Fire Prevention & Support Services

Fire Prevention:

Is a crucial proactive service aimed at reducing the occurrence and impact of fires. This division conducts regular inspections of commercial buildings, schools, and other public facilities to ensure compliance with fire codes. They review building plans for new constructions and renovations, focusing on fire safety features such as sprinkler systems, emergency exits, and fire-resistant materials. Public education is a key component, involving community outreach programs, school visits, and workshops to teach fire safety practices. The team also enforces fire codes, issuing citations for violations and working with property owners to address safety concerns.

Fire Investigations:

Play a critical role in determining the origin and cause of fires. They meticulously examine fire scenes, collecting physical evidence and documenting observations. Investigators interview witnesses and first responders to gather additional information. They use their expertise in fire behavior, building construction, and forensic science to analyze the evidence and reconstruct the events leading to the fire. Their findings are crucial for insurance claims, potential criminal proceedings, and improving fire prevention strategies. In cases of suspected arson, they work closely with law enforcement agencies, providing expert testimony when needed.

Facilities (Fire Stations):

This area focuses on the physical infrastructure of the fire department. It involves the maintenance, repair, and renovation of existing fire stations to ensure they remain functional and efficient. The team oversees the design and construction of new stations, considering factors like response times, community needs, and future growth. They manage the stations' utility systems, including power, water, and HVAC, often implementing energy-efficient solutions to reduce costs. The facilities team also ensures that living quarters, training areas, and equipment storage spaces meet health and safety standards for firefighters.

Information Technology:

IT plays an increasingly vital role in modern fire services. This division manages the department's computer-aided dispatch (CAD) systems, ensuring rapid and accurate emergency response. They maintain and upgrade the department's records management systems, which are crucial for incident reporting, personnel management, and data analysis. The IT team also supports mobile data terminals in fire apparatus, allowing real-time information access during emergencies. Cybersecurity is a growing concern, and the IT division implements measures to protect sensitive data and critical systems from cyber threats. They also manage the department's communications infrastructure, including radios and emergency alert systems.

Fire Apparatus and Staff Vehicles:

This division is responsible for the department's fleet of vehicles. For fire apparatus, this includes the procurement, maintenance, and eventual replacement of fire engines, ladder trucks, rescue vehicles, and other specialized equipment. They work closely with firefighters to ensure vehicles meet operational needs and incorporate the latest safety features and technologies. For staff vehicles, they manage a fleet of cars, SUVs, and light trucks used by fire inspectors, investigators, and administrative personnel. The team oversees regular maintenance schedules, repairs, and upgrades to maximize vehicle lifespan and reliability. They also ensure all vehicles comply with safety regulations and environmental standards.

Each of these areas within the support services division plays a crucial role in enabling the fire department to effectively protect lives and property. Their behind-the-scenes work is essential for maintaining a high level of emergency preparedness and response capability.