Bluenose Inn Fire – 1 Year Ago February 10, 2021 [PHOTOS]

It's seems like a lifetime ago that tragedy struck Bar Harbor with the devastating fire that destroyed the annex at the Bluenose Inn in Bar Harbor on February 10, 2021

A year later I'm still impressed by the efficiency and good work by the fire departments from across the region. This effort took more than an Island! With all of the firefighters responding, crews from Penobscot and Waldo Counties back-filled to cover responding departments, so no one was without coverage. The professionalism of the responding Fire Departments was apparent as they worked together seamlessly to attack the fire. You can tell the hours of training paid off.

The generosity of those responding to bring food and drink to the firefighters was overwhelming. When I put out the call for help, the Bar Harbor Police and Fire Dispatch contacted me to say they had enough! You quickly responded bringing much relief to those fighting the fire!

A year ago I wrote 5 things you can do to support your local fire departments. They still hold true today!

1. Volunteer to be a firefighter or assist your local fire department! The departments are woefully understaffed and don't have enough volunteers. You will be trained. You don't have to be an interior firefighter. There are enough jobs for everyone! Talk to your local fire department and ask them how you can help!
2. Check with your local fire department and offer to bring them a home-cooked meal. Call the local dispatch (non-emergency number please) or email the Chief and ask when you can bring something by.
3. If you have young children have them make a card or note and thank the firefighters! You'd be surprised how much the members of the department will appreciate that!
4. The next bean supper or pancake breakfast that the department hosts, make sure you attend and thank the members in person
5. Support their budgets when it comes to town meetings.