Seffner-North Brandon Fire Station Hosts Community Open House

Volunteers at the Seffner-North Brandon Volunteer Fire Rescue station  met over the weekend with community members to make friends out of neighbors they might not otherwise meet under pleasant circumstances.

“We wanted to do something for the community to enjoy,” said Patrick Ritson, the station's assistant fire chief, who has been a volunteer there for 11 years. “When we meet people it’s not always under the best circumstances. When we have the open house people can meet us when it’s not all about chaos.”

Station volunteers hosted on Sept. 24 an open house featuring a bounce house, children’s games, vehicle rescue demonstrations, station tours and the opportunity to buy a refreshments.

At 3096 South Kingsway Road, 8,000 square-feet facility is staffed solely by 35 volunteers who love what they do.

Ritson meets people not only while volunteering at the Seffner-North Brandon station but also during his employment as a firefighter with Polk County Fire and Rescue.

Ritson works full-time as a firefighter and then volunteers, just as his colleagues do at the station, working a 24-hour shift on weekends and one 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. shift during the week.

Ritson said that dedication is typical of most of the fire volunteers.

“It’s a cultural thing, it’s something we enjoy and we are extra happy to do it,” Ritson said.

That’s a story echoed by Nate Storey.

The Riverview paramedic remembers always wanting to be a firefighter since he was a child.

“I love the job,” said Storey, who has volunteered at the station for five years. “I’ve just always wanted to do it. There’s no other feeling like it.”

Storey said he enjoys the work because it’s an opportunity for him to give back to the community.

“I like the open house because it’s a chance for people to see us without having to dial 911,” Storey said. “We’re not in a rush here today and people can see we’re just average people here to help you out.”

Pam Cunningham was glad she was able to stop by the event. The Seffner resident was passing by when the noticed the jovial atmosphere at the station.

Cunningham made a visit to the station so her three-year-old grandson Maddox could get an inside look at the station; as well participate in some of the games.

While Cunningham said she didn’t know the station was operated by volunteers, she was aware of the service they provide to the community on a daily basis and applauded the firefighters for a job well done.

Seffner resident Brenda Cannon was also impressed with her visit to the station, she watched the firefighters as they dissected a car as if a person trapped inside needed to be removed.

Sarah Maples knew she’d have a hard time removing her son from the station. Maple’s four-year-old son has dreams of becoming a firefighter and was doing his best to see and do everything during the event.

“I think the firefighters do an excellent job,” Maples said. “It takes a special person to do what they do.”

Although Christine Yule initially started out with intentions to become a doctor, she is thrilled with her profession as a paramedic. She has been a volunteer firefighter for a year and a half and at the station for one month.

Yule cited the adrenalin rush and helping people as fueling her desire to be a volunteer firefighter. She was excited to be able to meet the residents and get a feel for the community.

“It’s nice that people can come into our house and see what we do,” Yule said. “People aren’t sick or hurt and the atmosphere is good. It’s just so nice for people to come out and see us and support us