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Council hears that GPS units knocked out power on fire trucks; $675 repair and liability discussed
Summary
Councilors and fire-department representatives discussed Samsara GPS units that caused engines to lose power, a repair bill of $675.52, and concerns about liability if a truck failed in an emergency; council said credits may offset some costs and directed staff to pursue alternate GPS options.
Town Council members and fire personnel debated equipment failures on July 7 after several fire trucks lost power, which staff linked to installed Samsara GPS units.
Agency official (S4) described the problem: "Engine 30-1 and engine 30-2 both fell on our base... the Samsara unit requires 2 volts. Transmission takes 5, and the way it's hooked up, it route the bolts away from the transmission," he said, adding that because of the way the unit was hooked up it "would not pump" and left a truck with no power. S4 said he had removed the units because he did not want the liability of a truck losing power in the middle of a response.
Clerk (S3) and others identified a repair bill of $675.52 for the engine issue. Council member (S2) questioned whether the town or the fire department should bear the cost; S3 said the vendor indicated the town might receive a credit so the cost may not fall to the fire department.
Why it matters: Councilors raised the safety and liability risks of trucks going out of service because of equipment installation. S3 agreed to contact the vendor to explore alternate Samsara units that do not tie into engine systems and to report back so the council can make an informed decision about replacement or different units.
Council follow-up: Staff will contact the vendor (Samsara) about units that do not interface with engine systems, and the council will consider replacement options once staff returns with details. No formal vote on funding for repairs or replacements occurred at the meeting.
Quotes in context: "That's why it fell on space and would not pump," said Agency official (S4) describing why the unit caused failure. Clerk (S3) reported a $675.52 bill and told councilors they might receive a credit to cover the cost.
Next step: Staff will pursue vendor options and report back to the council before purchasing replacement units or assigning repair costs.
