Finding Safety and Savings
While doing some Internet research last week, I came across a U.S. Fire Administration firefighter fatality notice from Feb. 23. The notice read that 34-year-old Firefighter Derek North of the Stockton Fire Department in Lakeland, Ga., died while responding to a fire call. North’s brother was driving the department’s 1966 Ford Fire Knocker when he swerved to avoid a collision. The vehicle overturned and Derek North, who was in the officer’s seat, was killed while Chad North sustained serious injuries.
Several years ago, the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association issued a white paper that claimed that 50% of apparatus in the United States is older than 15 years and not in compliance with NFPA standards. But even if a fire truck might is old and non-compliant, if it is properly maintained and safely operated, no one should die.
The current economy is making it more difficult for fire departments to purchase new apparatus and the future is not looking much better. Fire chiefs across the country are looking closely at all aspects of apparatus specifications, leasing options and preventive maintenance.
In last week’s Command Post, I wrote about a fire chief roundtable at the recent FEMSA/FAMA meeting, where leaders from various size departments responded to questions about apparatus purchasing.
Chief Jeff Johnson of Tualatin Valley (Ore.) Fire & Rescue talked about how his department is considering “zippy” cars that would be placed on located on highways during rush hour for EMS response. Johnson said that such vehicles could save time and money, compared to dispatching a larger apparatus. The quick response makes sense when accidents add to traffic congestion and make it even more difficult for emergency vehicles — especially large vehicles that may not be needed — to get through.
Richmond (Va.) Fire Chief Robert Creecy said that he repeatedly reminds his staff that they are caring for other’s property. “We live in rental property and drive rental cars,” he said. “The buildings belong to the city and the vehicles belong to fleet services.” Right now, Richmond faces a monumental task of replacing a fleet of quints purchased in 1997.
Several fire departments are trying to extend the life of their apparatus and buying standard demo units to save money. Chief Don Oliver of Wilson (N.C.) Fire Rescue told me that when the department was purchasing new vehicles for officers, it chose a demo SUV and van from their local Chrysler dealership. Oliver said that they saved a good chunk of money by buying used.
Can you continue to cut your budget and not affect the safety of your community and your department?
