MTFR Fire Station 202 – Richmond Square

Engine 202 (2011 Pierce Arrow XT Pumper)

On January 15, 2022, Manheim Township Board of Commissioners opened their first new fire station in over 70 years. This community focused fire station was strategically recognized as an area for improved fire rescue response. Data collected immediately, showcased a reduction in response times to the northwest section of Manheim Township by 40%.

Being the third-largest first-class township in the commonwealth behind Upper Darby and Lower Merion. That kind of scope requires careful consideration with regard to fire protection, and the placement of the Richmond station with three firefighters on call at all times is tied to Manheim Township’s Insurance Services Office (ISO) number, which Little noted dictates what homeowners and commercial buildings pay for insurance premiums. “Right now, we are in the top 5% of the country,” said Little, who added that more than 48,000 companies are graded on fire rescue. “It’s something for us to be proud of.”

The chief is as pleased with the way the new station fits into the Richmond Square neighborhood as he is with the ratings the fire service has garnered. Station 202 is located at 600 Richmond Drive, Lancaster, in a former bank building owned by and leased from Oak Tree, which owns the adjacent commercial buildings. “The safer your community, the better the community is for people to live and work and raise families here,” said Little, who noted that a number of positives were considered in the placement of the station. “This station has a community feel,” he said, pointing out the number of area residents who walk their dogs by the station daily. MTFR personnel have responded to their canine neighbors by stocking dog treats and putting out bowls of water. “Being there for our community and having conversation is important,” said Little.