Fire department’s chili cook-off to promote reserve program

Firefighters are used to reducing heat, but Belgium’s are about to concoct some, albeit of a different variety.

The fire department is holding a chili cook-off on Tuesday, March 5, in hopes of garnering interest in its new reserve unit.

The department created the reserve program last fall for people who want to help  with fires but don’t have the time to go through the state-required 120 hours of training to become a firefighter.

While they would respond to fire calls, reserve members would not put out fires or be put in harm’s way, Fire Chief Dan Birenbaum said.

Duties would include assisting with crowd and traffic control and lighting, salvage and overhaul of equipment and firehouse maintenance.

Reserve members may also respond to car accidents and weather alerts such as tornado warnings. They would receive a coat, pants, helmet, gloves, boots, safety vest, a pager and would be covered under the department’s insurance plan.

Members must be 18, have a valid driver’s license, be able to lift 50 pounds and attend practices and meetings.

Birenbaum said he hopes the reserve unit serves as a stepping stone for people to become firefighters.

The cook-off runs from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. and is free to the public. People will judge chili made by firefighters and emergency medical service technicians.

Ten members or their spouses are bringing chili, event organizer Pat Wester said. Water, milk, juice and soda will be available as well.

The station is at 195 Commerce St.