Supports new fire station

To the editor,

Buffalo Hill was once a peaceful pasture; then fields were added until the late 1940s when the Ryder family built the first house up there.

Then, in 1955, homes started appearing. In September 1957, Immanuel Lutheran Home opened its doors for its first residents, approximately 64 in number.

Since that time, Buffalo Hill has expanded to an unbelievable degree.

A massive medical facility has been developed, as well as clinics, offices, churches, homes, apartment buildings, retirement facilities and a myriad of others.

At the present time, there are approximately 756 beds, which includes Kalispell Regional Medical Center, Immanuel Lutheran Home, Buffalo Hill Terrace and a host of others.

The majority of these individuals are bed-ridden and completely dependent on others to move them around.

During this 50 years of expansion, the fire fighting capability still remains in the original location.

Prudent management responsibilities necessitates a review of all aspects of the conditions which have been created by this expansion.

Buffalo Hill needs a fire station. The drive for this should be initiated by the Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

For many years, Immanuel Lutheran Home, on an individual basis, has periodic training sessions for their employees so they will know immediately what to do in case of an emergency.

It is now time for all the facilities to make a concerted effort to bring about a new fire station in this vicinity.

Gene Thompson, retired fire captain

Kalispell Fire Department