What's Happening in Northvale, NJ…

The Northvale Fire Department (NFD) got a new engine recently, and residents joined their firefighters in a “wetdown” to celebrate the new arrival.

The event was held at the borough's firehouse at the end of August, and allowed firefighters to celebrate the arrival of the new engine, and at the same time, invite community residents to join in the fun.

A wetdown is just what it sounds like—firefighters sprayed the new engine with water in a ritual that is common among fire departments across the country. Sirens went off and fire hoses went into action as the new engine was driven into the parking lot of the fire station. The Northvale Fire Association’s president, Tony Ubl, said the wetdown gave Northvale residents a chance to see how their tax dollars are spent, as well as letting the community say thank you to firefighters for protecting them.

Firefighters from other departments in the area came to lend their support, as did a number of retired firemen. Northvale's mayor, Ed Piehler, said it was a team effort to get a new engine for the community, involving an expert on fire engines, members of the NFD, and the borough council.

Firefighters might consider working with a flyer printing company on a mailer for residents, showing them the new engine and inviting them to see the station in person.