It's springtime once again and I thought it was time to address the community that we so proudly protect and serve. As Chief of the Levittown Fire Department, I would like to remind all of our citizens that this Sunday, April 28, your neighbors that belong to our department will be collecting door-to-door on our annual fund drive. On behalf of our 250-plus member strong department, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for those citizens who chose to generously contribute via the mail and also wish to remind you that your department opened our doors over 50 years ago and has remained open ever since. Your contribution is so vitally important and sends a message to your volunteers that their efforts are appreciated and recognized. Each member contributes literally hundreds of hours in training and responding to alarms; sharpening their skills to better serve their fellow citizens.

I must, however, regretfully advise our community that we may be falling victim to vile con artists who have shamelessly telephoned residents, claimed to be Levittown firefighters, told them to anticipate a visit and potentially may attempt to collect a donation meant for us. Each resident should be aware that all of our members carry a laminated department ID card and are directed to produce it upon request; and we will never contact our residents by phone! We also will be in uniform, department shirt, and/or hat. If any resident has any questions they may contact the Levittown Fire Department on our message phone at 731-5800.