By: Melissa A. Kay

On January 26th, Township Mayors joined the all-volunteer Tri-Boro First Aid Squad for a momentous milestone celebration during the 2019 Installation Dinner. What started 80 years ago is still going strong, as the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad proudly serves the Bloomingdale community and beyond, including Butler and Kinnelon.

Along with the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad and Mayors, others in attendance to applaud these individuals included members of the local police force and area firefighters as well as Officers of the New Jersey First Aid Council, 17th District and members of squads from the surrounding neighborhoods. It was a meeting of like-minded, community-focused men and women who appreciate and rely on the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad’s exemplary service and dedication, something that began back in September 1939.

Tri-Boro First Aid Squad has come a long way since its start. But over time, what was originally called the Butler First Aid Squad has flourished, having responded to more than 100,000 calls since inception. Today, there are close to 50 dedicated members who make up the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad who devote their time, efforts, and energy towards bettering the community, call by call, case by case, 24/7. Area residents are served by three state-of-the-art ambulances and a Captain’s rig.

“We’re pleased to announce Columbia Bank has just approved a grant to the Squad for a Lucas Chest Compression System which performs long term uninterrupted CPR and frees up our members to concentrate on other vital lifesaving tasks,” notes Buzz Warren, Tri-Boro First Aid Squad, Information Officer. A priceless gift that will go the extra mile.

With the guidance and inspiration of today’s members as well as those who have served and saved lives over the rich 80-year history of the Tri-Boro First Aid Squad, community members would give their friends, family, and neighbors a great gift by joining as well.

“Residents of three towns who hold current EMT cards can join for a short period of time as probationary members and then become full members, or interested individuals can attend a yearly First Responder Course which is taught by our own teachers. Upon graduating that course, they become probationary members but must take an EMT course to become full members.” Warren said.

Being a member is not only personally rewarding, but potentially lifesaving for others in despair. Tri-Boro First Aid Squad is proud to congratulate the top three members responding to the most calls. Dianne Boylan responded to an impressive 320 calls, Alysha Futcher to 264, and Jason Hammaker to 252. 2018 saw five lives saved thanks to CPR, with three saves by Alysha Futcher and Jason Hammaker, 2 saves by Michael Johnston, and one save by Lenny Hasson and Sarah Cochran.

“A heartfelt thanks to these exceptional individuals who have impacted lives significantly.” Warren said.

80 years of stellar service is an amazing achievement to applaud. The community salutes these brave and selfless men and women for their endless efforts and commitment to excellence.