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Commission approves $11,880 change to switch fire-truck compartment layouts
Summary
The commission approved a $11,880 change order to switch compartment layouts (L1,L3,R1,R3) on a new fire truck after the fire department discovered the shelving layout was mirrored and would disrupt crews' muscle memory.
Canton's fire department told the commission it must switch four compartment layouts on an in-progress truck at a total added cost of $11,880. Assistant Chief Kevin Chalk described how the department only discovered the mirrored layout after receiving updated photos showing installed shelves, and said the mismatch would force firefighters to go to the wrong compartments in an emergency.
Chalk explained the operational effect: "Basically, what it boils down to is the rural truck and the other city truck…it's just a flip flop for everybody…The guys don't even think about it anymore. They just know, I need this. I go to this compartment." He said the change is about safety and efficiency so crews do not "wander out in the traffic because they went to the wrong side." The commission moved and approved the change order so the manufacturer can reconfigure shelves, adjust outlets and protective coatings and finish the truck.
Staff said delivery had been expected in November but the additional work will push final completion and transfer by a few weeks; the city will not release the old Smeal until the new truck is fully in service.
