On Monday, Sept. 15, Emergency Responders from Eastern Berks Fire, Boyertown Area Fire and Rescue, and Gilbertsville Fire and Rescue, as well as EMS personnel from Boyertown, Bally and Gilbertsville, were given a guided tour of the Martin Stone Quarry operation in Colebrookdale Township.
Organized by quarry employee Bruce Hoffman, who has a long history of EMS and Fire service in Bally, the tour acquainted responders with the layout, potential hazards and safety features of the open mine operation. Before the tour began, Safety Director Anne Kelhart gave an overview of what would be seen, and the procedures that would be followed should there be an incident at the quarry. Rod Martin treated the crews to pretzels, water and a MSQ camo hat.
The large group of responders was divided into two groups which were led by Hoffman and manager Pic Reichart. Electrical stations, underground conveyor belts, screening operations, and the immense off-road quarry vehicle were all part of the highlights.
A thanks is extended to the Martin Stone Quarry from the fire companies.