Washington County Enterprise-Leader
Farmington Adds New Firefighter
City Fire Department Receives More Than 30 Applications For Position
FARMINGTON — Peter Oxford comes from a family of firefighters so it seems natural that he is continuing the tradition.
Oxford, 21, recently was hired to fill the first full-time position at the Farmington Fire Department in five years. The department now has three full-time firefighters: Chief Mark Cunningham, Oxford and a third full-time position that is filled by members of the department on a rotating, part-time basis. The rotating position was approved in 2007.
Oxford grew up around a fire station. His father, Mike Oxford, is chief for the Wheeler Fire Department, and a brother also volunteers for Wheeler. Peter Oxford began his service with Wheeler as a junior firefighter at age 16 and has served as a volunteer since then.
He is a first responder, certified in firefighting 1 and 2 and has graduated from the Arkansas Fire Training Academy. This fall, he will work on his emergency medical
technician certification.
Cunningham said the department received more than 30 applications for the new position and Oxford stood out because of his certifications, his experience and his willingness to learn.
“He was well-mannered and an Eagle Scout,” Cunningham said. “He's young and eager to learn our ways but already knows about firefighting.”
Cunningham added, “He's making a real, good hand and is willing to do anything. I think the citizens of Farming- ton will be happy with him.”
Oxford said he applied for the Farmington job because he wants to work in a small town.
“I like being in a smaller city so I can get to know the people better,” Oxford said.
Oxford's employment includes a 90-day probationary period. When his training is completed, the fire department will have a firefighter on duty from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-friday and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Eventually, Cunningham said he hopes to extend those hours.