SERVING AKRON BOROUGH, EPHRATA TOWNSHIP AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

Christmas tree

Fireplace safety and maintenance


While a wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and comfort to a home during the colder months, safety must be top of mind. Here are some tips on how to operate and maintain a fireplace.


  • The National Fire Protection Association recommends chimneys be swept at least once a year, at the beginning of winter, to remove soot and debris by a chimney specialist.
  • Be sure the flue is open before lighting your fire to help ensure the fireplace will vent properly. Do not close your damper until you are sure the fire is out.
  • Never use flammable liquids to start a fire. They can produce toxic chemicals that can enter your living space.
  • Metal mesh screens should remain closed whenever your fireplace is in use to help keep embers in the fireplace.
  • Only use dry wood in your fireplace. Wet wood can increase creosote buildup, which can lead to chimney fires.
  • Never leave a fire in a fireplace unattended. Before leaving the house or going to bed, you should make certain to fully extinguish the fire.
  • Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them — ashes can take several days to cool completely. Never empty ashes directly into a trash can. Instead, place ashes in a covered metal container located at least 10 feet away from your home and any other building.


SERVING ARKON BOROUGH, EPHRATA TOWNSHIP AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES


SERVING AKRON BOROUGH, EPHRATA TOWNSHIP AND SURROUNDING AREA

A row Akron firefighters' uniforms and helmets hanging on a rack.

Akron Volunteer Fire Company – Station 12 is an all volunteer fire company located in the heart of Lancaster County Pennsylvania. We serve as the first due fire company for Akron Borough, portions of Ephrata Township and provide mutual aid to surrounding communities. We strive to provide the best service possible to the residents of our community and beyond. Our members have trained in all aspects of firefighting and many hold additional training and certification in Vehicle Rescue, Hazardous Material Operations, CPR, Emergency First Aid and other specialized rescue services. We respond to an average of 100 emergency calls per year, and currently have approximately 45 active members.

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Fireplace safety and maintenance



While a wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and comfort to a home during the colder months, safety must be top of mind. Here are some tips on how to operate and maintain a fireplace.


  • The National Fire Protection Association recommends chimneys be swept at least once a year, at the beginning of winter, to remove soot and debris by a chimney specialist.
  • Be sure the flue is open before lighting your fire to help ensure the fireplace will vent properly. Do not close your damper until you are sure the fire is out.
  • Never use flammable liquids to start a fire. They can produce toxic chemicals that can enter your living space.
  • Metal mesh screens should remain closed whenever your fireplace is in use to help keep embers in the fireplace.
  • Only use dry wood in your fireplace. Wet wood can increase creosote buildup, which can lead to chimney fires.
  • Never leave a fire in a fireplace unattended. Before leaving the house or going to bed, you should make certain to fully extinguish the fire.
  • Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them — ashes can take several days to cool completely. Never empty ashes directly into a trash can. Instead, place ashes in a covered metal container located at least 10 feet away from your home and any other building.


EVENTS

Akron Volunteer Fire Company – Station 12 serves the local community with events that fund the volunteer firehouse. From All-you-can-eat breakfast, bingo and barbeques to raffles and craft shows, there are many different ways to support your local fire house. Check the Events page for upcoming fundraisers and community events.

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OUR HISTORY

The first regular meeting of The Volunteer Fire Company of Akron, Pennsylvania was held at the west Akron schoolhouse (currently area of Akron Lutheran Church) on February 7, 1893. The order of business was to authorize the spending of $892.00 for the purchase of a hand pumper.

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Committed, caring, and courageous volunteer firefighters at Akron Volunteer Fire Company – Station 12 are your friends, family, and neighbors who dedicated their time and lives to protecting and serving our part of Lancaster County. Our main source of support comes from our annual fund drive campaign. 


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