Feb 07 Newsletter
Webmaster
[b]1) EMS TRAINING[/b]
Our members have been busy with EMS training during the month of
January. We use this time of year (bad weather) to get much of our
required classroom training completed. In addition to the training,
we put in place a new EMS Protocol as of 01-01-07. The training has
focused on changes contained in this new document, specifically
several new medications that will be used in the months and years
ahead to improve field care for victims of various medical and
traumatic problems.
[b]2) Apparatus Problems[/b]
During the past month we have had several mechanical difficulties with
some of our first response apparatus. M101 has had engine and
transmission problems, which took it out of service for several days.
We used our back up Medic during this time.
L101 was out of service while repairs were made by the manufacturer
(Sutphen) for transient problems with the electrical controls for the
bucket. Columbus Fire loaned us a ladder truck to use while ours was
gone.
The new Engine we received in Nov also had some electrical problems
with its engine control - it was gone for several days, during which
time we ran a back up engine.
In addition to all of this, the City shop has spent considerable time
making repairs and refurbishing much of the electrical system on our
old Engine/Rescue which will become our back-up engine in the near
future.
[b]3) Looking at New Software[/b]
We are presently looking at options for upgrading our information
management software for fire responses. We hope to review several
solutions during the coming year and make a recommendation for
budgeting in 2008. These changes are aimed at finding a more usable
and reliable system, as well as one that will save considerable money.