Friday, March 29, 2024

Chelan Fire and Rescue discusses Explorer Post program, marine vessel

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CHELAN – Chelan Fire and Rescue held their regularly scheduled monthly commissioners meeting, Wednesday, August 9, at District 7 Fire Station. General agenda covered in this month’s meeting included:
• 2017 Goal and Objectives
• Facilities/Apparatus and Equipment
• Emergency Response Report
• Training
Other topics covered in the meeting included Career and Volunteer Personnel, Fire Prevention, Marine Fire Response Update, and the Achilles Boat listed as a surplus item.
Assistant Fire Chief Mark Donnell spoke to personnel status, mentioned reinstatement requests from previous employees, and an “Explorer Post” volunteer program. The “mini recruit academy,” Said Donnell, will be included in the school districts club program, “we’re committed to making it work.” The ages for eligibility for the explorer post range from 14-21 years old, however, Donnell stated that the goal is to move the explorer’s in to more of a resident program once they reach 18 years old.
The Explorers will be part of the fire district, although there will be restrictions to what they can and cannot partake in. They will not be involved in any ideal aide or fire situations; however, they will be able to perform other actions including putting on bunker gear, taking hoses, and flowing water. The “mini recruits” will also be able to participate in District 7’s Tuesday night drills, with some limitations in accordance with minor laws.
Fire Hazard Level
Fire Chief Tim Lemon provided an update on the fire hazard level for Chelan County, stated that the hazard level as moved to extreme, meaning absolutely no flames throughout Chelan County. While compressed gas, barbecues, and some flameless firepits can still be used, “anything that produces an ash, spark, or ember is considered illegal,” concluded Lemon.
New Marine Vessel
Summing up the meeting, Commissioner Russ Jones provided an informational update on Marine Fire Response. Jones stated that parameters for the new marine vessel were discussed on Monday, explaining that they are trying to “paint a picture of what they would like to have, then find the funding sources for it.” A few of the parameters sought for the replacement vessel include a landing craft bow, jet propulsion, diesel engine, and ability to carry up to six people.  “There’s a boat right now (that we like), unfortunately it’s up in Alaska,” Jones added, “on the surplus stuff it’d be best if it’s close enough for us to get a look at it first.” The current river raft vessel, the Achilles Marine 71, is out of service and will be listed as a surplus item to be bid on.
 

Chelan, Fire and Rescue, meetings

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