The East Dover Volunteer Fire Company was alerted to a reported structure fire on Cattus Island Blvd during the late morning. Upon arrival heavy smoke was showing from a 2 story dwelling. The fire was quickly brought under control despite heavy structural damage. A township general alarm was sounded bringing in assistance from all the fire companies located in the Township of Toms River. Also assisting was the Island Heights Fire Company, Toms River Police, and Toms River Police EMS.

Photo credit: Toms River Patch

Superstorm Sandy had a significant impact on our area. While members, some of which lost their own homes, of the East Dover Volunteer Fire Company were out rescuing people from the rising flood waters in their homes, they returned to find the firehouse under water. The firehouse was under a significant amount of water and it was rising, quickly. The members grabbed what they could of personal belongings and equipment and were forced to abandon the building in which they all loved. Standing in soaking wet firefighting gear, with the idea of leaving their building fresh in their mind, the members of the fire company trudged on. They relocated to Toms River High School East where they set up a temporary firehouse in their conference room. The members continued running calls and removing people trapped by flood waters, despite the knowledge of their building being under water.

Little did they know, until returning after the flood waters were receding, that their building had faced door knob deep water throughout. Walking through the building now you can see from one side to the other, with no obstructions, since it had to be gutted up to 4' high. Crucial equipment had been ruined. The fire company is now conducting business out of 2 small construction trailers located in their parking lot.

Faced with significant financial hurdles, and the extreme cost of rebuilding, the East Dover Volunteer Fire Company is seeking your help. Donations may be mailed to 629 Fischer Blvd, Toms River, NJ 08753 or DONATE via credit card online using the donate button located on the top right corner of our web page, www.edfc4.com.


Members returned to the building the following day while flood waters were receding. The members observed breathing air bottles, shoes, and refrigerators floating around the building like rafts. As well as copious amounts of equipment still completely submerged under water.

We wish you a happy and safe holiday season.

.Open in new windowPrevent Christmas Tree fires.
-Select a fresh green tree with branches that bend but do not break.
- Water! Keep the tree in water always.
- Keep the tree away from heat sources.
- Only keep the trees inside for 2 weeks.
- Recycle the trees at the curb, not in your fireplace.

Maintain your holiday lighting
- Inspect all strands and plugs prior to installation. Replace any damaged strands.
- Use UL or CPSC approved lighting
- Join no more than 3 strands of lights together
- Check the condition of the lights periodically.
- Do not leave them unattended.

Holiday Decorations & Candles
- Use products labeled as flame retardant or non flammable.
- Keep decorations away from heat sources.
- Use candles only as decor, do not light them.
- Keep candles on stable surfaces and away from flammables if you do light them.
- Never leave a candle lit while not around
The Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention

***Due to significant flooding the banquet hall facility located at the East Dover Volunteer Fire Company will be closed indefinitely.***

It is with deep regret and sadness that Station 28 announces the passing of Ex-Chief, Life Member Richard Einwechter. Dick was still active in our company and was one of those individuals who was able to reach across the age barrier and win the respect and love from all those who had the pleasure of meeting him. He had a wealth of knowledge which he eagerly shared with all, and the younger members could always be found listening to his stories about past fires and battles won.
He will be deeply missed by all of us who knew him. The fire service has lost one of its pioneers and we all have lost a good friend!