[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 142 (Tuesday, September 9, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1738]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE SAGINAW FIRE DEPARTMENT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 9, 2008

  Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute the Saginaw 
Michigan Fire Department. The Department celebrated 150 years of 
protecting the public at a celebration on September 6th in Saginaw.
  The idea for a fire department in Saginaw was born in 1854 as the 
result of a tragic fire that year. Business leaders in the South and 
East Villages of Saginaw held initial organization meetings in 1857 and 
the fire department became operational in 1858. Originally a volunteer 
department with one Engine House, the first career fire fighters were 
employed full-time in the 1880s.
  As the City of Saginaw grew so did the fire department. There are now 
four fire stations and the department is a member of the Regional 
Response Team Network created to respond to hazardous materials 
incidents. The Saginaw Fire Department employs technology in fighting 
fires through the use of ISI Breathing Air System, thermal imaging 
equipment, and onboard computerization in command vehicles. They also 
utilize a six-story fire-training tower.
  The Saginaw Fire Department is active in fire prevention. They 
conduct fire safety education, maintain an Insurance Services Office 
insurance classification 3, enforce Fire Codes, and operate a Fire 
Safety House. The Saginaw Fire Department is committed to providing the 
highest level of service to the citizens of Saginaw.
  Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in 
congratulating Chief E. Dean Holland and the men and women of the 
Saginaw Fire Department for 150 years of protecting and safeguarding 
the public. Their courage and dedication are an inspiration to the 
community and may they continue their diligent service in safety for 
many, many years to come.

                          ____________________