The Indian River Volunteer Fire Company implemented its Duty Crew Protocol to man the stations and be prepared should an emergency situation arise. 

• The Station #1 Operations commenced at 12 midnight on Saturday (01/24/2026) thru 8 a. Sunday (01/25/2026).  

• Both stations utilized the standby duty crews commencing at 8 a. on Sunday (01/26/2026) until dismissed.

During inclement weather, Delaware fire companies frequently "man the station"—a practice known as a standby or crewing up—to ensure immediate response times when hazardous road conditions would otherwise delay volunteers traveling from home. 

Typical Station Staffing During Weather Events

• Station Standbys: Volunteers stay overnight at the firehouse to provide 24/7 coverage. For example, during Winter Storm Fern (January 23–26, 2026), many companies maintained staffing to bypass local travel delays caused by snow and ice.

• National Guard Integration: During state-declared emergencies, the Delaware National Guard often stages assets and personnel directly inside local fire stations to assist with high-clearance vehicle transport and emergency medical response.

• Internal Support: In some companies, members provide internal "shoveling squads" to clear the fire station pads, driveways, etc. ensuring they can respond from the station safely during periods of inclement weather. 

Public Services Offered at Stations

Beyond fire and EMS response, Delaware fire stations may change their operational role during severe weather:

• Warming Centers: While the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) operates primary warming stations at state service centers, local fire departments frequently open as temporary warming centers or reception centers during prolonged power outages or coastal flooding.

• Reception Centers: Specific stations are designated as official reception centers for residents displaced by coastal flooding or evacuations. 

Community Safety Reminders

During snow events, Delaware fire companies urge residents to take the following actions:

1. Clear Fire Hydrants: Shovel a three-foot radius around hydrants near your home to prevent delays in water supply during a fire.

2. Respect Driving Restrictions: During Level 2 or Level 3 Driving Bans (as seen in January 2026), only essential emergency personnel are permitted on the roads.

3. Use 211 for Non-Emergencies: For help with food, heat, or shelter during a storm, residents should call Delaware 211 rather than the station's emergency line.