The familiar sound of the Pāpāmoa Fire Station siren has been silenced. With the exception of a weekly test, it will no longer fill the daytime airwaves to signal a fire emergency.
Pāpāmoa Deputy Chief Fire Officer Pat Wilson says it's a sign of the times as the Bay of Plenty's suburban sprawl means it's easier to alert firefighters via pagers and the Fire and Emergency app.
But while the station itself may be quieter, Pat says they always need more boots on the ground.
Pāpāmoa Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Pat Wilson with his wife Nicola at a brigade Honours Night. Photo: SUPPLIED/Pat Wilson
