Harlem Township Division of Fire

06/09/2026

05/30/2026

Sometimes, when it rains like absolutely crazy, our back parking lot will flood due to the shear amount of rain.

Of course, since we are surrounded by farm fields, this then leads to a lot of dirt! This week, 3 unit crews multi-tasked and completed some pump training and some cleaning.

05/28/2026

2 unit crews took advantage of the beautiful morning to train on Q-451.

Finally, a morning without pouring rain! It was wonderful to get outside and have some reps with Q-451, including maneuvering the bucket near the building and at different angles.

Looks like we have a few days of sunshine this week, enjoy them!

05/25/2026

Today, and every day, may we remember and honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedoms we enjoy every day.

05/21/2026

Last night (05/20), at the trustees meeting, Harlem Township Division of Fire welcomed our new Assistant Chief, David Blair.

Chief Blair comes to us after 33 years at Columbus Fire Department, where he retired. Additionally, he is an instructor for C-Tec and brings years of experience to the team.

If you see Chief Blair out and about, please say hi! He is eager to meet everyone. We are incredibly fortunate to have him as an Assistant Chief, and look forward to his service.

As always, the Harlem Township Division of Fire would like to thank the trustees and residents for their trust and support in the department.

05/14/2026

Today (05/14), 1 unit crews trained on drafting from a dump tank and water relay.

We don’t often draft from dump tanks, but the technique is entirely different than using a hydrant, so it is incredibly important to continue to practice the skill for when we need it.

Draft tanks allow for multiple tankers to drop off their water and go refill, instead of waiting on the scene until they are empty. It is significantly faster than connecting each tanker via hoses.

05/04/2026

This morning (05/04), 2 unit crews took advantage of the beautiful weather to train on dry hydrant drafting!

We have quite a few “dry hydrants” that are supplied by various forms of water around the township. Drafting from these is different than drafting from a dump tank, so keeping our skills sharp on both is important!

04/23/2026

04/22/2026

Yesterday (04/21), Harlem Township Division of Fire recognized the retirement of Assistant Chief Mike McKeen.

Chief McKeen worked at Harlem Township Division of Fire for 39 years. In addition to working for Harlem Township, Chief McKeen worked for Columbus Fire, and is an instructor at DACC.

Chief McKeen stepped up and helped the progression of the fire department 3 years ago. Since then, he has continued to make incredible contributions to the department to continue moving us forward.

Additionally, Lt. Thrash presented Assistant Chief McKeen with a ceremonial axe, and Lt. Cade presented Assistant Chief McKeen with a ceremonial plaque.

Thank you, Chief, for your dedicated 39 years of service. It was an honor to work with you. Enjoy retirement!

04/22/2026