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Fire chief warns Narcan, epinephrine may fail if not stored in temperature-controlled unit
Summary
New Ashford’s fire EMS director said Narcan and epinephrine on trucks should be stored near 60°F and raised liability and cost concerns; the board asked staff to research insulated temperature-control boxes as a lower-cost alternative to heating the station.
Lance Beauchamp, EMS director for the New Ashford Fire Department, told the Select Board Dec. 1 that the department is registered to carry naloxone (Narcan) and epinephrine on its trucks but is concerned those medications could "break down" and may not work properly if stored colder than 60°F. He said only EMTs on the department can administer epinephrine and expressed concern about potential legal exposure if the drugs degrade.
Board members debated options to reduce risk without substantially increasing heating costs. Beauchamp said maintaining the fire station at 60°F would double or triple heating expenses. Mark Phelps noted that Narcan's manufacturer guidance lists a recommended storage range of about 36°F to 74°F, and the board discussed whether the town's insurance covers medical care provided by the volunteer department.
The Select Board advised the department to research small temperature-controlled storage units or insulated boxes as a more cost-effective solution and to include projected costs in the department budget. Jason Jayko said the town will weigh the size of New Ashford and budget realities in deciding whether to pursue a storage unit or other measures.
No formal vote was recorded on the storage question; the board directed staff to gather options and cost estimates for future consideration.
