By Joseph Murray

Similar to variances in size and structures of fire departments across North America, fleet manager positions also vary greatly. Fleet managers may be fulltime positions within the fire department structure or they may be roles assigned under another position.

In many cases, the fleet manager might actually work under another municipal department, or the position may even be contracted out to a private entity. Regardless of how the organization is structured, there are a variety of desired skills and roles that should fall within the designated fleet manager job description to ensure the success of the fire department’s fleet program.

• Responsible Fleet Management for Emergency Response Vehicles
• Maintaining Your Fleet in a Down Economy
• Maximizing the Efficiency of Your Fleet
• Performing a Fleet Audit Survey
  

Although day-to-day tasks and responsibilities may vary, fleet managers’ strategic responsibilities are fairly consistent across the board. The primary role of the fire department fleet manager is to ensure that all fire apparatus are ready for use and that they are compliant with all applicable safety standards. Other common fire department fleet manager responsibilities include acquiring apparatus; managing maintenance, repair, and parts programs; ensuring compliance with various apparatus and safety standards; fleet benchmarking; determining apparatus life cycles; andthe ultimate disposition of apparatus. Depending on your department, the fleet manager may undertake these tasks as an individual or with additional support staff.

Fleet managers are integral parts of any fire department, and it is essential that fire chiefs choose the right candidates to fill these vital positions. The fleet manager position today encompasses so much more than simply purchasing and maintaining apparatus. To be successful, the fleet manager should be well rounded and possess a number of key skills, traits, and abilities.

LEADERSHIP TRAITS

First, as a leader within the fire department, the fleet manager is responsible for assisting in the fulfillment of the department’s mission, for ensuring the fleet division is productive, and for the growth of those under his command. A good fleet manager will properly manage his time, focus on outward contributions, andbuild on the strengths of his team. A fleet manager must lead by example. He must set the standard for his staff and continuously focus on the methods by which his division can best assist the fire department in meeting its mission.

DATA ANALYSIS AND BENCHMARKING ABILITIES

Today’s fleet managers must have a good understanding of data analysis and benchmarking to make the best decisions when it comes to the fleet. They should be able to identify trends and patterns within fleet operations, develop benchmarks or key performance indicators (KPIs), make informed decisions based on collected data metrics, and track performance and improvements over time. Tracking reliable and accurate data related to apparatus performance, safety metrics, and various costs will allow a fleet manager to optimize the fleet

The expansive landscape of north central South Dakota provides fertile ground for farmers and ranchers. Due to the dry grasslands and warm summers, the area faces an elevated risk of wildfires, according to a story in Rural Development U.S. Department of Agriculture.

In the event of a wildfire, the 20 volunteers of the Java Fire District depend on its equipment to respond promptly and mitigate the loss of crops and farm equipment.

Katie Hammer, a Loan Specialist with Rural Development’s Community Facilities program, said, “Based on several factors, Java qualified receive 35 percent of the truck’s cost as a Community Facilities grant.”

This makes a huge impact on small, rural fire departments who may not have the same financial wealth that larger communities have available. Katie added that she’s glad Rural Development can assist volunteer fire departments.

“This makes a huge impact on these departments. It’s a vital service in very remote areas,” said Katie. “The volunteers have day jobs, and we work hard to make the application process as easy as possible. Java is just one example of what is possible when we work together to support our rural communities.”

The old brush truck no longer met safety standards and had exceeded its useful life. By leveraging multiple programs, Java Fire District secured funding using the Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program to replace its 1974 International Harvester brush truck. The new brush truck with a $117,200 price tag was partially covered by a $41,000 grant, with the remaining amount financed through a $74,000 direct loan, applicant of $2,200. Java took possession of the new truck in November 2023.

“We’re grateful for the programs through Rural Development and the support from our local residents,” Java Fire District Chief Scott Zambo said, “The community provides significant support because they understand that without this equipment, the land can quickly succumb to flames before the next nearest fire department arrives.”

Responding to as many as 15 fires annually, the Java Fire District is equipped with three brush trucks and a pumper truck, enabling the department to promptly reach a fire and remain on-site to contain the flames.

“Our pumper truck can hold 3,000 gallons, and each of our brush trucks can carry between 350 and 400 gallons,” said Scott. “In situations requiring additional water, the local Elevator and nearby ranchers have been instrumental in delivering substantial amounts of water to support our firefighters in the field.”

The Elevator staff and ranchers can deliver needed water at a safe distance thanks to the Department’s available equipment, and firefighters can stay to fight the fires.

Thanks to mutual aid agreements, the Java Fire District is part of a larger network of communities providing support covering roughly 1,000 square miles during larger fires.

The Java Fire District’s investment was funded through the Community Facilities Loan and Grants program. Learn more about this program and other Rural Development programs by visiting RD.USDA.Gov/SD.

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