By 1808Delaware
It’s a typical evening in Powell, the kind that cloaks neighborhoods in golden light and calm routines. But for the Liberty Township Fire Department, every moment is a heartbeat away from a call. As Fire Chief James Reardon presented to the Powell City Council recently, the department’s second quarter of 2025 was another testament to their efficiency, readiness, and commitment to public safety.
Response Times Reflect High Readiness
Between April and June, the department maintained an average overall response time of 5:22. The average turnout time—measuring how fast personnel are en route after the call—stood at 1:12 for fire calls and an even brisker 1:04 for emergency medical service (EMS) incidents. These figures underscore the department’s tight coordination and ongoing focus on rapid mobilization.
Fires and Prevention: Keeping Loss Low
While the township recorded 26 fire-related incidents year-to-date, including 12 structure fires and 9 outdoor or miscellaneous fires, the community saw a significant mitigation in damage. Property losses amounted to $57,150—just 4% of the total estimated value at risk. Thanks to swift action and tactical firefighting, property worth over $1.29 million was saved.
Chief Reardon credited this success not only to on-scene crews but also to proactive efforts from the Fire Prevention Bureau. With 139 inspections conducted across assembly spaces, businesses, residential properties, and schools, the department found and addressed 143 safety violations—an ongoing effort to extinguish threats before they spark.
Emergency Medical Services Dominate Call Volume
Of the 1,800 total calls in the second quarter, 61% were for EMS and rescue operations—by far the largest category. Fires accounted for 2%, while a variety of other calls made up the remaining 37%. The high percentage of EMS responses reflects national trends and reinforces the department’s dual role as both fire suppression and critical care responders.
Neighborhoods and Businesses Alike
Emergency calls were spread across multiple occupancy types. Residential areas generated the highest demand, but commercial properties, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and assembly spaces also required attention. The department responded to incidents in Powell proper and across mutual aid agreements in surrounding areas, with the “1st due” zone receiving the majority of calls.
Monthly activity remained relatively steady, with April, May, and June each logging over 570 incidents. Chief Reardon noted this consistency as a sign of predictable demand patterns—vital for resource planning and shift scheduling.
Building Trust Since 1947
As Liberty Township Fire Department moves through its 78th year, its legacy of service remains deeply interwoven with the community it protects. Chief Reardon’s report was more than numbers; it was a snapshot of reliability, professionalism, and the daily courage behind the red doors.
From house calls to highway rescues, fire inspections to public education, the department continues to shape its future while honoring its roots.
And as the siren sounds once again—perhaps at 8:00 PM on a quiet Tuesday—residents can rest assured: Liberty Township’s finest are already on the move.
