BAVFC 2015 Activity History Reflects Service, Loss, and Milestones

The Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company’s 2015 activity history reflects a year marked by emergency response, mutual aid operations, department milestones, and the loss of several respected members of the fire and EMS community.

The year began with a significant loss on January 6, when Paramedic Eric Steciak died after being struck by a fire department utility vehicle. He was honored with a full fire department funeral, with members of the fire and EMS service joining together to recognize his service and sacrifice.

The company also mourned the passing of several longtime members during the year. Life Member Charles Head passed away on January 13. Life Member David Case passed away on February 1, and the department also recorded the passing of Life Member Dave Case, Jr. Life Member Edward H. Kelly, Jr. passed away on May 4. Each of these members represented years of dedication to the department and the community.

Operationally, BAVFC members responded to a wide range of incidents throughout 2015, including motor vehicle collisions, dwelling fires, building fires, animal rescues, and mutual aid assignments.

On January 21, crews responded to a personal injury rescue on Cool Spring Road near Beacon Drive after a single vehicle struck a telephone pole. Firefighters removed the vehicle’s door and roof to access the occupant. One patient was transported to a trauma center. M. John served as acting officer for the incident.

January 30 brought a series of fire responses, including a two-alarm building fire in Box 1011 and dwelling fires in Box 405 and Box 333. Crews continued to handle working incidents in February, including building fires in Box 317 and Box 309 and dwelling fires in Box 136, Box 410, and Box 405.

On February 17, BAVFC crews assisted at a mutual aid townhouse fire in the 3300 block of Midland Court, Box 403. The fire involved the basement of the townhouse. Engine 311 operated on the first floor and assisted with overhaul, checking for hidden fire and ensuring the fire was fully extinguished. Companies 4, 8, 3, and 12E also operated on the scene for approximately two hours. M. Collins served as acting officer. That same date also included an animal ice rescue in Box 321.

In May, crews responded to another serious motor vehicle collision at Route 23 and Grafton Shop Road. One occupant was trapped in the vehicle. Firefighters used hydraulic cutters and spreaders, then winched the vehicle from the guardrail to complete the extrication. Two patients were transported from the scene. B. Snyder served as acting officer.

Also in May, BAVFC responded to a building fire at the end of Franklin Street involving a shed and an old concrete mixer building. The fire reportedly began after leaves were burned in the area. Department records noted that the site had burned numerous times over the previous 50 years. Ry. Davis served as acting officer.

The company remained active in the community throughout the year while preparing for its 125th anniversary celebration. In February, the department requested historical materials for the anniversary and shared engine build progress reports. By July and August, BAVFC released anniversary event contact information, Kids For Hope details, registration forms, and celebration information.

The fall months included additional emergency activity, including a five-patient head-on motor vehicle collision on October 10. Crews also continued responding to incidents and department activities through November.

The 2015 activity history highlights the broad role of the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company: responding to emergencies, supporting neighboring jurisdictions, honoring members who served before them, and preserving the department’s long history of service to the community.

Residents are reminded to support their local volunteer fire company, follow department updates, and consider volunteering to help continue this important tradition of service.