In a joint training exercise with Wet Mountain Fire Protection District in Westcliffe on March 28th and 29th, the Oak Creek Grade Volunteer Fire Department was able to certify six new firefighters, and recertify one firefighter. After many hours of study online and in-person, the new firefighters were able to participate in live training on the finer points of controlling a fire.
Oak Creek Grade Fire Department is located approximately 18 miles south of Cañon City, on Oak Creek Grade, encompassing the area from the Stultz Trailhead to the Custer County line. Informally in existence for many years, the department called itself a Brigade where residents came together to assist in fighting fires as a community. In 2018, the department formally incorporated and is striving for professional status today.
Assistant Chief, Rick Madrigal, one of the newly certified members, proudly stated, “I’m really excited about the direction our
department is on and the success we have made.”
“We are grateful to Wet Mountain for allowing us to certify with them”, Rick added.
OCGVFD Board President, Bob Vanatta, has years of experience as a first responder in medical and fire, and was able to recertify for the department. “I have been with the department for about 1-1/2 years and have seen a great change in the attitude of the department. Rick’s team accepted the challenge and did a great job. Assistant Chief Rick Madrigal did an excellent job spearheading the effort”.
If you are in need of assistance in the Oak Creek Grade Fire Department community, call 911. For further information, check out our website, http://oakcreekgradefirebrigade.com/, or call Rick at
719-557-2925.