Fredonia Fire Chief John Lanphere, Laura Diehl from the Firemen’s Fund, and Lawley Tradition representatives Wally Gotowka during Thursday’s check presentation. (Photo by Jason Sample)

The Fredonia Fire Department’s fire safety outreach program will receive a major boost, thanks to a recent donation from the Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company. 
On May 28, officials with the fire department joined with village officials to accept a donation from the FFIC, in partnership with the Lawley Tradition insurance company in Fredonia.
The $8686 donation will be used to help renovate the department’s Fire Safety Trailer, which is used to educate children thoughout the area, not just the village of Fredonia.
The fire safety trailer is a modified house that can simulate fire, smoke and heat in a home in order to teach safety and fire escape techniques.  The trailer will receive new exterior siding as well as lettering, which will include essential fire safety messages.
Also, soft spots to the second floor’s foundation will be repaired.  In addition, funds will be used to refurbish a pickup truck that will haul the trailer to schools and various community events.
“Our department purchased the trailer several years ago and since that time, we’ve been able to provide educational services to thousands of children,” said Fredonia Fire Chief John Lanphere. “The renovations to the trailer and truck will allow us to continue this vital service, which ultimately makes the community safer.”                                
The grant package is part of a nationwide philanthropic program funded by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company.  The program is designed to provide needed equipment, training and educational tools to local fire departments.  Since 2004, Fireman’s Fund has issued grants to over 1,100 different departments totaling more than $21 million.  Independent insurance agencies/brokers that sell Fireman’s Fund products, like Lawley Tradition, are able to direct these grants to support fire service organizations.  
“Being apart of the Fredonia community, we’re proud to be able to give back in a meaningful way,” said Walter J. Gotowka, branch manager for Lawley Tradition.  “We realize the lessons taught in these fire safety trailers are invaluable and can help save lives.”

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