Community
Before, during, and after.
The practical things: how to keep a fire from starting, how to help us when one does, and what to do the morning after.
Incident reports
To ask about a copy of an incident report, call the station at 570-653-1261 and leave a message, or email hvfr@outlook.com.
Burning
Open burning means burning garbage, leaves, grass, brush or debris outdoors. County burn bans are requested through the district forester and can last up to 30 days, and a statewide ban requires a Governor's proclamation. Check the DCNR burn-ban page and with Hegins Township before you light anything.
Programs
What we do for the district
After the fire
The morning after
Call your insurance company first; they will tell you what to do and will often arrange cleanup and a place to stay. Don't go back into the building until we have told you it's safe, and don't reconnect gas, electric or water until the utility or an electrician has checked them. The Red Cross can help with immediate needs. Gather what documents you can: insurance, identification, bank, medical.
You may notice we opened windows, cut holes in the roof, or opened walls. Ventilation lets heat and smoke out so firefighters can get in, and fire hides in walls and ceilings; we open them to make sure it's out. It looks like damage. It's how the rest of the house survived.
Common questions
Things people ask us
Do I need a permit to burn leaves or brush?
Pennsylvania's DCNR says open burning means burning garbage, leaves, grass, brush or debris outdoors, and that county or statewide burn bans may apply. Check the DCNR burn-ban page and with Hegins Township before you burn. If you are unsure, call the station.
How do I reach the company when it isn't an emergency?
Call 570-653-1261 and leave a message, email hvfr@outlook.com, message the company on Facebook, or speak to any member.
How do I join?
See the Join page. Volunteers must be at least 18 and juniors at least 14, and applicants live in the Tri-Valley School District.
What should I do when an emergency vehicle approaches?
Pull to the right and stop, and let it pass.
Follow us
The department on Facebook
News, photos and notices from the department.