From the Eastford Independent Fire Company
Click here to find a form from us. By filling out this form with basic information, we can pull it up while responding. All information is confidential and only seen if there is a call for service at your address by us. Thank you — from Chief Doug Beaudoin.
Members recently toured the Eastford Baptist Church to familiarize ourselves with the layout of the facility.
We responded to 19 emergencies in February and 27 emergencies in March. Members participated in the annual roadside clean-up event, and drilled pumping skills on all trucks.
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Drill: What is the purpose of conducting pumping drills annually? The purpose of frequent drills is essential for ensuring fire safety and preparedness. The drills help ensure that the fire suppression system is fully operational and ready to respond during an emergency. In addition, practicing the skills on all trucks that provide water is an important part for the firemen to feel comfortable with the trucks’ operation.
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EMS Drill: Members were FIT tested for N95 masks. This testing is critical to ensure a proper seal and effective protection with no air leaks. OSHA mandated testing is required annually following protocols, and/or changes in the user, i.e., facial surgery, weight gain/loss, dental work, etc. Records must be kept on file until the next scheduled fitting and testing.
The season for brush fires is here in full force. A brush fire is a fire in vegetation that is less than 6-feet tall, such as grasses, brush and trees. A brush fire is difficult to control and often spreads quickly, fueled by oxygen and wind. Brush fires can start by burning leaves, garbage or brush, that if left unattended, can lead to uncontrolled wildfires. Most fires start by human activities such as unattended campfires, cigarettes and arson, along with natural causes including lightning strikes. Four out of five wildfires are started by people, but dry weather, drought and strong winds can create the perfect disaster.
Why do we train? Every fire behaves differently. Firefighters must learn a wide range of suppression tactics from basic control line to hot spotting. Pictured, EIFC members conducted brush fire training on Church Road on April 9.
How can people avoid brush fires? Clear debris and be aware of dry vegetation, hanging branches and trash. Keep flammable items far away and have water nearby, pay attention to weather and drought conditions. Build campfires in an open location, douse the campfire and stir until cold, keep running vehicles and equipment off dry grass. Do not operate equipment or let stand running that may produce sparks near vegetation.
Remember, not all fire is bad! Fire plays a natural and necessary role in many landscapes and vital for some wildlife habitation. The recipe for the successful end of a working campfire is
- Douse with a large bucket of water
- Stir
- Add another bucket of water
- Stir again.
As Smokey the Bear says: “Only you can prevent forest fires.”