The Howlett Hill Fire Department responds to approximately 500 alarms annually, serving as the first line of defense for our community since 1948. Despite declining recruitment trends nationwide, our dedicated team continues to answer calls ranging from medical emergencies to structure fires with unwavering commitment.
Located in central New York, the Howlett Hill Fire Department serves both residential and rural communities in the Northwest parts of the Town of Onondaga. Our firefighters protect Howlett Hill and surrounding areas in Syracuse, New York, benefiting from hydrant-delivered water and good pressure due to the hilly terrain. While many might not realize it, our department offers various volunteer opportunities, including Active Membership for frontline responders, Restricted Membership for those aged 16-18, and Associate Membership for individuals over 21 who want to support our mission.
Throughout this article, we'll take you behind the scenes of our operations, introduce you to the people who make our department work, and show you what it means to be part of the team protecting our community day and night.
Meet the Howlett Hill Fire Department
Our roots at Howlett Hill Fire Department run deep in the community. Originally established in 1948, HHFD has grown from humble beginnings to become an essential safety resource for residents throughout the northwestern portion of Onondaga Township. For over seven decades, we've evolved our capabilities and equipment to meet the changing needs of our community.
History and founding of HHFD
The Howlett Hill Fire Department was born out of necessity in 1948 when local residents recognized the need for dedicated fire protection services in their growing community. Throughout our 75+ year history, we've maintained our commitment to community service above all else. As we've grown, we've expanded our capabilities beyond basic fire suppression to include emergency medical response, vehicle accident assistance, and various other community services.
Where we serve: Howlett Hill and surrounding areas
HHFD proudly serves both residential neighborhoods and rural areas in the Northwest section of the Town of Onondaga in central New York. Our primary response area encompasses the Howlett Hill region of Syracuse, NY, but our commitment extends beyond these boundaries when mutual aid is requested. In fact, our newer pumper has responded to seven working structure fires—five in our district and two as mutual aid to neighboring communities.
What makes HHFD unique
One notable advantage of our service area is the excellent water pressure we enjoy thanks to the hilly terrain surrounding our district. This geographical feature enhances our firefighting capabilities and allows us to effectively manage hydrant-delivered water throughout most of our coverage area.
Furthermore, we aren't limited to fire suppression alone. Our team responds to a diverse mix of emergencies, handling medical calls, motor vehicle collisions, structure fires, and community service requests. This versatility means our roughly 500 annual alarms represent a wide range of emergency situations where we can make a difference.
Above all, what truly sets HHFD apart is our unwavering dedication to training and preparedness. Every Monday evening at 7:00 PM, our members gather at the station for regular drills. We consider this training essential not only for maintaining our operational readiness but also for ensuring everyone returns home safely after each call.
What Our Firefighters Do Every Day
Life at Howlett Hill Fire Department revolves around readiness and service. Every day, our team prepares for the unexpected, knowing that each alarm could mean the difference between life and death for someone in our community.
Responding to emergencies
At the heart of our mission is emergency response. Annually, we answer approximately 500 alarms, handling everything from structure fires to motor vehicle collisions. Each call requires immediate action and expertise. Our firefighters must remain vigilant throughout their shifts because a fire truck cannot respond effectively if it's low on fuel, and equipment failure could have devastating consequences.
The mix of emergencies we handle includes:
- Structure fires within our district and mutual aid to neighboring communities
- Motor vehicle collisions requiring extrication or medical assistance
- Service calls from district residents
- Medical emergencies requiring rapid intervention
Medical and rescue operations
Beyond firefighting, we provide crucial medical services. Each piece of apparatus in our department carries an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), enabling us to respond effectively to cardiac emergencies. Our members train extensively in emergency medical procedures, ensuring they're prepared to stabilize patients until advanced medical help arrives.
During the 12 to 24 hours on duty, our personnel run calls, train rigorously, and maintain equipment. Every activity, however small, contributes to our emergency readiness. A firefighter's entire day involves, in one way or another, preparing for the next emergency.
Community service and outreach
Additionally, we work hard to make a positive impact beyond emergency situations. Our department provides various non-emergency services to residents throughout the Howlett Hill area. Whether it's a safety inspection, educational program, or assistance during non-emergency situations, we're committed to serving our community.
We protect the lives and property of Howlett Hill and surrounding areas in Syracuse, New York by remaining accessible 24/7. For emergencies, residents call 911, but our non-emergency line (315-673-1817) remains open for services and information. Our accessibility extends to our facility as well, which is fully wheelchair accessible.
Throughout everything we do, our goal remains consistent: to be there whenever someone needs us and to help make difficult situations better.
Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities
The volunteer structure at Howlett Hill Fire Department offers multiple pathways for community service, each tailored to different skills, interests, and age groups. Our department thrives on the dedication of individuals who step forward to protect their neighbors.
Active Members: Frontline responders
Active Members form the backbone of Howlett Hill Fire Department, fulfilling the complete duties of volunteer firefighters. These dedicated individuals respond to fires, vehicle rescues, and medical emergencies throughout our service area. Moreover, they participate in training drills, attend department business meetings, and represent HHFD at community parades. To maintain good standing, members must attend a minimum number of weekly drills and monthly meetings throughout the year.
Restricted Access Members (RAMs)
For younger community members eager to serve, our RAM program provides a pathway into firefighting. These members, aged 16-18, follow the same requirements as Active Members but operate under additional safety protocols. RAMs are restricted from entering dangerous situations as determined by the Chief. This program has been successfully preparing future firefighters since at least 2019.
Associate Members: Support without fire duty
Residents over 21 seeking to contribute without engaging in firefighting can join as Associate Members. Specifically, these members attend monthly meetings and complete annual OSHA training while supporting non-firematic aspects of department operations. Their contributions remain vital to our overall mission.
Training and drills
Training serves as the cornerstone of firefighter safety and effectiveness. Consequently, all members participate in regular drills covering various skills, from vehicle stabilization to fire suppression techniques. These sessions enable our team to practice with sophisticated equipment like Res-Q-Jack stabilization systems used during vehicle rescues.
Meetings and ongoing education
Besides operational training, HHFD maintains a strong focus on administrative functions through regular meetings. These gatherings ensure everyone understands department policies and stays informed about operational changes. Additionally, continuing education helps members advance their skills through courses in emergency medical procedures, fire science, and management.
Why People Join HHFD
Joining the Howlett Hill Fire Department offers rewards that extend far beyond simply responding to emergencies. Behind each volunteer's decision to serve lies personal motivations that create our unified team.
Sense of purpose and community
Volunteers at HHFD frequently cite the opportunity to give back as their primary motivation. Essentially, becoming part of our department connects individuals directly to the community they serve, creating a profound sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. This connection transforms ordinary citizens into local heroes who make tangible differences in neighbors' lives.
The Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP) represents another meaningful benefit, as it was recently extended from 40 to 50 years of service with overwhelming community support (97.3% approval margin). This program allows dedicated members to earn funds placed in an annuity for their retirement years, acknowledging their long-term commitment without increasing costs to taxpayers.
Teamwork and camaraderie
The bonds formed at Howlett Hill Fire Department often become family-like connections. Members consistently describe the relationships built here as one of the most rewarding aspects of service. As one member noted, "You become like family when you work with these other people who feel as passionate as you do".
This camaraderie proves particularly important given nationwide recruitment challenges for volunteer departments. The team spirit created through shared experiences—from intense emergency responses to regular training sessions—fosters connections that extend beyond the firehouse.
Personal growth and skill development
Joining HHFD offers exceptional opportunities for personal development through:
- Acquiring New York State Fire and EMS certifications
- Hands-on training with specialized rescue equipment
- Leadership experience in high-pressure situations
- Transferable skills valuable in professional settings
Importantly, these skills extend into various aspects of members' lives, enhancing both personal and professional development. The department provides all necessary training at no cost to individuals, making skill acquisition accessible regardless of prior experience.
For many members, HHFD represents both a chance to protect their community and a pathway to personal growth through meaningful service.
Last Word
Throughout our 75+ years of service, Howlett Hill Fire Department has remained steadfast in our commitment to protect and serve our community. As we've shown, our team responds to approximately 500 alarms each year, handling everything from structure fires to medical emergencies with professionalism and care. Additionally, we offer multiple pathways for community members to join our ranks—whether as Active Members on the frontlines, Restricted Access Members learning the ropes, or Associate Members providing crucial support.
What makes HHFD truly special, however, goes beyond our emergency response capabilities. Our department functions as a family, united by shared purpose and dedication to serving others. Consequently, many members describe the camaraderie and sense of belonging as among the most rewarding aspects of their service. This bond strengthens our effectiveness during emergencies and enriches the lives of everyone involved.
Training certainly remains at the heart of everything we do. Every Monday evening, members gather to sharpen their skills and ensure operational readiness. This commitment to preparedness ensures both our safety and the quality of service we provide to Howlett Hill and surrounding areas.
For those considering joining our ranks, HHFD offers more than just the opportunity to serve—we provide a chance to develop valuable skills, form lasting relationships, and make a tangible difference in your community. Above all, we offer the profound satisfaction that comes from helping others during their most vulnerable moments.
Our doors remain open to anyone seeking to contribute, regardless of previous experience. After all, every member of our team started somewhere, driven by the simple desire to help. Together, we'll continue protecting Howlett Hill and surrounding areas for generations to come, just as we have since 1948.
FAQs
Q1. What services does the Howlett Hill Fire Department provide? The Howlett Hill Fire Department responds to various emergencies, including structure fires, medical emergencies, motor vehicle collisions, and community service requests. They also offer non-emergency services such as safety inspections and educational programs.
Q2. How can I join the Howlett Hill Fire Department? There are multiple ways to join HHFD. You can become an Active Member (frontline responder), a Restricted Access Member (for ages 16-18), or an Associate Member (support role for those over 21). Each role has specific requirements and responsibilities.
Q3. How often does the Howlett Hill Fire Department train? HHFD conducts regular training drills every Monday evening at 7:00 PM. These sessions cover various skills, from vehicle stabilization to fire suppression techniques, ensuring operational readiness and safety.
Q4. What area does the Howlett Hill Fire Department serve? The department primarily serves the Northwest parts of the Town of Onondaga, including Howlett Hill and surrounding areas in Syracuse, New York. They also provide mutual aid to neighboring communities when requested.
Q5. What benefits do volunteers receive at Howlett Hill Fire Department? Volunteers at HHFD gain a sense of purpose, develop strong camaraderie with fellow members, and acquire valuable skills. They also have access to New York State Fire and EMS certifications and can participate in the Length of Service Award Program, which provides retirement benefits for long-term service.
