To: Deering Board of Selectmen
From: Chief Andy Anderson
Date: 1 July 2006
Subject: Monthly Report
This month’s report will cover the period from 1 June to 30 June 2006 inclusive. The Deering Fire and Rescue responded to 14 calls during this period, bringing our mid year total to 113.
We experienced a very busy month with many different activities. Members of the Department traveled to the Hillsboro-Deering Middle School on June 1st to take part in Career Day. Ambulance One and Engine Three were visited by the teachers and students who received a tour to see the “Jaws of Life” first hand and to explore an ALS ambulance. We were joined by members of the New Hampshire Fire Academy and their Harmless Hazards trailer. We would like to thank the school for inviting us and we look forward to next year’s Career Day.
The Officer’s were the first to participate in training on the new SCBA on June 2nd with representatives from Fire Tech & Safety. These breathing apparatus are remarkably advanced compared to the air packs we have had in the past which will further enhance the safety of our members. The balance of the Department received training in the SCBA on the 13th. All but one of our members were fit-tested the same evening. Fit-testing determines which size mask will provide the most protection for the wearer.
Despite the rain, Safety Day on June 3rd was well attended with townspeople having an opportunity to see the Holmatro Rescue Tools in application performing extrication exercises on a donated vehicle in the parking lot of the Town Hall. Our SCBA were on display along with a Fire Extinguisher building prop that the Explorer’s had created and the Rescue Boat. We had invited some Canine Rescue dogs and their handlers and they joined the Fire & Rescue and Police Departments for an informational morning. This is a Public Service activity that we feel should continue each year.
The Rescue Boat took its Maiden Voyage around Deering Lake on June 4th. Three separate crews operated the craft to gain some experience on a windy and rainy day with borrowed personal floatation devices and helmets from the NHFA. On the 25th most of the Department participated in Boater Safety training so we can receive our State certifications. Those who could not attend will receive the training at a later date. At this time the training is not mandated by the State but our Department has made it an operational standard.
We are waiting for quotes to return from three vendors for our PFD’s, helmets, and lighting equipment. As soon as they arrive and we can complete these purchases the boat will be placed in service. At the end of the month Maine Line Graphics provided the lettering for the boat which is housed at the Donovan Station.
Shifting back to the SCBA, the other piece of equipment that we needed to put the new packs in service was installed during the month of June. On the 20th we trained with Fire Tech & Safety representatives on the operation of the compressor and breathing air cascade system that we need to refill our air cylinders. Once the new packs and cylinders are marked with our identification system and the new mounting brackets arrive from Fire Tech & Safety we will be able to place these units in service as well.
Another item on display at Safety Day was a new Stair Chair that the Fire and Rescue Association purchased with several years of donated funds. The older model was difficult to use and was designed without much thought being given to the prevention of serious back injuries to the Rescuer. The new model will allow two Rescuers to move a patient down flights of stairs easily and safely.
We also received a donated Quonset Hut that we assembled behind the McAlister Station. We will use this hut for storage of non essential items while we renovate the inside of the building to make room to house the new Engine One.
Engine Two experienced a problem with the pump during the month. The pump was leaking a substantial stream of water when engaged. W.D. Perkins inspected the leak and was able to replace the packing (a minor repair) on the pump. We had been experiencing some difficulties drafting through the front suction of the truck – Mr. Perkins feels that with the packing replaced this problem will also be alleviated.
I had a brief meeting with the Explorer’s on the 25th. They are enthusiastic about restoring the antique Engine 84. Their goal is to have this piece of apparatus parade ready by the Spring of 2007.
The Fire and Rescue Call Summary and Apparatus Report for the month of June are attached.
Respectfully Submitted,
Chief Andy Anderson
Deering Fire and Rescue
Cc: File
Assistant Chief R. Pragoff
Deputy Chief C. Ladue
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