After years of waiting, the Lakeview Fire Department finally brought in their latest firetruck, a quantum pumper rescue, on Oct. 16. (VILLAGE OF LAKEVIEW PHOTO)
In case you haven’t noticed, a lot has been going on at the Lakeview Fire Department over the last month. From new equipment to specially designed gloves to a new captain, the department is working to make the community safer.
Monday, Oct. 5, Terry Kuhlman took his place as the new captain of the department. According to the announcement, “With an incredible 52 years of firefighting experience, Terry brings a lifetime of dedication, knowledge and service to his new position.”
Kuhlman served for 25 years with the Ottawa Fire Department, eventually becoming assistant chief there. He then joined the Lakeview team in 2014, and, in 2024, joined the Roundhead Fire Department. He’s a member and former president of the Northwest Ohio Volunteer Firefighters Association as well.
“Terry is known for his big heart and willingness to help anyone in need,” the announcement continued. “He truly loves being a firefighter and serving his community.”
Elaine Fagan-Moore, Lakeview mayor, swears in Terry Kuhlman, the new captain of the Lakeview Fire Department on Oct. 5. Also pictured is Lakeview Fire Chief Joe Ferryman. (VILLAGE OF LAKEVIEW PHOTO)
But that’s not the last of the changes at the fire department. Several new upgrades have given them the equipment they need to successfully protect the Lakeview community, starting with a quantum pumper rescue truck.
The department purchased this used firetruck from the Baldwin Borough Fire Rescue Department in Pennsylvania and it finally arrived on Oct. 16.
In addition, they announced the purchase of a new E-Force 3 combi tool, a multi-functional rescue and extrication device that combines a spreader, cutter and ran into one unit. This allows firefighters to work more efficiently and extricate crash victims faster in emergencies. It’s especially needed with newer vehicles that are harder to cut into.
Generous donations from the community members and businesses, including Dennis Harford, Indian Lake Eagles and Mann Farms, made that purchase possible. The department also obtained a new cascade air-filling system thanks to grant funding. This will complement the new air packs they bought earlier this year, also through a grant.
Josh Oakley, Lakeview assistant fire chief, tries on one of four new specially-made gloves. The customized gloves were created by Laura Huff with FireCraft Safety Products out of Columbus. (VILLAGE OF LAKEVIEW PHOTO)
One new item that’s a little more personal and unique, is the creation of customized gloves for Assistant Chief Josh Oakley, who suffered a hand injury years ago that made normal gloves difficult. Laura Huff, a staff member with a company called FireCraft, learned about the need through Elaine Fagan-Moore, Lakeview mayor.
As a result, Oakley now has several gloves that give him the confidence to work more efficiently now that he doesn’t have to worry about a glove shifting or falling off.
“Anytime we have an opportunity to update our equipment it’s just better for our community,” Fagan-Moore stated. “New tools and new technology go a long way.”
