MAYNARD — Chief Angela Lawless and the Maynard Fire Department are pleased to share this week’s station feature: the fireman’s pole.
The Maynard Fire station is now equipped with a historical fire pole. The pole is fully functional and was put in the station to symbolize the historical element of a fire pole.
The fire pole was invented in Chicago in 1878 and the first brass pole was made in Boston in 1880. The pole is used to travel between floors of the building faster than taking the stairs.
Many stations no longer have or use a fire pole. However, Maynard Fire expressed their interest in having a fire pole at the new station during the design process to demonstrate respect for the firefighters who came before them and the fire service’s rich history. The Maynard Fire Department is honored to represent those who came before them.
The pole is equipped with padding at the bottom and a gate at the top to ensure the safety of all members who choose to use it.
This feature is not mandatory for Maynard Fire members to use, and it is not open for public use.
“This unique feature symbolizes the history behind the fire pole and is completely functional for our members to use in order to respond to calls,” said Chief Lawless. “While it is not for for public use, residents can come see it at our station and we can show them how it works!”
To schedule a tour of the station, please contact the Maynard Fire Department at 978-897-1014.
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