Sprinkler System
In 2012, we were awarded a FEMA Federal Grant of $94,000 to add a full sprinkler and alarm system to our Central Station. This new alarm system will make our 24/7 station much safer by alerting our members to smoke or fire and allowing for time to escape. Also the sprinklers, if activated, will help suppress a small fire and keep it from spreading, also allowing members to escape the danger.
On - Duty Injuries
Unfortunately, 2012 saw an increase in the number of member on-duty injuries and exposures, however, most proved to be low in severity. We completed a review and analysis of all incidents and, where appropriate, required refresher training and review of policies and procedures. A full risk management report was completed, looking at local and national statistics, and presented to the City Manager in a discussion concerning department staffing.
Safety Equipment
In the spring of 2012, we evaluated, tested and trained with different types of firefighter "bail-out" systems. We will be purchasing this safety equipment for all department members with grant funding. Also, we reviewed our hearing protection equipment and ordered some additional sets of high decibel protection gear. In May, I represented the Fire Department at the Annual Primex Risk Management and Health and Wellness Seminar. This was a 2 day seminar for municipal leaders to learn ideas and strategies for promoting safe and healthy behaviors of employees.
Meetings
We continue to hold department Safety Committee meetings as needed. We also attend the monthly City Wide Safety meetings at City Hall. Finally, in 2012 we participated in Firefighter Safety and Survival Week by completing a full inspection of all members gear and completing a training segment on firefighter rescue and removing superheated gear from a rescued firefighter.
