HISTORY

The Washington Emergency Squad was founded in 1936 by Vernon C. "Bab" Oakes. It was first started as a "first-aid group" made up of 6 firemen. "Babs" and his men raised money to buy needed equipment such as a stretcher, blankets, inhalator, leg splints, floodlights, and some medical and first-aid supplies.

On June 24, 1936, squad membership was increased to twelve (12) men. (*See picture below). No longer restricted to fire calls, this well manned and equipped rescue organization became known as the Washington Fire Department First Aid and Rescue Squad. It was available to the public for all types of emergency services.

By the end of 1936, the squad had answered five (5) calls.

Presently, the members of the Washington Emergency Squad run over 1300 calls a year.


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