fire department has come a long way in 70 years and while fire season officially ended just two weeks ago, there will always be the need for our professional firefighting team.

Send comments and suggestions to aikohill@aol.com.