Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Fire chief reports fleet, hydrant and safety concerns; board backs $12,500 equipment grant application
Summary
The fire chief told the board Jan. incidents included structure and vehicle fires, carbon-monoxide alarms and EMS calls; he reported aging apparatus, buried hydrants and vehicle maintenance needs. The board approved applying for a $12,500 firefighter safety-equipment grant and accepted a $1,000 donation to the fire gift fund.
The town’s fire chief briefed the Board of Selectmen on Jan. activity and operational issues, reporting 34 incidents including a structure fire, vehicle fire and multiple EMS responses. The chief warned that deep snow had buried fire hydrants and that some apparatus have significant maintenance needs, including tires up to 25 years old and heaters not working on engines.
“We have 10 vehicles in our fleet. A lot of them have been either in need of repair or has received some repair,” the fire chief said, listing leaking power-steering, failing heaters and tires with severe dry rot. He urged residents to help clear hydrants during deep snow to speed firefighter response times.
The board approved a $12,500 firefighter safety equipment grant application (no local match) to purchase equipment such as a gear dryer to protect turnout gear and extend service life. Department members discussed 110‑ and 220‑volt dryer options and said the department’s resident electrician will provide the proper power connections as needed.
The board also voted to accept a $1,000 check from Brookfield Savings Bank to the fire gift fund for repairs and services. Members said they would pursue prioritized fleet repairs as funds allow.
The board accepted the fire chief’s report by voice vote.
