Jefferson County Fire & Emergency Manangement

Jefferson County Home of the Thousand Islands & U.S. Army 10
th
Mountain Division

Jefferson County Fire and Emergency Management
753 Waterman Dr. Watertown, NY 13601

Office 315-786-2654
FAX 315-785-3301
Dispatch 315-786-2601

Joseph D. Plummer Frederick D. Lampman
Director Deputy Director
[email protected] [email protected]







Press Release
August 15, 2014

On Wednesday, August 13, 2014 at 11:49 pm, fire broke out in a building containing the Wellesley
Island Fire Department in Jefferson County. The fire house is part of a large building with a
common roof system. The fire started in another section of the building but by the time firefighters
arrived, efforts to remove any vehicles or equipment was not possible. The department lost 2
engines, tanker, ambulance and a pickup truck (light rescue) and all equipment
associated. Fortunately there were no serious injuries or fatalities. A couple of firefighter were
treated for smoke inhalation which were treated and released.
I have been in constant contact with Chief Bob Markert obviously since the beginning. Wellesley
Island is a very unique department. They are very small as the majority of the population there is
seasonal. The department actually has a second station on the other end of the island. They still
have in service an engine, tanker and brush truck. A neighboring department has provided a
second engine and a neighboring EMS agency has provided a back up ambulance for them to
use. The department is back in service due to some great friendships!!!
The purpose of this letter is to just thank everyone for the great out pouring of support. Events
such as this show the true meaning of Brotherhood! Myself and the Chief have both received
numerous phone calls offering any type of assistance possible. Currently, the department has no
unmeant needs. They are equipped and ready for the next call when that comes. The department is
insured and working with adjusters and going through the process.

Again, on behalf of myself and Chief Bob Markert, we would like to thank everyone for all of their
support and prayers. Wellesley Island fire has and will continue to provide Fire and EMS to the
entire residents of Wellesley Island.

Joseph D. Plummer
Director