A.  OPERATIONS

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT  

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:                                       

Brush 1 - In Service.      Brush 2 - In Service.            

Tanker 1 - In Service.     Utility 1 - In Service.      

Tanker 2 - In Service.     Manpower 1 - In Service.

Engine 1 - In Service.     Support 1 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service.

Engine 1, (1987 Pierce), is scheduled to go in the shop during the week of February 6th.  This is necessary to replace a steering control bracket which has been recalled by the factory.  We anticpate the engine to be out of service for about 24 hours.

The Truck Committee has reached a consensus regarding design and application for the the two new brush trucks.  It is agreed that both units will be CAFS, (Compressed Air Foam), units.  One will be a large unit placed on a heavier chassis, while the other will be built as a lighter quick attack vehicle.

Currently we are price shopping on chassis.  Inquiries are being made through HGAC as well as local truck dealers.  It is hoped that we will be able to make a good deal on a chassis that can be sent to Arizona where the fire body will be manufacured.

Final details and plans will be presented to the District Commissioners prior to any commitment.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

We are expecting to begin receiving delivery of some of the radio equipment ordered from Motorola within 45-60 days.  We know that programming and building of the equipment has begun.

Chief Frick and I have spent considerable time since the last Commissioners’ Meeting, working with vendors on the equipment lists in the Contractual Obligation portion of the budget.  We will present a number of purchase orders for consideration at the meeting on February 9th.

I have been informed this morning that bunker clothing is being shipped UPS to us today.  This is after having been given 2 shipping dates previously.  I spent some very angry time on the phone yesterday trying to get this situation resolved.  The vendor and manufacturer were informed that there appeared to be a breach of agreement on their part; and, that I was close to refusing the order.  They got the point when I told them I hoped there was another buyer lined up that would like to use our logo and names on the back of 85 sets of bunker clothing.

  ALARM INFORMATION  

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru January  1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118      9  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37      4  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     12  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44      2  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29      1  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895     97  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105      7  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371    132  |

|============================================================================|

|##PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

January proved to be no different than any other recent month.  We responded to 132 alarms compared to 107 during January 1994.  Call volumes continue to rise.

TRAINING

The Recruit Training Class scheduled for February will be delayed until March.  We are waiting to receive the training curriculum.  As previously reported we are implementing the State Firemen and Fire Marshal’s Program which is consistent with NFPA Standards.

We secured 5 slots in an Emergency Care Attendant class to be conducted in Westlake.  This, and a class planned for later in the year should reinforce our ranks for medical response.  Of special note is the fact that $350.00 in memorials were received by the Department for Alice Ware, the Pflugerville Mayor’s mother.  These funds are being utilized to help defray the cost of tution for the mentioned ECA’s.

OTHER OPERATIONS MATTERS

Work on a Statewide Mutual Aid plan continues.  Chief John Cook, Denton is the leading force in this effort.  The State Division of Emergency Management is fully supportive of the effort.  This will greatly enhance the ability of fire departments across the State to assist each other.

*****

There may be an effort in the Legislature to allow County Commissioners to create single Emergency Service Districts without taxing authority.  This effort would allow volunteer fire departments to avail themselves of risk pool type insurance, as they could then be affiliated with a polictical subdivision.  The effort should have no impact on TCESD #2 or any other Travis County District, unless some wording changes are made that are not presently in the bill draft.

I will learn more about this in a meeting scheduled for February 8th.  

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

Memberships:

 VOLUNTEERS:                        PAID STAFF:8

     Active Personnel                   Full-time............  1

          Recruits          17          Part-time............ 16

          Regulars          36                                18

          Probationary       0

                            53

     Honorary Members......  3          

                   TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

                    Fire.................. 32

                    EMS...................  9    

                    Combination........... 12

*****

Approval to fill vacancies has been given to each Staff Shift Supervisor.  The intent is to fill vacancies created by recent resignations and the additional firefighter position at each station.

Optimal manpower levels will be 4 persons at Central, to include the Shift Supervisor; and, 3 at Station 2.  This level approaches a more traditional engine company manning level.

*****

Advertisement to fill the position vacated by Melissa Powell will follow the Commissioners Meeting on the 9th, pending any changes directed by the Commissioners.  It is my intention to fill the vacancy as soon as possible.  We have been able to maintain workloads of the Department and District with the help of Susan Moellenberg.  She has helped out around the office by answering telephones; directing inquiries; doing the mail; and generally anything that she is asked to do.

A.  OPERATIONS

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT  

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:                                       

Brush 1 - In Service. Engine 1 - In Service.            

Brush 2 - In Service. Utility 1 - In Service.

Brush 3 - Out of Service.     Manpower 1 - In Service.

Tanker 1 - In Service.        Support 1 - In Service.      

Tanker 2 - In Service.     

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service.

The Brush Truck Committee has reached a point in the planning process where they wish to send a delegation to Arizona to visit with the Pneumax Company.  This Company is reportedly the leader in Compressed Air Foam Systems.  The Executive Board has agreed to fund or at least partially fund the trip.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

Radio equipment from Motorola has begun to arrive.  We can expect all equipment to be delivered in 45-60 days.  That means the system could be functional soon after that period.  

We have agreed upon a site at the Water Standpipe on Cherokee Run.  Erection of the Repeater Building is awaiting approval from the A.G. on the Line of Credit Loan.

*****

The shipment of Bunker Clothing has been received and the bill is pending.  Final cost of the order was $41,905.00.  The order was correct with

the exception of two names mis-spelled.  All personnel are very pleased with the new bunker clothing.

  ALARM INFORMATION  

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru January  1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118     19  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     11  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     27  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44      7  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29      1  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    164  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105     14  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371    243  |

|============================================================================|

|##PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

The current call statistics show a 20.9% increase in call volume over the same period for 1994.  It seems that call volume is not only increasing, the amount of increase is growing.

TRAINING

The Recruit Training Class will begin this month.  The class has been closed with the last two new volunteers being accepted into the Department on March 1st.

OTHER OPERATIONS MATTERS

The Rural Fire Advisory Committee met here on February 24 - 25, 1995.  The purpose of the meeting was to review efforts on Statewide Mutual Aid.  The Division of Emergency Management is quite interested in the effort and it appears they will spearhead movement through the Legislature.

Another equally important effort is the mechanism to provide low cost liability insurance to volunteer fire departments.  This effort is designed to create a mechanism which will allow even the smaller fire departments access to risk pools like the Texas Municipal League.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

Memberships:

 VOLUNTEERS:                        PAID STAFF:8

     Active Personnel                   Full-time............  1

          Recruits           7          Part-time............ 23

          Regulars          42                                24

          Probationary       0

                            49

     Honorary Members......  3          

                   TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

                    Fire.................. 28

                    EMS...................  7    

                    Combination........... 14

*****

Interview of applicants for the Secretary’s position will be held on March 7 & 8th.  A total of 11 applicants will be interviewed.  Interview panel members include Richard Logue, John Grasshoff, Mike Frick, and me.  Selection of the successful candidate should be made by the beginning of next week.

A.  OPERATIONS

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT  

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:                                       

Brush 1 - In Service. Engine 1 - In Service.            

Brush 2 - In Service. Utility 1 - In Service.

Brush 3 - Out of Service.     Manpower 1 - In Service.

Tanker 1 - In Service.        Support 1 - In Service.      

Tanker 2 - In Service.     

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service.

Brush Truck 3, (the TFS 6 X 6 “Brush Hawg”), remains out of service due to the diesel engine on the pump.  It needs to be replaced with a gasoline engine at an estimated cost of $1,500.00.  Replacement should be made by the end of April.  

No additional meetings of the Brush Truck Committee have been held.  Activity has been placed on hold until resolution of the problems associated with the Master Lease Agreement.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

Procurement of equipment delineated with the Master Lease Agreement has been halted until Master Lease Agreement problems, (Attorney General Opinion), have been cleared. 

The building to house the new radio repeater was erected just prior to the instruction to halt activity.  It is on the site as agreed with the City of Pflugerville, but not compete with respect to electrical work or other interior finish.

  ALARM INFORMATION  

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru March    1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118     28  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     14  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     33  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     10  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29      1  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    252  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105     19  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371    357  |

|============================================================================|

|##PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

The month of March was somewhat slower than previous months with respect to call volume.  However, the overall call volume remains 11.2% greater than that of last year at this time.  April has started off to be another rough month too.  We have responded to 42 alarms in the first 9 days.

TRAINING

Two specialty training classes will be attended by our personnel in April and May.  First, we have reserved two slots in a Swift Water Rescue Technician Class to be held April 28 - 30 in Wimberly.  This particular training has proven to be a high priority among our personnel in the last two years with the number of water rescues we have.

The second class, “Leading Combination Fire Departments Into The Next Century”, is scheduled for May 20 - 21, in Dallas.  For obvious reasons, we need to have several of our Officers attend.  I plan to attend also.  A copy of the class notice is included in the Commissioners’ packets.  This class might also be of benefit to any Commissioner who would like to attend.

OTHER OPERATIONS MATTERS

Company Officers are currently interviewing Officer Candidates.  This follows a period of formal testing and review of credentials for individuals who have expressed a desire to be commissioned as a Operational Company Officer.  

Through this process we hope to fill the vacancies in the  Cadre of Officers which have existed for some time.  Once ranking of candidates is completed, Companies will bid for available candidates.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

Memberships:

 VOLUNTEERS:                        PAID STAFF:8

     Active Personnel                   Full-time............  2

          Recruits           7          Part-time............ 24

          Regulars          42                                26

          Probationary       0

                            49

     Honorary Members......  3          

                   TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

                    Fire.................. 28

                    EMS...................  7    

                    Combination........... 14

*****

Brandi Carlson has been selected to fill the Secretary’s position.  She began work on March 27, 1995.  Brandi was selected following an intense period of interview and testing.  She brings a lot of appropriate experience to the District; and, it’s great to have her on board.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - Out of Service Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

The gasoline engine for the auxiliary pump on Brush 3 is on order.  We hope to have this truck in service very soon.  

Brush Truck Committee status remains unchanged.  Once the Master Lease Plan is finalized, the Committee will resume its work.  Committee Members are anxious to travel to Arizona to see the work that Pneumax does with Compressed Air Foam Systems.

EQUIPMENT:

Concern for completion of the Master Lease Plan is increasing.  Motorola is working on completion of the Communications System in order to bill HGAC who will in turn formally bill the District for the equipment.  CASCO has continued to hold the self-contained breathing apparatus at the local dealer for us.  The backlog of equipment and orders is making the dealers uncertain.

Another problem that the delay of the Master Lease amplifies is the backlog on repairs.  As an example, our breathing apparatus repairs are on hold since we did not want to repair equipment slated for replacement.  There is a backlog on this equipment and we may soon be faced with an expensive decision to bring a Certified Technician to the District to make repairs on the old equipment.

ALARM INFORMATION:

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru April   1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118     41  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     20  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     37  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     15  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29      3  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    349  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105     23  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371    488  |

|============================================================================|

|##PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

There was a noted increase in the number of structure fires this month.  Of the six, one was an intentional fire in Pflugerville Middle School; one was a fire set in an office building to cover a burglary; one was a fire in a detached garage caused by electrical short; and, one was a dwelling fire of suspicious origin; and, the others were small fires.

The statistics still reveal an increase of 14.8% over the same period last year.

TRAINING:

Two volunteers and I will be traveling to Dallas to the National Volunteer Fire Council class on “Leading Combination Fire Departments Into the Next Century”.  This class is scheduled for May 20 - 21st.  Course announcement materials were in Commissioners’ packets last month.  If any Commissioner has an interest in going, we will be glad to make arrangements.

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

I met with Truitt Gilbreath, City Manager and David Buesing, Police Chief, following the 9-1-1 meeting on April 26th.  This meeting was intended to open lines of communication with the City Staff in order to dispell bad information which seems to have made its way there.  We discussed the District’s overall view of service and needs.  I shared essentially the same information which had been given during the public work session on Saturday April 8th.  We agreed that we should have such meetings on a more regular basis.

*****

The 9-1-1 compromise worked out on April 26th, provides us with hope that regional communications will not be wrecked by the City becoming a primary PSAP.  The temporary change will not affect us over the long haul, provided that calls are not delayed by the local dispatcher in a screening process.  Chief Frick and I will meet with Buesing soon to determine dialogue and protocols the Police Department intends to utilize.

In a special City Council meeting held on May 2, 1995, the City was informed by their attorneys that the City could not simply pull out of the District.  There is no clear cut provision in the law that allows for simple removal.  Additionally, the City Manager reported that the cost to the Citizens of Pflugerville would be higher than it currently is for the same level of service.  The apparent problem City Council has with the District, is a concern for bonded indebtedness.  Comments from the Council during the meeting indicated that bad information had been given to them regarding the District’s intent and exactly how debt service for an Emergency Service District is handled.

*****

During the week of May 8 - 12, Texas Forest Service Personnel will be in Travis County.  A number of important events will take place while they are here.  First, a presentation will be made regarding interpretation of the Fire Weather Data that is collected by the monitoring station installed last year.  We will develop a set of criteria that will be used to forecast fire behavior during the wildfire season that is based on weather and fuel conditions.

Secondly, we will host a group of Urban Foresters who are taking a class on wildfire behavior.  Our personnel will demonstrate the use of Class A foam and how we attack a brush fire.

Finally, on May 11th, we will present hand tools to the Del Valle C.O.R.E.  These tools were purchased with donations from a number of Fire Departments and Districts in the County.  The C.O.R.E. is the Boot Camp program for first time offenders in the County.  We have used these people on fire scenes before, but they are poorly equipped to fight fire.

*****

The County Chiefs will meet on May 8th in Oak Hill.  Of most interest in this meeting will be a presentation by Debbie Rich on budget plans for County EMS.  Austin and Travis County are once again at the point of renewal of the Interlocal Service Agreement.  Little progress on service change or costs has been made.  A lot of rumors are beginning to fly as is typical at this time when budget proposals are being brought forward.

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 28

          Recruits ........  6         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 14

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 24

C.  GENERAL

The Local Emergency Planning Committee, (LEPC), has begun the process of looking at the ability to respond to hazardous materials incidents.  During the last meeting we discussed the lack of resources in the County as compared to the City of Austin.  The LEPC will evaluate the capability and plans of actions in the coming months.

*****

The Pflugerville Seratoma Club has invited me to speak to their group regarding the 9-1-1 issue and fire protection for the community.  I agreed to address their group on Tuesday, May 9th.  

It is my intention to make more public presentations in the future, and to develop a better program of Public Relations in the Community.  This has been discussed with the PVFD Executive Board.  There may need to be a more concerted effort on the part of the District and the Fire Department in this arena.

*****

Another effort which may have merit was discussed earlier this week with the Administrator for Harris County Emergency Service District No. 1.  He suggests  a meeting of District Commissioners and key personnel to create an Association for exchange of ideas and information.  I’m not sure if he was interested in starting the ball rolling or merely suggesting that it should be done.  The idea held my interest as I listened to some of that District’s problems and the way they conduct business.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - Out of Service Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

Brush Truck 3 has been prepped for painting by the Volunteers.  The gasoline engine for the pump has not yet been installed.  Once the pump is installed and painting complete, the truck will be placed in service with the fleet.

EQUIPMENT:

Final installation of the repeater system has been postponed until June 19th.  This is a result of severe weather during the period when installation was supposed to take place.  Now Captain Wilks, (who is also the Communications Officer), is on vacation.  We will get the system up as soon as Wilks returns from leave.

ALARM INFORMATION:

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru May  1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118     51  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     22  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     43  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     22  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29      3  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    418  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105     40  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371    599  |

|============================================================================|

|##PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

Present alarm volume remains higher than that of last year at this time.  The current call total is 20.0% higher than through May 1994.  The Memorial Day Holiday and severe weather made for a very busy three day period.  A total of 18 alarms were answered in the three-day period.

TRAINING:

The training session in Dallas, “Leading Combination Fire Departments Into the Next Century”, was excellent.  The program addressed leadership and management techniques and traits.  An examination of fire service in the future was also made.  The program was designed to allow fire officers and leaders to think about the real mission ahead.  Dr. Ray Johnson, Commissioner ESD #4, and I discussed the possibility of bringing the program to Austin.  We both feel it would be a great benefit to Officers and Commissioners alike.

The need for expanded training programs in Swift Water Rescue were again highlighted during Memorial Day Holidays.  Fortunately, Austin Fire Department was available to assist us with one rescue in Wilbarger Creek at Schmidt Ln and Cameron Road.  We also evacuated 3 families from 4 homes that flooded in the Blackhawk subdivision.

Tution for 11 students has been paid at the Annual Firemen’s Training School at College Station.  The Commissioners might consider making a trip to College Station during the week-long school to observe training there.  One day is designated as a visitors’ day each year.  

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

The International Fire Chiefs’ Association will hold its annual meeting in Louisville, KY in September.  This meeting is one of the premier sessions with respect to exposure to fire service issues and new technology.  Commissioner Struble and I were scheduled to attend last year, but had to cancel due to schedule conflicts.  If any Commissioners are interested, we should begin to make plans to attend now.

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 28

          Recruits ........  6         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 14

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 24

C.  GENERAL

The breakfast meeting with the Seratoma Club was very beneficial.  This group is very much in support of the Volunteer Fire Department and the Emergency Service District.  There was much discussion about the City becoming a primary 9-1-1 answering point; and, it was not supportive of the move.  I assured those present that the City had committed to re-join the original system as soon as problems in Austin were addressed.

*****

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service    Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

Brush Truck 3 has been completed and is in service.  It was placed on line for the July 4th weekend and saw some action in Wells Branch that night.  The electrical system on the truck is typical 24-volt military.  This has caused some problems with respect to replacement parts and the added 12-volt lighting.  

We will demonstrate this truck at the Commissioners Meeting on July 13th.

EQUIPMENT:

The radio repeater system is on-line and functioning very well.  As anticipated, coverage is excellent.  We are now able to talk from one end of the District to the other using hand-held radios.  

Self-contained breathing apparatus ordered under the Master Lease have arrived.  We will be fitting each firefighter with his/her individual face piece this week.  Once all firefighters have their face piece, we will place the new air packs into service.

Much of the equipment that is ordered is beginning to arrive.  We should complete the ordering process within the next two weeks for the equipment which needs to be paid for by the District.  These items are those which we need to seek reimbursement from Bank One.  Once equipment has been paid for and checks clear our bank, we will be able to submit for reimbursement from Bank One.

Once new equipment is in place, we will prepare a listing of salvage items, (ie. old air packs, etc.), and suggestions for disposal.  There may be some revenues realized from this equipment.

ALARM INFORMATION:

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru JUNE 1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118     61  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     24  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     53  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     25  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire          23     22     23     24     16     29      7   |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    506  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105     54  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371    730  |

|============================================================================|

|##PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

Present alarm volume remains higher than that of last year at this time.  The current call total is 14.1% higher than through June 1994.  The July 4th weekend beginning on Friday night June 30 until the morning of July 5th, was very busy with 23 alarms being answered.  This was in spite of the fact that grass fires were only a nominal factor, (3 of 23 total alarms). 

TRAINING:

The group of students attending the Municipal Firemen Training School at Texas A & M University will be leaving July 23rd.  I will be joining them for the week also, as I will instruct a class on Fire Service Management during the week-long school.  Once again, I strongly encourage the Commissioners to spend a day at College Station to see first hand how this school is conducted.  If there is interest, I will be glad to make the arrangements.  The best day for this is  probably on Wednesday, July 26, 1995.          

The announcement for the International Fire Chief’s Conference has been released.  I am making plans to attend and will be glad to make plans for any Commissioner also.  This is scheduled for September 9 - 13, 1995, and will be held in Louisville, KY.

John Pfluger has asked that we provide a concept drawing for the Training Facility.  The group he has approached is interested in selling the requested 5 acres, but would like to know what we plan to build or do with the land.  

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

The Rural Fire Advisory Council will meet in Austin July 13 - 14th, to recap the Legislative Session and go over changes that will affect volunteer fire departments in the state.   The session should prove to be very informative as we look at new laws passed.

I recently met with representatives from Austin EMS and several of the County Fire Chiefs.  We discussed the new Standards of Care which will be implemented by Austin.  This seems to be the first step in identification of expectations for care at all levels, beginning with our First Responders.  The document appears to be well thought out and is presented very nicely.  During the coming 6-weeks, it will be presented to all affected County groups.

The County Chiefs will meet on July 17th.  This meeting will be hosted by Joe Gesselman, Executive Director of Transportation and Natural Resources.  This is the management group under which Emergency Services has been placed in the County, following the recent re-organization.

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 28

          Recruits ........  6         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 14

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 24

C.  GENERAL

Copies of the Five-Year Plan have been made available to all Volunteers.  The general membership voted to fully endorse the Plan at its last business meeting.  Volunteers have also formed a Public Relations Committee to aid the District in informing the public about the Bond Election.  This Committee will prepare a uniform program and present it to interested citizen groups.

Gilleland Press has made a proposal for a District Newsletter.  The proposal is included in your packet.  Commissioner Acevedo should also bring a proposal from another individual to the meeting on July 13th.

Some rough figures were presented regarding a training building to be built at the Central Station  in response to Commissioner Howe’s request at the Planning Conference.  These figures are very rough and I am holding them in consideration of progress being made on a permanent training facility site.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service    Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

All apparatus are on line in full service.  We have been moving a brush truck to Station 2 each day due to increased fire danger for brush fires.

EQUIPMENT:

New equipment ordered under the Master Lease continues to arrive.  We have completed sizing for air masks and nomex jumpsuits for the volunteers.  We hope to receive this equipment in short order.

ALARM INFORMATION:

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru JULY 1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118     73  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     27  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     64  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     25  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29     12  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    593  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105     65  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371    859  |

|============================================================================|

|##PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

The recent rain resulting from the tropical depression that swept the area came at just the right time to curtail grass and brush fires.  However, the Fire Danger Rating has continued to climb since that time.

TRAINING:

The group of students attending the Municipal Firemen Training School at Texas A & M University have all returned.  Most of the students seemed to enjoy the training and benefit from the time spent at the school.  Training of this quality simply cannot be duplicated elsewhere.  The money spent on this effort is well placed.

We have two students enrolled in a Swift Water Rescue Technician class to be held later this month.  Additional classes are scheduled for later in the fall of the year.  Hopefully we will get more to attend these classes.

A copy of the conceptual plan for  the District’s Training Facility is attached.  This was developed in response to a request from John Pfluger to provide prospective land sellers with a concept drawing.  Commissioner Acevedo and I worked on the plan and are very proud of the way it looks at this point.

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Austin EMS has sent an advisory that details ground ambulances may be curtailed if Starflight makes the mission.  This is of great concern to me in the event that the patient has to be transported to a landing zone for the helicopter that is more than walking distance.

We are not equipped to transport patients and I refuse to transport a patient in the back of a pickup truck as was done recently in the Hudson Bend area, simply because a ground ambulance was not sent.  I think that such transports should be made only under the most unusual of circumstances.  There are two many questions that are unanswered at this point.

County Fire Chiefs will meet on August 14th at Lago Vista.  At this meeting a review of draft by-laws will be conducted.  We hope that this will formalize the organization.

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 28

          Recruits ........  6         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 14

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 24

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service    Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

All apparatus are on line in full service.  We continue to move a brush truck to Station 2 each day due to increased fire danger for brush fires.  In the last week, we have seen several days with relative humidity at or less than 30%.  This greatly increases the chance of a severe grass/brush fire.

EQUIPMENT:

New self-contained breathing apparatus have been placed into service, along with individual facepieces for each firefighter.  These were put to good use this last weekend with two structure fires in Wells Branch; one on Friday afternoon, and one late Sunday night.

Nomex jumpsuits have been issued to almost all volunteer firefighters.  Some are on back order and will be issued as soon as they arrive.

All personnel seem to be genuinely pleased with new equipment issued to them.  There seems to be a great deal of pride in the equipment and clothing they have been issued.

ALARM INFORMATION:

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru September 1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118    101  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     34  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     81  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     31  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29     28  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    784  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105     85  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371  1,144  |

|============================================================================|

|## PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

The storm that swept through the City of Pflugerville on September 7th, caused a large number of emergency calls ranging from power lines down to structure fires.  A total number of calls answered that night is not actually available since we responded to a number of calls without issuing call slips.   We do know that over 20 calls were logged in officially, that were directly related to the storm.

TRAINING:

Three additional firefighters have been sent to Swift Water Rescue Technician class.  This brings the total to five firefighters who have recently attained certification as Swift Water Rescue Tech I.

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

A Review Board is pending receipt of statements regarding an accident with one of the volunteers responding to a fire.  On Friday, October 6th, the Support Van was involved in a collision at Heatherwilde and FM 1825 while responding to the house fire on Alex Ave in Wells Branch.  Fortunately no one was injured and the van only sustained minor damage.  We conduct an accident review board.  Until that review, the driver of the van has had his driving privileges suspended.

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 28

          Recruits ........  6         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 14

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 24

*****

Volunteer Firefighters and I have been making presentations to neighborhood and civic groups regarding the upcoming Bond Election.  For the most part, there has been a large favorable response.  We trust that the community has been saturated with information so that an informed vote will be made.

*****

Open House and Public Demonstrations are scheduled for October 12th at the Central Fire Station.  This is scheduled to begin at 6:30 pm.  Hopefully this will not conflict with the Commissioners Meeting.  Commissioners might find it interesting to tour the demonstrations following the meeting.

Another Open House is scheduled for October 19th at Wells Branch, Station 2.

*****

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service    Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

EQUIPMENT:

The air compressor for the breathing air system has been delivered.  It will be installed in Station 2.  We have to first install a transformer to convert power at the unit which requires three phase electricity.  The Station does not have three phase service, nor is it available at the service pole.

All equipment has now been received that was ordered against the master lease plan.  Arrangements are being made to get billing coordinated for draws at Bank One by the vendors; and, to get bills paid here so that the District can be reimbursed for its expenses.

The final objective under the master lease plan is the purchase of the Brush Trucks.  The newly formed Truck Committee is working on this project in conjunction with specifications for the Engines to be purchased as a part of the bond package.

ALARM INFORMATION:

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru October 1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118    109  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     40  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     90  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     34  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29     31  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    893  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105     93  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371  1,290  |

|============================================================================|

|## PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

The month of October has been one of the busiest months on record.  Impact of call volume would be amplified if public service calls for Fire Prevention Week had been included.  This is the first year that call slips were not issued for public service calls to schools, child-care facilities, and other establishments that received FPW contact.

TRAINING:

New members taken into volunteer service will receive introductory classes in support roles until they can be started in a Recruit Class.  We plan to participate in a Countywide Recruit Class.  This will be the first ever County based recruit class.  The intention is to relieve individual departments of responsibility for the repetitive training of basic classes.  All departments will participate to train new recruits.

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

The Review Board convened to review an accident which occurred on October 6th, while the Support Van was responding to a structure fire, has presented its recommendations.   The driver will have to be re-trained in emergency vehicle operations.  Additionally, the Board has determined that all drivers need to have their knowledge of policy reinforced.

It was determined that the driver of the Support Van did violate Department Policy.  It appears that the driver was ignorant of the policy and upgraded to a “code three” response without authorization.

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 28

          Recruits ........  6         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 14

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 24

*****

I have called a Committee consisting of Company Officers to serve as the Truck Specification Committee for the new engines and brush trucks.   Commissioner Mentzer also sits on the Committee to represent District Commissioners.

The Committee has recommended a basic configuration for the engines using the Quantum Chassis by Pierce, top mount pump panel, and 24” deep rescue type compartments.  The most important feature will be the Class A foam system to be included.  After trips to Phoenix, Arizona and Appleton, Wisconsin, a final determination on the type foam system will be made.  Travel to Phoenix will also allow the Committee the opportunity to discuss Brush Truck specifications with Pneumax Corporation officials.

*****

Since approval of the Bond, much time has been spent in working to define trucks and stations so that costs can be determined.  Information will be shared at the Commissioners Meeting on November 9th.

*****

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - OUT OF SERVICE Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

Brush Truck 3 is out of service due to malfuntion of the clutch.  Due to the age of the truck and the fact that it is FEPP we may have problems locating parts.

EQUIPMENT:

The breathing air system should be placed in service during this week.  All equipment has now been received, including the two additional storage cylinders that had to be ordered. 

Once the air system is in place, we will train all personnel to fill the self-contained breathing apparatus.  Only a few key personnel will be trained and qualified as air technicians to work on apparatus and/or the compressor system.

ALARM INFORMATION:

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru November 1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118    124  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     46  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132     98  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     37  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29     32  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895    980  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105    100  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371  1,417  |

|============================================================================|

|## PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5            |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

The 1,417 alarms represent a 12.6% increase over call volume for the same period in 1994.  We have already exceeded the number of alarms responded to during all of 1994. 

TRAINING:

The County-wide Training Academy for new recruits is still in the planning phase.  Target date for first class is still February 1996.  This meets with our plan to enroll our new recruits in this Academy.

All new personnel will begin an in-house series of classes this week.  These classes are designed to acquaint recruits with terminology and history and organization.  They will be instructed on jobs that can be performed by recruits until they graduate from the Basic Training Academy.

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

The Truck Specification Committee has reached consensus for both the Engine and Brush Truck design.  General concepts are given below:

Brush Trucks: -

- Compressed Air Foam Systems

- Foam Pro 2001 Foam Metering System

- 250 gallon booster tank

- Remote deluge on front grill guard

- Engineered ground sweeps on front fenders

- Equipment compartments to accommodate a greater operational role 

- Chassis to be Ford F-350 or equivalent - 2 wheel drive dual rear

- Diesel powered engine

- Pattern after Phoenix brush units

Due to interest shown by Pierce, they have been given concept design and drawing.  We expect to have drawing returns and rough estimates by mid-January.

Engines: -

- Pierce Quantum type crew cab 6-person cab with flat deck

- 430 hp Detroit Series 60 Diesel

- Rescue type compartmentation (24” deep compartments)

- 1500 gpm single stage pump

- CAFS with Foam Pro 2001 Foam System to be plumbed to 

deluge, both speed lays, and one 2 1/2” rear discharge

Full specification package has been written and will be available for Commissioners’ review at the meeting on December 14th.

*****

We have received a copy of the staffing guide proposed by Austin Fire Department during times of disaster.  This is a result of the storm last September during which volunteer engines were used to supplement AFD.

The concept is to formalize a mechanism that yields mutual aid to Austin.  Until this point, County Departments have freely used AFD for mutual aid, but little thought was given to need that Austin may have.

This is a major step in recognition that all of us will someday require help from our neighbors; no matter how big we are!

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 26

          Recruits ........ 10         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 19

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 27

*****

A change to the Pension Program will be presented at the meeting.  As discussed in the last Commissioners Meeting, a change to Principle Financial Group is suggested.  We would name Commissioner Struble and Commissioner Mentzer as trustee for the Pension system.  

An 8% contribution to the pension plan is proposed, rather than 10% as previously committed.  This would allow continuation of life insurance for the Chief’s position, without additional cost to the District.  It would allow the District to offer personal life insurance to permanent employees as an incentive at the end of a certain period of time like 3-years.

Contribution to the pension plan will be set by Commissioners each fiscal year as a part of the budget process.

*****

Commissioner Struble instructed me to obtain information on “Key Man Insurance”, while in the process of studying the pension plan.  This insurance names the District as the beneficiary in the event of the key person’s death.  It allows the District to hire a person to replace me if I should die, without adverse financial impact on the District’s budget.

Included with my report is a quote on $150,000.00 coverage using three different types of insurance.  The middle column quotes a $951.00 annual premium that remains the same.  This allows a level benefit with smaller cash value in the policy.

The first column has an escalating premium and requires qualification by medical exam in year 10 and each year thereafter.  The third column quotes the highest premium, because it builds higher cash values in the policy.

*****

Pieter Sysbesma, Contracts Administrator with the Austin Fire Department and I met last week.  We discussed the alarms responded to by our personnel in the Contract Area.  I supplied him with information from our files for evaluation.

We also discussed the fact that he was in process of calculation on values of the Harris Ridge area for the contract value for the new fiscal year.  His early estimates show that there will be an increase in the value of the contract.  Once the figures are finalized, he will share the information with the District Commissioners.

*****

We will not be able to hire the two full time, (53 hr/week), firefighter positions as planned in the budget by January 1996, as planned in the budget.  Work on truck specification and other special demands have prevented me from developing the personnel policies needed for this.

I hope that once deals for station sites and details for the new trucks are worked out, there will be time to develop the needed policies and procedures.  My personal goal is to spend the month of January working on these items.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - OUT OF SERVICE Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

EQUIPMENT:

The breathing air system is in operation at Station 2.  It has been used to fill air cylinders following a couple of fires.  Department-wide training on use of the system is scheduled for this week.

ALARM INFORMATION:

ALARMS BY TYPE AND YEAR

(Thru December 1995)

 ____________________________________________________________________________

| TYPE OF ALARM               1989   1990   1991   1992   1993   1994   1995 |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| False Alarms                 76     60    101     70     75    118    139  |

| Structure Fires              36     37     37     35     54     37     48  |

| Grass-Brush-Trash           156    147     84     88    132    132    112  |

| Vehicle Fires                31     41     41     38     46     44     39  |

| Misc. Other:  Fire           23     22     23     24     16     29     33  |

| Collisions                   32     37     37     51     31     11      0  |

| Medical Emergency (EMS)*    542    590    577    677    782    895  1,084  |

| Misc. Other: Non-Fire        93    139    121    117     83    105    110  |

|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| TOTALS                      989  1,073  1,021  1,100  1,219  1,371  1,565  |

|============================================================================|

|## PERCENT DIFFERENCE           + 8.5  - 4.9  + 7.7  +10.8  +12.5  +14.1     |

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 

 A copy of the Monthly Detail Report is attached.

The 1,565 alarms represent a 14.15% increase over call volume in 1994.  Not only has call volume increased, the increase has been greater each year for the last several years.  

Emergency Medical Calls continue to increase as a part of the work load.  Presently, EMS calls account for 69.3% of the call volume.  This statistic more than any other is directly related to the increasing number of citizens being served in the District.

TRAINING:

December training was curtailed due to the holidays.  As the new year begins training for all members will continue in earnest.  

An ECA Class is scheduled to begin within the next 45 days.  This class will bring more first responders to the system and will allow necessary continuing education credit for many of the medical personnel.

The Recruit Class has now been set at 10 members.  They are attending weekly classes to introduce them to the procedures and method of operation for our Department.  

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Renewal of the contract with Austin Fire Department for service in the Harris Branch is being completed.  We will invoice Austin Fire Department for $17,904.65, ($36,454,779 property value X .045 and $1,500 for insurance).

*****

We received a check for $3,636.41 for damages to the Support Van from State Farm Insurance.  This is a result of the accident in  October when a civilian driver failed to yield right of way and hit the our van responding to an alarm.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 26

          Recruits ........ 10         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 19

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 26

*****

Assistant Chief Frick who was a part time employee has resigned his employment due to conflict with his personal schedule.  He will continue as a Volunteer with the organization, but will not be able to perform duties previously assigned as a paid employee.

This issue will be considered as a personnel plan is developed to include the approved full time positions.  

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES:

Commissioners’ packets contain data utilized by Travis County and Austin EMS to begin negotiations on the Interlocal Agreement for EMS services in the County.  The bottom line is that Austin EMS states that County accounts for 14 - 17% of the work load of the system and that a like amount of cost would mean County should pay an estimated $2.2 million.

Chiefs May, Smith, Watson, and I have been meeting with County Staff to encourage a more detailed approach to the negotiation.  It is our collective and strong opinion that if we are to pay an outright percentage of the program costs then performance criteria need to be the same.  In other words there must be an improvement in the system if it is to cost more.   

The ultimate answer to the problem is that additional transport units are needed in the system.  The core problem is who supplies these units and how they are to be paid for.

*****

We will meet with Austin EMS management to determine the best solution to our needs for space at Station 2 as we hire full time personnel.  Station 2 is the best location for this staff since it is already set up to accommodate live in staff.  We also need to consider the need for putting trucks in Station, out of the weather.

Preliminary talks indicate that AEMS is willing to park Aid 18 outside and that we can work on making living arrangements agreeable until a move is made in the summer of ‘96.

*****

Bobby Young and Mark Stanford with the Texas Forest Service have agreed to join us for the Annual Awards Dinner, and to help us celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Volunteer Fire Department.  I have asked them to deliver the keynote address for the evening.

*****

Mr. Bohls and I have continued to meet with various individuals in search of a site for Station #4.  We have not found any location that is ideal with respect to price for land in the northwest quadrant.  We continue to look for sites, but it seems as if square foot prices are going to prevail for anything that close to the IH 35 corridor.

*****

Only one request has been received, to date, for our bid specifications for the new Engines.  We had one manufacturer request an extension on the bid period, which was declined.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - OUT OF SERVICE Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

We have been working with Pneumax Corp. on specifications for the Brush Trucks.  A preliminary drawing has been submitted for these rigs.  We have also received a preliminary quote on the chassis from HGAC.

EQUIPMENT:

A listing of equipment needed for the new engines and brush trucks is being developed by Staff.  This will include hose lines, valves, and other equipment that is not supplied with the truck itself.  Once the list is complete, we will prepare a request for proposals and bids.

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of January, we responded to a total of 164 alarms; 73 were fire alarms and 91 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January is 24.2% greater than that for January of 1995.

The ice storm last week will have a dramatic impact on call volume for February.  On Thursday, February 1, we were stressed to the limit with calls waiting.  The freezing precipitation caused many collisions and accidental injuries.  The entire emergency service system in Travis County was stretched to provide coverage.  

Austin EMS was forced to call for help from Gold Cross, Anderson Ambulance, and other providers.  We got Anderson Ambulance on one collision in our district.  At one point, patients were being transported in fire engines in Austin.  There are a great number of stories about that Thursday.

Due to concerns for call volume and difficulty in responding, we staffed both stations with volunteers on Thursday night.  They responded to all alarms from the station to prevent accidents of first responders making calls from their homes.  Staff took over on Friday when they arrived for their normal duty.  Since then we have been on a more normal schedule.

Call volume data are presented in attached tables for your information and reference.

TRAINING:

The ECA Class is well under way.  We have a number of personnel who are taking part in this training.  It will greatly boost our ability to handle emergency medical calls.

Training Council has recommended that we not delay our Recruit Class any longer.  There are more delays in the start of the County-wide Recruit Training.  We will conduct the class in house, utilizing our own instructors.

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Travis County Commissioners have been informed that $1.7 Million are needed to fund the ILA with Austin EMS.  This will certainly provide cause to examine how transport of patients will be done in the future.

*****

Protocols are being developed to allow higher levels of care by First Responders, other than simple basic life support measures.  This and other changes are extension of the premise that prompted the use of defibrillators in the County.  We will establish a committee to review the Standards of Care and to recommend the level of service we would want to achieve.  

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 26

          Recruits ........ 10         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 19

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 26

*****

Much time has been devoted to development of an Employee Handbook/Policy and a proposed Staffing Plan.  These two are presented to Commissioners as a part of the Meeting Packets for the regular Business Meeting.  

Both of these documents are intended to provide guidelines for staff development and policy protocols as we move toward staff coverage around the clock.  The difficulty in dealing with these issues are the incorporation of Full-time and Part-time Certified Firefighters and Volunteers while maintaining compliance with Fair Labor Standards, Texas Commission on Fire Protection, and simple good management practices.

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES:

Mr. Bohls and I have continued to discuss possible sites for Fire Station #4.  He has been doing a lot of work in attempting to locate an acceptable site.  One thing that is really obvious is that land prices are being driven by the development in the area.  Most prices in the desired area are being determined by the square foot.

*****

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - OUT OF SERVICE Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - OUT OF SERVICE Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

*****

The engine on Brush Truck 3 failed this last month.  This is one of the FEPP military trucks we have from the Texas Forest Service.  The unit was an excellent brush rig and represented a real loss to our firefighting capability.  Mark Stanford with the Texas Forest Service has arranged for a replacement of the 2 1/2-ton chassis.  Several of the volunteers have worked each night and all weekend since the truck arrived last Tuesday; and, the truck is actually ready to pump water this morning, if we need it.   

*****

Work on Tanker 1 is proceeding.  Emergency repairs were approved at the Commissioners Special Meeting in February.  It does not appear that we will need to replace the engine.  We are having the truck gone over completely while its out of service to make sure essential items like clutch, transmission, and brakes are sound.

*****

Chassis for the Brush Trucks on order through HGAC.  Pneumax Corp. is working on the body/pump modules to make sure there is little delay in construction once the chassis for each unit arrives.

*****

The new manpower van was ordered the week of February 12th.  That means it should be ready within 4 - 6 weeks.  Once we receive it, we will have lettering and striping applied at the shop in Round Rock.

EQUIPMENT:

One of the power units for the Hurst Tool, (Jaws-of-Life), has been sent to the dealer for repairs.  The pressure relief valve was not holding and did not allow the unit to develop full pressure to the tool.  There is a 2-day turn around for repairs from Hurst.  The tool should be in service again by the end of the week.

We are having staff prepare more cribbing and blocking material for each engine.  A rescue call this last week pointed the need for additional cribbing material.  We had a very difficult extrication of a 16-year old from her wrecked pick-up truck one evening this last week.  (Extrication was successful and injuries to the young girl were minimal in consideration of the damage to her vehicle).

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of February, we responded to a total of 177 alarms; 80 were fire alarms and 97 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - February is 69.7% greater than that for same period in 1995.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

The ECA Class is nearing completion.  Once the students have completed, they will have to test before the Texas Department of Health.  Instructors tell me that most have done well in the class and we should see a high success rate.

A Recruit Training Class has begun for the current recruits we have.  This class is being conducted in-house, as reported previously.  We were unable to detain our personnel any longer to wait on the County-wide class formation.  We will continue to participate at the County level to make sure this is successful.

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Captain Cherry, (B-shift) is on light duty because of a shoulder injury.  He will be working on the new reporting software.  We hope to place this software into full service before long.  The intention is to have reports made at each station via the computer network, cutting down on the time personnel have to spend at Central Station writing reports.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 26

          Recruits ........ 10         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 19

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 26

*****

Posting of the vacancies for full-time firefighters will close on March 15th.  We have had a number of individuals turn in applications for the positions.  the selection process will include a written test from the IFSTA Essentials Manual, a physical fitness measure in 5 skill areas, and an oral interview before a panel.   We anticipate having personnel on board as soon as possible after April 1st.  The plan is to have these firefighters work only daylight shifts during the first two weeks.  This will give them an introduction to all current staff and primary methods of operation.

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES:

We have received no official information from the Engineering Company regarding the Station 4 site.  However, the site seems to be a good choice, (more so each day), with respect to even more development being started inside the Loop this week.  The newest section of Windemere is not even filled, and new streets were started this week between that development and the west side of the Loop.

*****

An invitation to participate in a Fire Prevention Program that utilizes a robotic car and animal is included in the Commissioners’ packet this month.  The proposal is that four departments/districts would share the cost of Flashy the Dog and his fire truck.  The unit is extremely attractive to young folks.  I have seen the unit used before.  Cost to our District would be slightly less than $2,000.00 which makes the offer attractive.  The four Districts proposed are all good relatives of ours and we would certainly be able to work out use details.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service    Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service    Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service

STATION 2:

Engine 2 - In Service

*****

This is the first time in many months that the entire fleet has been available for service.  Tanker 1 was brought back on line last week.  Brush Truck 3 was completed by the volunteers two weeks ago.  It has already been used on several calls.                                           

*****

We expect to take delivery of the new manpower van later this week.  Once we receive it, we will schedule it for the lettering and stripe job.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

The Hurst Dealer sent a technician to flush all hydraulic rescue equipment.  The material drained from our equipment in no way resembled hydraulic fluid.  Consideration is being given to an annual service by the factory representative to prevent this situation in the future.                                    

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of March, we responded to a total of 156 alarms; 61 were fire alarms and 95 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - March is 39.2% greater than that for same period in 1995.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

The ECA Class has been completed.  This will add to the ranks of EMS First Responders, once they have completed their testing for the Texas Department of Health.                                                                   

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

It is anticipated that the small amount of rainfall this last week should slow the rate of spread for area brush fires.  However, the small amount of rain coupled with the fact that fuel loads are already critical will spell little relief in actual number of responses we can expect.  Conditions all across the State have not improved significantly.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 26

          Recruits ........ 10         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 19

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  2  

                                Part-time ............ 26

*****

Three firefighters have been hired to fill the full-time positions.  They will begin their duties on April 15th.  This marks another major milestone for the District as service delivery takes on a new dimension.

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES:

Plans for Station 3 have been submitted and are currently placed for bid.  A pre-bid meeting is scheduled for April 10th; and, bid opening is scheduled for April 18th. 

*****

Incorporation of Compensated Volunteers into the staff pattern to provide two personnel on duty 24-hours a day is being worked on presently.  We anticipate that this concept will be implemented by April 29th, when full-time personnel begin their 24-hour shifts.  Much confusion and work is expected as we work out schedule details that best suit all affected personnel.

*****

We will host a dinner for the National Volunteer Fire Council on April 12th.  Pflugerville Volunteer Fire Department and the Texas State Firemen and Fire Marshals Association are the official co-host for the NVFC meeting scheduled for April 13th.  This is a real honor for the Department as this is only the second time this organization has met in Texas.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Tanker 1 - OUT OF SERVICE Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service    Support 1  - In Service

STATION 2:

Brush 2  - In Service

Engine 2 - In Service

*****

Brush Truck 2 has been re-assigned to Station 2.  It is utilized by the Company on duty at nights for first response.  This also allows for full-time housing of the Brush Truck back at its original home station.  The ambulance has been moved outside as previously reported.      

*****

Last month it was reported that all apparatus were repaired and in service.  We discovered that the repair shop doing work on Tanker 1 missed the fact that the truck had a blown head gasket that resulted in both heads on the engine being cracked.  Our in-house mechanic is replacing the heads now.  He is not optimistic about the life of the engine as a whole.  

*****

I have attached a graphic representation of the District’s Fleet with respect to anticipated lifespan.  This document will become a reference during the Planning Conference, as we analyze the need for replacement and additional vehicles.

*****

Chassis for the new Brush Trucks, (Rapid Response Truck), were delivered to Pneumax Corporation on April 29, 1996.  Work began immediately and officials at Pneumax are optimistic about being able to return the apparatus in about 30-days.  This is 2 - 6 weeks sooner than planned.

*****

Pierce will be ready for a pre-paint inspection of the new Engines in the period around June 15th.  This would be an excellent opportunity for one or more of the District Commissioners to travel to Pierce to study building of Engines and take a look at why we have been so adamant about Pierce quality.  I am told that Pierce has now placed several aerial devices on Quantum chassis which is the chassis we selected for our engines.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

Under separate cover, Commissioners are provided with a report on bid prices for equipment and hose for the new apparatus.  A decision needs to be made very quickly on ordering the equipment so as to not delay the placement of apparatus in service.                                                               

*****

Equipment that has been ordered and received is currently being stored in a storage facility on FM 685.  The owner of the facility is providing us with a storage facility at no charge.  This will be most helpful as we receive more equipment with little space for storage.

*****

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of April, we responded to a total of 158 alarms; 46 were fire alarms and 112 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - April is 33.9% greater than that for same period in 1995.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

The Recruit Class currently being conducted is in its last weeks of operation.  Once the curriculum is completed, a live burn date will be set, probably at Wimberly.  Commissioners may wish to travel and review this operation in consideration of opening our own training facility.  If there is an interest in Commissioners doing this, please let me know so we can coordinate with the Training Council and arrange the trip.

*****

We participated in a training event with Austin Fire Department on May 2nd.  This event was to practice the deployment of wildland hose packs and the utilization of tankers and dump tanks.  We sent our 5000-gallon Tanker 2 and a crew of personnel.  It was reported that firefighters with AFD were greatly impressed with the mammoth tanker and its capability.

*****

Applications for the municipal fire school at Texas A & M will be reviewed by

the Training Council in the near future.  This annual event is the highlight of the year with respect to training for the volunteers.  As usual, I have been invited as a guest instructor for the Officer Development Curriculum by the Engineering Extension Service.

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Hazardous Material Response is a major concern of the Austin-Travis County Local Emergency Planning Committee, (LEPC).  I have been involved with the LEPC for several years, representing Travis County Firefighters.  In recent months there has been a change in focus from the capability of response in just Austin, to looking at the problem on a county-wide basis.  Generally, the LEPC was surprised and now concerned to learn that response outside Austin City Limits is severely limited.

The LEPC wants to shore up response capability and better serve all citizens of Travis County by providing a better framework for Haz Mat Response.  Plans are under way to develop a response plan that will utilize a County-wide if not Regional Response Team Concept.  Travis County Chiefs’ Association will work closely with the County Emergency Management Office on this project.  Chief May, (Westlake), and I are working together on this project.

*****

  A uniform color scheme for helmets across the County is being considered by the County Chiefs.  This is based on a recommendation that a uniform color scheme would allow command staff at major operations to more easily recognize personnel ranks.  The idea was formulated at a major fire last month on Hwy 290 with Austin Fire Department, Westlake, Manor, Fire Control, Cedar Park and our Department.  This concept is another step in setting uniform protocols that will enable all departments in the county to work more efficiently with one another.

*****

  The City of Bastrop conducted a wide area disaster drill on April 24th.  I was asked to conduct the review and critique of the Fire Department response.  It was an interesting event that was conducted in real time with a very realistic scenario.  The whole operation tested the ability of City Management, School District Administration, Public Works, the Police and Fire Departments, and LCRA.  I believe all tested entities learned from the drill and it provided me with an opportunity to consider our situation with respect to a major disaster response.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 23

          Recruits ........ 10         EMS ..................  6

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 24

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  4  

                                Part-time ............ 21

*****

New full-time firefighters have been placed on regular duty status.  Around the clock coverage began on April 29th.  As planned, night time response consists of the District’s full-time firefighter and a Compensated Volunteer from PVFD.  This same response is carried throughout the weekend.  A great deal of excitement is being expressed about the concept.

Although call volume seems to have taken a turn downward in the last three weeks since we hired these personnel, there is a great deal of comfort, (at least in this Chief Officer’s mind), knowing that response will be met with more than the long pregnant silence following a toned alarm.  I am sure the assigned duty officers will also be glad to recognize that their response will be backed up by the new Company.

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS:

The Department hosted a social event for the National Volunteer Fire Council on April 12th.  This event saw approximately 150 - 200 fire service personnel from across the Country.  It was certainly a great honor for us to host this event since this was only the second time this group has come to Texas to meet.

*****

Commissioners should have received an invitation to a dinner on May 17th, honoring Bruce Miles.  Mr. Miles has long been a great supporter of the fire service in Texas and his retirement will leave a big hole to fill.  Every fire department in Texas has been asked to send representatives to the dinner.  Additionally, we expect a fair representation from the Texas Legislature, as well as a number of other dignitaries. 

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service    Support 1  - In Service

STATION 2:

Brush 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

*****

All vehicles in the District Fleet are currently in service.  We have just completed what we hope is the final repair to Tanker 1 with the replacement of engine heads, exhaust manifold, and numerous other items that failed on the truck.  Repairs to this truck have certainly caused a great deal of problems.

*****

Reports from Pneumax Corporation about the new Brush Trucks are promising.  We still expect to have these trucks by the end of June.

*****

Captain Wilks, Lieutenant Koehn, and I traveled to Wisconsin to inspect progress on production of the new Quantum Engines.  All is proceeding well with this project.  We were able to meet with individuals who are responsible for mounting the CAF system and had long and educational conversations with them.  Some minor changes were requested in the compartments on the body.  These changes will cause additional and more useful shelving to be installed.  We also requested the installation of a map box inside the cab of the truck to eliminate the traditional books all over the place.  These changes were minor and should have little to no impact on final price of the truck.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

“Loose Equipment”, (hose, nozzles, appliances, etc.), have all been ordered from Casco Industries.  We expect to begin delivery of these items this week.  Plans are to log all equipment into the inventory system and then store it in a secure area until the trucks arrive.  We hope to have all equipment here ready to load on the trucks as they arrive.  We do not wish to delay placing trucks into service while waiting on delivery of small equipment.

*****

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of May, we responded to a total of 141 alarms; 51 were fire alarms and  90 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - May is 32.9% greater than that for same period in 1995.

The recent rains have impacted the number of grass fires.  While the relief is welcome, this will only add to the problem with additional loading to an already heavy fuel load for the summer.  The drought has already had a long term effect in our business that will be felt well into next spring.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

The Recruit Class is progressing very well.  Some of the class have been cleared to begin responding to emergencies in a support role.  In fact, two of the cadets were used recently at a structure fire caused by a lightning strike.  We are very excited about this class of cadets.

*****

We currently have six applicants for the Municipal Fire School at Texas A & M.  This annual event will be held the last week of July.  I will be instructing one of the Officer Development Courses as in years past.  We anticipate that our guest from England will also be involved in the school.  I contacted the director of the school and they are willing to help us develop a meaningful curriculum for the individual.  The school will also “help” us with tuition for the week.

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

I recently attended a meeting of the Denton County Fire Chiefs.  I was asked to speak to them regarding organization and management of fire and emergency services at the County level.  This is the result of the Travis County Task Force that we fielded for six weeks during the fire siege in North Texas, earlier this year.  There was considerable interest in the operations at the District, (ESD), level, and the partnerships we have with the City of Austin and other Districts in the County.  The utilization of resources for all emergencies, not just wildfire, was also of particular interest.

I have been asked to deliver a similar lecture later this month in Mineral Wells to the Parker County Fire Departments.  This group is primarily interested in the formation, or conversion to Emergency Service Districts.  This group seeks to improve on the ability to provide emergency services to Parker County.

*****

  Beginning this date, each Department or District is being asked to report the details of all alarms to the Office of Emergency Management.  This reporting is designed to develop the data necessary to properly represent needs of Travis County in the event of a major fire season this summer.  There are a number of other benefits the reporting will reveals such as the study of fire occurrence by location and time. 

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 23

          Recruits ........ 10         EMS ..................  6

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 24

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  4  

                                Part-time ............ 21

*****

Utilization of compensated volunteers in conjunction with the District’s full- time personnel has gotten off to a great start.  In fact, there are few if any shifts left open for the remainder of the year.  We will need to evaluate limitation of the number of shifts taken by certain individuals.  It is our wish to give all eligible personnel equal chance at working within this framework.

*****

Activity Report will be delivered verbally due constraints on time and the holiday period which falls during this period.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Brush 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 2 - In Service    Support 1  - In Service

STATION 2:

Brush 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

*****

All new apparatus have been delivered to the Central Station, where they will be housed until placement into service.  We plan to have all trucks on line by August 15th, allowing for training of personnel on each apparatus type.

Clarence Grady from Pneumax Corp. will be conducting specialized training on the Engines August 3 - 4, 1996.  There will be an operations class as well as class on maintenance of the CAF system for each apparatus.

*****

A number of personnel have been introduced to the new Squads and their operation.  In fact, one was used on a barn fire during its first week in the District.  This fire occurred while a technician from Pneumax was here, so we got the opportunity to do some live fire, hands-on training.  Use of foam has always impressed us, but with the addition of compressed air, there was an unbelievable difference.

*****

District Commissioners will soon need to decide the fate of Brush Truck 2.  It’s service use to the District is limited, at best, now.  Brush Truck 1 will become a budget consideration according to results of the Five Year Planning Conference.  (It was recommended that this truck be stripped to serve as an off-road brush apparatus).

*****

EQUIPMENT:

“Loose Equipment”, (hose, nozzles, appliances, etc.), have all been received from Casco Industries.  The long process of processing for inventory and pressure checking on hose lines is well under way.  It is our intention that trucks not be outfitted unless all loose equipment is inventoried.  We do not wish to strip the truck to inventory equipment at a later time.

Some items are in shipment that are assigned to the Engines.  These include the Positive Pressure Fans, Butterfly Valves, and other equipment that was ordered along with Engines.  

*****

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of July, we responded to a total of 145 alarms; 40 were fire alarms and 105 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - July is 29.0% greater than that for same period in 1995.

The July 4th Holiday could probably be recorded as the “Best” we have seen in the last decade.  No responses to grass fires or other fireworks related alarms were made.  Media efforts and public respect for the current drought situation certainly played a role in this.  The Fireworks Industry’s removal of stick rockets and missiles was also a contributing factor.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

The Recruit Class has completed its training cycle with live fire training at Wimberly.  This group of firefighters has shown a lot of determination and we are proud to welcome them into the ranks.

*****

Six firefighters and I survived another year at the Municipal Fire School at Texas A & M.  Personnel who received training at this year’s school will be expected to share their new found knowledge and skills with the rest of the Department.  

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Martin Walters, (“Wal”), our exchange firefighter from England has blended into the routine very well.  It seems he takes the practical jokes as well as the information exchange equally well.  There has been a learning process on both halves, with us learning as much or more than him.  He has been a delight to have around the station.

Captain Gary Wilks will be leaving for England on August 17th to complete the exchange program.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 23

          Recruits ........ 10         EMS ..................  6

          Regulars ........ 43         Combination .......... 24

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  4  

                                Part-time ............ 21

*****

We are currently studying a means to equalize the utilization of compensated volunteers.  We have found that some firefighters are “getting” a disproportionate share of shifts by signing up early.  Details of a new system will be complete by the end of August.

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS:

Cliff Avery has been working to develop the District’s Newsletter.  He has made several visits to the District’s Office to collect information and photographs.  Avery reports that he should have a rough layout very soon.

*****

On July 30th, I was invited to address a delegation from Washington D.C. regarding fire suppression needs in Texas; and, the mechanisms employed by Travis County in responding to major emergencies.  The delegation was composed of representatives from:

U.S. Forest Service Alaska Fire Chiefs’ Assoc.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) USDA - Forest Service

National Volunteer Fire Council National Forests of Texas

Alaska Division of Forestry

This meeting is the result of curtailment of federal support in major fire incidents across the nation.  That brings greater pressure on local resources to combat major fires.  The Austin-Travis County Task Force that was fielded for six weeks, during the first three months of the year has captured the attention of authorities at all levels.

Another major effect of this meeting is the hope to convince Congress that money spent up front is a better investment than that spent after the disaster.  This premise is certainly the basis for FEMA’s new approach to handling disasters in the nation.  (So now our efforts have received national attention).

*****

Some efforts have been expended with respect to budget formulation.  The Budget Review and Proposal for Revision to FY ‘96 Budget have certainly set the stage for preparation of the FY ‘97 Budget.

We are already aware of impact of certain aspects on needs identified in the Five-Year Planning Meeting.  Reports from the Central Appraisal District shows TCESD No. 2 to be in a favorable position with respect to a District appraisal of more than $1.4 billion.

Change of Depositories has resulted in acquisition of a new computer program for bookkeeping.  We have begun to implement the system for the remainder of the fiscal year.  At the same time, a new chart of accounts is being formulated to better meet the needs of the program.  There will also need to be an update to the chart of accounts as we begin the budget process for FY ‘97.

We look forward to the process as a Budget Committee is appointed.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Squad 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 1  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Manpower 1 - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service   

Tanker 2 - In Service  

Reserved:   ‘87 Arrow Engine

‘94 Dash Engine

STATION 2:

Squad 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

*****

New Squad Trucks and Engines have been placed into service.  Squad 2 from Station 2 is seeing a lot of service since it is utilized by the crew on duty at night.  Reports are that the truck performs very well.  We have utilized it in a few fire situations.  The Engines have not yet seen action at a fire scene.

The older Engines have been scheduled to have CAF Systems installed beginning the end of September.  Plans are to take one truck to Arizona the last week of September.  When it is complete, we will exchange it with the other Engine so as to only take one truck out of service at a time.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

As new trucks are being utilized, a short list of appliances and tools is being developed to complete the equipment compliment needed for each truck.  I expect to see this process completed in the next two weeks.

*****

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of August, we responded to a total of 153 alarms; 47 were fire alarms and 106 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - August is 38.6% greater than that for same period in 1995.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

The Training Council and EMS Company will be conducting a special meeting to discuss training for First Responders with respect upgraded requirements and the new Department of Transportation curriculum.  I have instructed this group to not anticipate support for ECA training beyond FY ‘97; and, that our focus needs to be having the minimal qualification for First Responders at the EMT level.

*****

We are planning to take one of the new Quantum Engines to Wimberly to conduct some live fire training at the facility there.  We want to study foam applications in a structure fire setting.  This will be used to format operational protocols for these Engines.

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Captain Gary Wilks has been in England for the last three weeks.  He extended the two-week exchange into three weeks in order to see a little more of the country on his own.  We expect him to return to duty next week filled with stories.  I do anticipate that there will be some knowledge exchange also.

*****

The International Fire Chiefs Conference was an excellent event as usual.  I am not sure how many actually attended, but I do know that there were 38 countries represented.  Workshops that I attended were quite interesting and informative.  I have several tapes of other sessions that were of interest, but I couldn’t attend because of schedules.  Fire Department based EMS was a topic of considerable attention.  I am listening to these tapes as I find time and have discovered a number of very interesting facts.

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 14

          Recruits ........  4         EMS ..................  6

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 25

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  5  

                                Part-time ............ 19

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS:

We have received several good comments regarding the District’s Newsletter.  Many people have expressed appreciation for us letting them know what is going on and that articles were very informative to them.        

*****

Volunteers are working on a flyer to be distributed in the Blackhawk Neighborhood on September 15th.  The purpose of this will be to increase interest in Station 3 and to recruit volunteers from the area.  We are planning to have an Open House in conjunction with Fire Prevention Week at Station 3, (hopefully around October 15th).

Commissioners may wish to tie this to a ribbon cutting ceremony too.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Squad 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 1  - In Service Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 2  - In Service Manpower 1 - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service   

Tanker 2 - In Service  

Reserved:   ‘87 Arrow Engine -- OUT OF SERVICE

‘94 Dash Engine

STATION 2:

Squad 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

*****

The ‘87 Pierce Arrow was taken to Arizona on September 27th for installation of the CAF system.  We anticipate that it will be there for approximately 30-days.  When complete, we will take the ‘94 Dash and return the Arrow to service.

The Dash will be placed for service out of Station 3 after dedication of the Station on October 15th.  This engine will probably be assigned to Station 3 even after the installation of CAFS.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

An order has been placed for appliances and nozzles to complete the equipment compliment for new trucks.  This should complete the process other than miscellaneous minor needs that may be identified in the future.

*****

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of September we responded to a total of 151 alarms; 54 were fire alarms and 97 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - September is 23.4% greater than that for same period in 1995.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

Monthly training schedules have been changed based on a suggestion by the Company Officers to afford more time to EMS training and continuing education.  EMS training will be conducted on the second Thursday of each month, and fire drills and training will be conducted the third and fourth Thursdays.  Company Officers will meet on the first Thursday following the Department’s regular Business Meeting.  This will allow more training time for general membership, but will curtail Company Officers time for advanced classes.

*****

A special class has been scheduled for October 19th, from 10:00am until 2:00pm.  Mark Stanford from the Texas Forest Service will conduct the class dealing with Class A Foam.  The class will be held at the District’s Training Field and includes some live fire demonstration.  Commissioners may find this of interest as we will study the difference foam makes in extinguishing fires.

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Attached to this report is a flyer being distributed throughout the District that calls attention to the planned Open Houses at each Station.  The highlight will be the dedication of Station 3 on October 15th.  We have invited County and local political figures to this event.  The District Office will keep a list of those who RSVP, so Commissioners can be informed prior to the event.

*****

We are currently studying various ways to divide the District with respect to the opening of new fire stations.  This process is very complicated as we try to equally assign response areas and division of labors over Still and Regular Alarms.

I do not wish to have engines racing from one end of the District to the other on every call.  We will be limiting response and actually develop a Second Alarm Response when all Stations are “on line”.

Another facet that we must face is the re-design of alerting system.  Using our current paging system, we are able to do four distinct tones which allows for four separate company areas, but not a sub-alert for fire versus EMS calls.  This has been explained to the Company Officers.

*****

The Volunteers have taken seven new recruits within the last 45-days.  They expect a number of additional recruits following Fire Prevention Week and increased recruiting efforts in the Blackhawk area.  This will cause a sizable recruit training class to be started in the next 45-days.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 15

          Recruits ........  7         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 27

          Probationary ....  0

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  5  

                                Part-time ............ 19

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS:

Proof of the second issue of the District’s “Dispatch”, (newsletter), has been returned for publication.  It should be ready by the Commissioners’ Meeting on October 10th.  It is as attractive and informative as the first issue and I would expect we will again receive very favorable comments.

*****

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Squad 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 1  - SALVAGE Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 2  - RE-FURB Manpower 1 - In Service

Brush 3  - OUT OF SERVICE Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service   

Tanker 2 - OUT OF SERVICE  

Reserve:   ‘87 Arrow Engine -- IN SERVICE

STATION 2:

Squad 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

*****

The ‘94 Pierce Dash was taken to Arizona on October 30th for installation of the CAF system.  Based on the rapid turn around time for the Arrow, we anticipate that the truck will be ready for the return trip in approximately 3-weeks.

The work done on the Arrow was excellent.  In fact, the simplified controls, (as compared to the new Quantums), are much easier to operate.  In the field test conducted October 26th, we found control of water flow to be easier to maintain using manual valves.  The field test accomplished several objectives and is judged to be of great benefit to the Department.

*****

We continue to experience sporadic electrical system problems with the new Squads.  The problem(s) seem to be related to installation of the integrated radios and emergency equipment system.  Currently the lights and siren on the Squad in Station 2 function only periodically.

*****

We have removed the old manpower van from the fleet, sending it back to the Texas Forest Service.  We were able to have the van picked up, as well as the old military 2 1/2 ton hull from last summer.  This helps to clear the used fire truck lot appearance around Central Station.

EQUIPMENT:

Location and inventory of all equipment is proceeding well.  We have been recording all new equipment and processing existing equipment as time permits to bar code all District property.  A computer generated listing is available for inspection purpose and is provided to the District Auditors.

*****

Equipment and furnishings for Station 3 are being located and installed as rapidly as possible.  We are still trying to work around the workers who have details to finish for acceptance of the building.  Overhead doors and the electric controls have been particularly troublesome in recent days.  

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of September we responded to a total of 141 alarms; 37 were fire alarms and 104 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - October is 20.4% greater than that for same period in 1995.  If this statistic remains in this range, it will be the greatest rate of increase in the recent history of the organization.  We can certainly tell the effects of this in the maddening pace of personnel in the organization.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

The special foam class conducted on October 19th was especially good.  Mark Stanford did an outstanding job with lecture on foam applications and the basic of why foam is so effective.  I have charged our Training Council to “BORROW” Stanford’s approach and method of delivery since it was so successful.

*****

On October 26th, we conducted a number of burns in a structure using the Wimberly Fire Training Field.  The purpose of this session was to determine special effects of CAFS on our current strategy and tactics; and, to test the retro-fit of the Pierce Arrow.  Both goals were met and we are very satisfied with the results.  The effect on CAFS in a room fire are impressive at the least.  We experienced fire knockdown with less than 35 gallons of water and minimal side effects.  The engine performed beautifully and was actually easier to operate than the newer Quantums.

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

The District was inspected by the Texas Commission on Fire Protection on October 15 - 16.  Two citations were issued on small items which staff are addressing presently.  One citation was for providing proof of CEU on part-time personnel employed by other fire departments.  The Commission wants us to document training for these personnel as well as our full-time personnel.  The second citation was for documentation of regulator certification protocols within our standard operating procedures.

These issues are minor and for the most part, we received a favorable review by the Commission’s Inspector.  Bunker clothing, breathing apparatus, personnel records and other issues were within acceptable limits.  It is obvious that efforts in the last two years on bunker clothing and breathing apparatus have paid off.

*****

Preliminary work on dividing the district into four response districts has been completed.  We have geographically located all volunteers within these response districts with intention of Company assignments.  The process will reveal personnel weakness and strengths for emergency response.

This process will be available for review at the Planning Conference.  It should give planners the opportunity to formulate a solution to related problems.

*****

Few volunteers were solicited during Fire Prevention Activities in October.  In fact, we will begin the next recruit class with only 5 persons, next month.  Efforts to recruit heavily within the Blackhawk neighborhood were not effective.  We found the neighborhood to be very receptive to the addition of Station 3, but only one person has come forward to volunteer as a firefighter.  This is typical of Texas and America today with families having very limited time and energy to devote to volunteer activities.  

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 15

          Recruits ........  7         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 27

          Probationary ....  0               (Compensated Vols. ..... 14)

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  5  

                                Part-time ............ 19

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS:

Attached to this report is a copy of an article from this weeks issue of the Pflugerville Pflag.  It deals with the same troublesome issue of EMS within Travis County.  This subject is beginning to find its way to the public’s attention.  I would still anticipate the issues to be of prime concern over the next 12 - 18 months.  Unfortunately the issues are still the same, have been, and will continue to be related to the number of ambulances that are available.  

*****

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Squad 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 1  - SALVAGE Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 2  - RE-FURB Manpower 1 - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service    Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service   

Tanker 2 - In Service      

Reserve:   ‘87 Arrow Engine -- IN SERVICE

STATION 2:

Squad 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

*****

The ‘94 Pierce Dash was returned from Arizona on December 8th.  It will be re-loaded with hose and equipment this week and placed into service.  Its official designation will be Engine 3, working from Station 3.                   

*****

The fire body has been removed from the chassis on the ‘79 Ford, (Brush 1).  A CAFS skid unit is being delivered by CASCO for our examination.  I have also gotten a price quote for a unit from Pneumax.  A recommendation will be forthcoming to the Commissioners after evaluation has been completed.

*****

.

EQUIPMENT:

Equipment and furnishings for Station 3 have been placed, except for the telephone and radio alerting system.  We are still waiting for price quotes from Southwestern Bell on the telephone system, to compare to those received from Wil-Tel Communications.                       

The work on the radio alert system from Motorola will not begin until the Company completes the proper installation of radios in the new trucks.  Motorola’s contractors have not been able to complete work to our satisfaction and we have informed them that we will not continue business unless the first work is completed correctly.

*****

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of September we responded to a total of 143 alarms; 47 were fire alarms and 97 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - November is 34.8% greater than that for same period in 1995. 

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

Another training class has begun for recruits.  This class will run into the early months of 1997 because of the holidays.

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Work on dividing the District into four response areas will be expedited now that Station 3 is operational.  Questions related to the number of volunteers living in the response area for Station 3 still remain.

*****

I participated in a meeting conducted by Travis County Emergency Services and Austin EMS to begin “Strategic Planning” for emergency services in Travis County.  This process should begin in earnest shortly after the first of the year.  I still not sure how the big question, (“Who will pay for ambulances that are needed?”), is going to be addressed.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 15

          Recruits ........  7         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 27

          Probationary ....  0               (Compensated Vols. ..... 14)

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  5  

                                Part-time ............ 19

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS:

Draft copies of the Strategic Development Plan for the District have been distributed to all participants at the Conference in San Antonio.  Few return comments have been received at this point.  The comment period ends on December 13th.  Once the period is closed, we will print the final copy for distribution.

*****

I met with Ted Webber, Vice Chairman of the British Fire Services to discuss the Firefighter Exchange Program initiated this last summer.  Both of us are in agreement that the program has great benefit and should be continued.  In fact upon Ted’s suggestion we would like to expand the program to allow two firefighters at a time to be exchanged.

The general plan is to do the exchange in October of 1997.  One firefighter from London and one from Wilshire County, (surrounding London), will be sent here in October.  Our two firefighters would in turn spend one week with the London Fire Department and one week with the Wilshire County Fire Brigade.

The Volunteers financed the exchange this last year.  The District may wish to consider participation in view of training and domestic relations.  

*****

During the month of December a hiring plan to fill the position of Assistant Chief will be developed.  This will incorporate input received at the Planning Conference.  An interview panel will be selected and be comprised of representation from Commissioners, Staff, and Volunteers.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Squad 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 1  - SALVAGE Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 2  - RE-FURB Manpower 1 - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service    Support 1  - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service   

Tanker 2 - OUT OF SERVICE      

Reserve:   ‘87 Arrow Engine -- In Service

STATION 2:

Squad 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

STATION 3:l

Engine 3 - In Service

*****

Truck Committees comprised of Company Officers have been formulated to prepare recommendations and/or specifications for (A) a new Tanker and, (B) re-furbish of Brush Truck 1.  Both groups have been instructed to “fast lane” the project(s) so that we might present recommendations to the District Commissioners in the February Meeting.

*****

Evaluation of the CAFS skid unit from CASCO has shown it to be too small for our needs.  Comparison of its design and price to that of a larger unit design and price does not make us want to recommend it as the unit for Brush Truck 1.

*****

EQUIPMENT:

The telephone system for Station 3 has been ordered and installation is scheduled for January 10th.  Likewise, the radio system for the Station is on order.  Equipment is being ordered through HGAC therefore there will be a delay in getting the alert system on line.

Motorola has succeeded in completion of installation of truck radios that seem to be working correctly.  We are assured that Motorola will not allow the type of problem that we have had to continue.  Their service contractor has been changed to a more reliable firm.

*****

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of December we responded to a total of 162 alarms; 53 were fire alarms and 109 were medical alarms.  The alarm total for January - December is 18.7% greater than that for same period in 1995. 

The holiday period brought its usual quick pace for calls for us.  During the 24-hour period associated with December 31st, we made 10 alarms.  On top of that we started the new year with 5 alarms in the first 4 1/2 hours.  It was challenging at times to ensure available personnel for each alarm. 

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

The small number of personnel in the current Recruit Class have allowed for a faster pace course.  This group will complete their training with the live fire session in Wimberly on February 15th.  There will be only 3 firefighters who will complete this class.

We will use the opportunity of having a small live fire class to involve some of our staff on the burn date.  Our full time firefighters will be taken to Wimberly to do burns and advance their skills with CAFS on structure fires.

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Switch over to the District’s new software “Firehouse” was effected with the beginning of the new year.  This is the software system whose primary function is incident reporting.  It has additional modules including equipment and apparatus maintenance and training records.  We will implement these systems as Staff Officers are able to change over.

Training for personnel in the use of “Firehouse” will be completed by the first week of February.

*****

Company Officers have been addressed about a serious streak of lost equipment and damages to property.  We have several recent incidents of lost equipment issued to personnel and some strange occurrences of damage to District Property.  Each Company Officer will be working closely with their personnel to put a stop to this.  I have pledged to seek the highest punitive action against any person who willfully damages or steals District Property.

*****

A Departmental Newsletter has been re-instituted.  The “Fire Call” will be distributed on a monthly basis to all District and Department personnel.  I am excited at the prospect of having another vehicle of communication in place.  Commissioners should receive their copy in the mail.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 15

          Recruits ........  7         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 27

          Probationary ....  0               (Compensated Vols. ..... 14)

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  5  

                                Part-time ............ 19

*****

Advertisement for the Assistant Chief’s position has been published in the “Info Line”, a monthly issue from the State Firemen’s and Fire Marshals’ Association.  This publication should reach the majority of fire departments across the State.  This was the only publication we were able to secure ad space that allowed us to keep our March 1 hiring target. 

We will run an ad in the Austin Statesman also.

*****

Formal arrangements with Auxiliary Firefighters, (formerly Compensated Volunteers), are being implemented now.  A policy governing the program including a formal application process has been placed into effect.  Each of the personnel will be treated as a District employee while on duty.

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS:

Final copies of the Strategic Development Plan for the District have been prepared and made available to any interested parties.  District Commissioners should receive their copy by time of the January Meeting.

*****

Emergency Services Strategic Planning meetings begin in earnest the week of January 6th.  Announcements state that the three committees, (Emergency Medical Services Panel, Star Flight Panel, and Fire/Emergency Management Panel), will be meeting on a weekly basis.  I will attempt to attend as many of the panel meetings for EMS and Emergency Management as possible.

*****

I have been informed that Austin EMS will vacate quarters at our Station 2 by Monday January 6th.  Once they have moved out, we will need to take stock of furnishings and equipment needed to carry out life and live-in functions at the Station.  Most furnishings belong to AEMS and it appears they will be taking it with them.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Squad 1  - In Service Engine 1   - OUT OF SERVICE

Brush 1  - SALVAGE Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service Manpower 1 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service    Support 1  - In Service

Reserve:   ‘87 Arrow Engine -- In Service

STATION 2:

Squad 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

STATION 3:l

Engine 3 - In Service

Tanker 2 - Reserve Status

*****

Engine 1, (‘96 Quantum), is currently out of service for maintenance and warranty work.  It is in Kaufman, Texas at Truck Specialty for the Pierce warranty work.  We anticipate the Engine to be back on line by the time Commissioners meet.

Some additional warranty work will need to be completed on the other Quantum once the one in Kaufman is returned.  This work will be done in Austin.

*****

The old Brush Truck (‘74 Chev), was sold in a public auction recently.  We were all surprised when the sale price was revealed at $3,500.00.  “Good luck to whomever inherited this machine.”                                       

*****

The Tanker Truck Committee has completed its research and presented its recommendation to the Company Officers on Feb. 6th.  Their recommendations along with the final touches and comments by Officers will be available at the Commissioners Meeting on Feb. 13th.  This Committee completed its task in a record 30-day period.  I am pleased with their findings and am anxious to draft final specifications in order to release a request for proposal.

*****

The Committee working on the Brush Truck re-furb is continuing its work.  It is my understanding that they are close to a proposal for consideration.  

EQUIPMENT:

The telephone system in Station 3 has been installed.  Technicians are still working to activate all features of the system where it will respond as an extension of the system from the District Office.  An additional module has been ordered that will complete this system and make this feature fully functional.

We are still waiting receipt of equipment from Motorola for the radio/alerting system.  I do not have a projected date of completion for this aspect of communications with Station 3.

*****

Equipment for the new Command Car will be placed on order within the next two weeks.  I hope to avoid delays in putting the vehicle into service based on equipment needs.  After careful consideration of the emergency lighting, I have decided to utilize the lightbar originally intended for the Manpower Van.  

This lightbar is dwarfed on the Van and really does not seem to fit well with the utilization of the vehicle.  My intentions are to simply place a couple of Kojak type lights in the Van for those few times when a Code 3 response is needed.

Other needs for the new Command Car include:  radio, siren system, Knox receiver, flashlight, air pack mounting, etc.  All of the equipment should be available locally with the exception of the communication gear.

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of January we responded to a total of 196 alarms; 84 were fire alarms and 112 were medical alarms.  This total is 19.5% greater than that of January 1996.  It also represents the most alarms responded to in any month on record.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

Training highlight for February will be the introduction of “Firehouse” to the entire organization.  Jeff Whipp will be providing us with borrowed projection equipment that will allow us to do live on line training with our computer network.

This will be the first time this type of training will be offered in-house.

*****

Swiftwater training and Vehicle Extrication are topics to be addressed in the regular drills for the month.  The emergency medical folks also continue their schedule of in-depth training.             

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Many compliments were received from personnel about the Newsletter carrying departmental information.  The first issue of Fire Call would have to be gauged as a success.  The second issue that was just posted will probably be well received too.  I should think the Commissioners may wish to use this as a vehicle to address any issue with the whole organization.  It looks like it may be a good means to keep everyone informed of the “big picture”.  I will ask that the editor take minutes from the District’s meeting and provide a synopsis for the newsletter.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 15

          Recruits ........  7         EMS ..................  7

          Regulars ........ 42         Combination .......... 27

          Probationary ....  0               (Compensated Vols. ..... 14)

   HONORARY MEMBERS .......  3    PAID STAFF:

  Full-time ............  5  

                                Part-time ............ 19

*****

We have received 17 applications for the position of Assistant Chief.  The Selection Committee has been meeting to determine the protocols to be utilized in the selection process.  Commissioner Mentzer is serving as Chairman of the Committee.  

The selection will be difficult considering the class of applicants before the Committee.  There are candidates from across the State, a couple from out-of-state, and even one from England.

*****

OTHER ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS:

Many nice compliments followed the Annual Dinner on January 25th.  I think the number of folks attending attests to the impact this organization has in our District.  I hope that we are able to continue this event in its present form with perhaps the addition of a keynote speaker next year.

*****

Emergency Services Strategic Planning meetings have continued since my last report.  I am still involved with the Panel on Emergency Medical Services and the Fire and Emergency Management Panel.  This last week proved to be of more interest in the EMS arena as the group began evaluation of call priority. 

*****

Austin EMS did indeed move out of Station 2, as reported last month.  There seems to be a more relaxed atmosphere in the Station now.  I’m sure this is relative to the room our personnel now have.  Four to six people living in those quarters was entirely too much.

A.  OPERATIONS:

APPARATUS & EQUIPMENT

Fleet:

CENTRAL STATION:

Squad 1  - In Service Engine 1   - In Service

Brush 1  - SALVAGE Utility 1  - In Service

Brush 3  - In Service Manpower 1 - In Service

Support 1  - In Service

Reserve:   ‘87 Arrow Engine -- In Service

STATION 2:

Squad 2  - In Service Engine 2 - In Service

STATION 3:l

Engine 3 - In Service

Tanker 1 - In Service

Tanker 2 - Reserve Status

*****

Specifications for the new tanker/tender have been completed and will be presented to District Commissioners for approval and release for bid.

ALARM INFORMATION:

During the month of February we responded to a total of 111 alarms.  The month of February actually saw a decrease in alarm activity.  Presently the call volume is 10% less than it was for the same period in 1996.  One can only believe this is a brief artifact.

A carpet warehouse on IH 35 presented the most spectacular display of CAFS technology to-date.  Damage to the structure and other property were certainly minimized by the use of our CAFS Technology.

CALL VOLUME STATISTICS ARE PRESENTED IN TABLES ATTACHED TO THIS REPORT.

TRAINING:

Applications have been posted for personnel wishing to attend the A & M Municipal School in July.  Indications are there will be a number of volunteers who are interested in going.  I have also agreed to allow full-time firefighters the opportunity of attending.

*****

We are evaluating a on-going program for training known as FETN, (Fire and Emergency Training Network).  This is a satellite system that would allow us to receive training in  all field including Officer Development.  The system carries approval of the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, the Texas Health Department, for EMS issues, and is also linked with the University of Cincinnati for college credit hours.

If the system receives favorable report from the Training Council, we will proceed with its installation.

*****

OTHER OPERATIONAL MATTERS:

Formation of Company 4 was announced at the Officers Meeting last week.  Along with that announcement came the announcement that Ron Hilliard would be leading that Company as its Captain.

*****

B.   ADMINISTRATION 

PERSONNEL  

 VOLUNTEERS:                        TYPE VOLUNTEER MEMBERSHIPS:

   Active Personnel                    Fire ................. 15

          Recruits ........  7         EMS ..................  7