Although there is no fire station or much equipment, firefighters from the Elk Mills Poga Volunteer Fire Department are still on duty.

As Hurricane Helene raged through the area on September 27, firefighters were deployed to assist the community when the raging Elk River – near the station – burst its banks.

Fire Chief Michael Walsh said when crews returned, they tried to move all the trucks to higher camp. They got all but one, WJHL reported.

They then watched as the raging river washed around the station and the remaining rig.

Despite their loss, firefighters remained busy responding to the needs of their neighbors, including setting up a food bank and clearing storm debris.

With power and phone service possibly not restored for months and their usual voting location — the fire station — no longer available, residents are wondering where they will cast their vote. In the meantime, residents are helping each other recover in any way they can.

Walsh said he was overwhelmed by the equipment donations the department has received from around the country.

The Midway Volunteer Fire Department in Virginia donated a fire truck that they received when they were in need.

Walsh said if the department does rebuild, it will be at a higher level because he believes it is only a matter of time before the Elk River floods the area again.

But he was certain firefighters wouldn’t consider building a new fire station until the community’s needs were met.