The Damascus fire Department (DFD) is a 100% volunteer department that takes pride in its ability to provide fire protection and full EMS services in a two county area (Mahoning and Columbiana). DFD provides fire protection for all of Goshen Township and the north part of Butler Township, responding to about 500 calls annually. EMS services are provided to all of Goshen and Butler township communities. Based on an agreement with North Georgetown Fire Department, EMS services are also provided to the east part of Knox Township (from Knox-School Rd east).
DFD operates out of two stations, one on St. Rt. 534 near the Columbiana-Mahoning county line and one on Stratton Rd. in Goshen Township. Between the two stations, the department is comprised of 33 members (23 firefighters, 6 paramedics, and 18 EMTs). The Damascus Fire Department was founded in 1944, with the first chief being D.T. Callahan. Since 1944, many things have changed, but the passion for serving the community has not. The bill for protective wear (turnout gear) for the fireman for all of the members in 1944 totaled $144.85. Today it cost $2,500 per member to outfit a firefighter in turnout gear to proper standards. EMS was introduced to the department in 1979, with lifetime member Jerry Allison being instrumental in its implementation.
Currently, DFD is lead by Chief John Bricker and Assistant Chief Derek Day. Chief Bricker will have thirty years of service to the department this coming year and Asst. Chief Day will hit twenty years this coming year as well. In addition to the chiefs, DFD also has one captain (Bill Hofmann) and two lieutenants (G.R. Vernon and Tom Mather).
DFD goes beyond fire and EMS, members are also active in community service. From passing out candy at the elementary school harvest party, to the traditional delivering of Santa Claus on a fire truck every Christmas for the past fifty years. The department is always looking for new members wishing to volunteer. Those members of the community interested in volunteering can contact Asst. Chief Derek Day at (330) 853-4418 or by email at dday@damascusfire.org.