BEACON (15 January 2009) - Another year completed with yet another increase in the number of alarms responded to by the department. The year 2008 closed out with just under 1,800 incidents, a dramatic growth from the 400 calls of 20 years ago. The spectrum of calls has also become wider and the volunteer manpower is ever dwindling. We responded to over 30 hazardous material incidents including a suspected biologic. There were 20 rescue and technical rescue calls along with another 78 motor vehicle accidents. Being ever community orientated, we assisted the citizens of Beacon in 270 non-fire emergencies in addition to the regular life threatening EMS response of 975. Our front line apparatus responded in force to 60 actual fires including 7 car fires and 11 building fires as well as another 229 possible fires. The career staff of Local 3490 continues to provide 24 hour protection and service to the City.