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The objectives of this Division shall be to further enhance the education of all Fire Service Administrative Support by conducting workshops and seminars; to increase the proficiency of Fire Administrative Support by establishing a network sharing of information systems through various channels of communication; and to faciliate a statewide standardization wherever possible in all phases and aspects of the Fire Administrative Support field for the benefit of the Fire Service.

Recent Fire Administrative Support News

Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
Comments: 0

This webcast will explore the job of the aerial driver and operator beyond basic training. It will dive into the information drivers need to know that may not be readily available: the newer trucks and what safety systems there are and can be in place and their pros and cons; how the specification process and final inspection can alter the operations of the apparatus; the operator’s manual and what information is extremely valuable to the driver/operator; some common department policies that can guide or hinder the operator; and tactical positioning of the apparatus and how to maximize the vehicle’s use.

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Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
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SoundOff Signal is a Hudsonville, Michigan-based manufacturer of LED lighting, control systems and sirens for emergency, amber and off-road vehicles. Known for innovative products, superior customer relationships and unmatched lead times, SoundOff Signal is proud to improve vehicle visibility and communication when needed the most. SoundOff Signal creates products that stand up to heat, force and pressure. Kinda like the men and women on the front lines.

Visit us at soundoffsignal.com

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Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
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Chief Concerns

If you ask “What is the primary job of an engine company?” you will likely get a response that the role is about water delivery to a fire, including establishing a water supply and deploying attack lines regardless of what tactical mode you are operating in—offensive or defensive.

Richard Marinucci

 

In virtually every fire department, that is an oversimplification of what is expected from these companies and vehicles. Engines have become the “do all” base of operations for all types of emergencies from the standard fire response to structures on fire, EMS calls, and special rescue. This creates some challenges to evaluate and address.

I have frequently been asked by city managers, mayors, council members, and financial officers why fire trucks cost so much. There is no simple answer—there are governmental regulations, technological advances, normal inflation, and the like. Also, departments are asking for a lot more functions from their fire engines than ever before. The vehicles need to be built to accommodate the additional responsibilities, which add components to increase gross vehicle weight, power more tools and equipment, and create space.

There is probably no definitive data on the number of departments that do not have specialized and separate engine and truck companies, but one could reasonably assume that beyond metro departments, most organizations have multifunction engine companies. Departments have limited resources including staffing and funds for aerial apparatus, so they have no choice but to include all the necessary equipment on engines for the types of emergencies they will likely face.

At structure fires, certain truck company jobs must be performed. Specific tools are required to do this efficiently and effectively—ladders to reach the bulk of roofs and floors or buildings in the community, saws, forcible entry tools, and the like. There are creative ways to make space but there are limitations and challenges. In fire situations, time is an important factor. Overstuffed compartments can cause delays. Also, consider methods to power the tools such as fuel storage and electrical.

Many departments have tried to maximize the value of engines by adding equipment for services other than water delivery. This is almost always a better option than trying to purchase and maintain a fleet where all the vehicles have limited functions.

One area of added responsibilities that has changed engines is EMS. The need for space and energy is definitely a design and maintenance challenge. Depending on the level of service, multiple compartments may be needed for equipment. This can include simple “jump boxes” as well as advanced life support supplies. Besides space considerations, security for drug boxes is essential. Some equipment requires charging, so electrical needs are an important factor. Having enough power going to the proper compartments should be part of new truck specifications; if it is not, research after-market add-ons. Electrical issues can cause headaches for a long time. Read more

Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
Comments: 0

KME—White Lake Fire Authority, Whitehall, MI, elliptical pumper/tanker. International HV607 2-door 4×2 cab and chassis; Cummins L9 360-hp engine; Hale DSD 1,500-gpm pump; LE elliptical 3⁄16-inch aluminum body; Zico 2-arm Quic-Lift portable tank system; Whelen lighting package; ROM roll-up doors with painted finish. Dealer: Chris Payette, Payette Sales & Service, Grosse Ile Township, MI.


PREVIOUS PHOTO OF THE DAY >>

MORE FIRE APPARATUS ARTICLES >>

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Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
Comments: 0

Sarah Watson
Moline Dispatch and Rock Island Argus, Ill.
(TNS)

Mar. 24—It’s orange cone season in Davenport.

Several major construction projects are getting underway as the weather warms this spring, including the completion of 53rd Street, Fire Station No. 3, and the start of a $20 million Duck Creek sewer line project.

With an infusion of federal American Rescue Plan dollars and other grants, Davenport residents will see an unusually high number of construction projects completed in the next few years, city officials said.

“Not just the quantity, but the large-scale nature of it (construction projects),” said Assistant Public Works Director Clay Merritt. “I can speak to my time in nine years coming on 10, we’ve only had maybe three $9 million-plus projects. This summer, we’re probably going to have three or four happening at the same time.”

City officials are urging residents to be patient and drive carefully around the city’s numerous road, sewer, parks, facilities, and trail work.

“There’s a lot of construction occurring so, once again, asking the public, please be patient as we work through this,” Merritt said. “We think everyone will be extremely happy with the end result and the new improvements in the amenities and the infrastructure that we’re building. We just need to take the time to get there.”

Fire station to wrap up construction this year

Motorists on North Brady Street or Welcome Way and 42nd Street have likely seen the towers and framing that will become a new Davenport fire station.

The $10.7 million building will replace Fire Station No. 3, a more than 60-year-old building at 3506 N. Harrison Street. The new location allows for easier access to both north- and south-bound one-ways, which city officials have said will reduce response times.

The building also includes a 60-person community room, larger space for fire apparatus, and airlock vestibules to keep chemicals out of community areas.

Merritt estimated construction will be completed by November of this year.

“Almost every single week, you’re seeing a different change, a different look,” he said. “Thankfully, we had a fairly mild winter, at least from a construction standpoint, and so we’ve been able to proceed pretty much throughout the entirety of the winter on that construction.”

East 53rd Street also to be completed

Construction crews are expected to wrap up the final phases of one of Davenport’s busiest thoroughfares, Merritt said.

The final 0.8 miles from From Lorton Avenue to Eastern Avenue will be reconstructed and widened this year, with a recreational trail added too.

Motorists will begin seeing lane reductions on Monday as construction closes two lanes between Eastern Avenue and Jersey Ridge Road. Side streets to the south will also be closed intermittently, according to the city.

By the end of the year, drivers will see the final product of the years-long construction.

The $16.2 million 53rd Street reconstruction project is a four-year, two-phase, multi-segment project that completely reconstructed the four-lane roadway between Brady Street and Elmore Circle. Part of the funding came from federal grants.

Federal COVID-19 relief funds projects

The city plans to extend a sewer line west of Davenport, following Duck Creek from about North Division Street past I-280. The bulk of the $20 million multi-year project is being paid for by some of the city’s $40.94 million allocation from the federal Am

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Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
Comments: 0

Ken de la Bastide
The Herald Bulletin, Anderson, Ind.
(TNS)

Mar. 27—ANDERSON — During the past year the city of Anderson has spent approximately $2 million on new equipment for the police and fire departments.

The 103 officers with the Anderson Police Department have been provided with new safety equipment.

All officers received new bulletproof body armor and helmets, and 20 patrol cars will be equipped with bulletproof shields and building entry tools.

The administration of Anderson Mayor Thomas Broderick Jr. included in the 2023 city budget $350,000 from the city’s share of the public safety local income tax to purchase the new equipment.

The city also budgeted $288,000 from the public safety funds for the purchase of an armored rescue and extraction vehicle that would be used to allow police to quickly remove people from a dangerous environment.

That vehicle is set to be delivered this fall.

Chief Mike Lee said he was approached by Broderick following the school shooting in Texas last year.

Broderick said following the Texas shooting the city wanted to make sure the officers have the proper protective gear.

“I know that you would never let happen what took place in Texas by standing around,” he said. “We wanted to make sure you had as much protection as possible to enter a crime scene.”

The police department is moving forward with accreditation plans.

Broderick announced last year that the department was starting the process with Indiana Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission.

Chief Mike Lee delivered several documents as part of the departmental reorganization and minor changes to some policies.

The accreditation commission has developed a set of standards and best practices for police agencies across the state.

The website says that earning its accreditation is a clear statement of exceptional levels of professionalism and commitment to excellence in law enforcement.

APD has taken recent steps to improve its law enforcement measures. They include:

—Continuously replacing aging police vehicles

—Implementing and expanding a vehicle take-home program.

—The 2023 city budget includes $190,000 to purchase new patrol cars.

—Installing in-car computers in all patrol cars

—Issuing new body cameras and uniforms for all officers

—Streamlining creation of documentation and reports

—Rewriting and updating all policies and procedures, including making most policies available online

—Creating a new complaint and compliment process.

The Anderson Fire Department has spent $850,000 on the purchase of a new ambulance and pumper truck in 2022 and upgraded communication services at all of the fire stations.

Assistant Chief Todd Cawthorn said the Fire Department now has three front-line ambulances and three backups in the fleet.

Last year, the ambulances made 13,131 emergency runs, and Cawthorn said the number of runs this year is increasing.

The 2023 budget includes funding for a new truck at Station 2, a new ambulance and a new vehicle for the battalion chief.

The Madison County Council approved an appropriation of $122,100 to install the bulletproof windshields in all 40 vehicles used by the department.

The city of Elwood also equipped all of their patrol vehicles with bulletproof windshields after the shooting death of Officer Noah Shahnavaz last July.

Follow Ken de la Bastide on Twitter @KendelaBastide, or call 765-640-4863.

___

(c)2023 The Herald Bulletin (Anderson, Ind.)

Visit The Herald Bulletin (Anderson, Ind.) at www.theh

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Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
Comments: 0

The bipartisan Fire Station Act would authorize $750 million in fire station construction grants

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S Rep. Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09), longtime Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, announced today that he and Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) have reintroduced legislation to help fire departments across the United States update existing fire stations and construct new ones where needed. The Facilitating Investments Required for Emergency Services to All Towns in Our Nation (FIRE STATION) Act, would authorize $750 million in fire station construction grants administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for modifying, upgrading, and building fire and EMS department facilities, including local fire and EMS stations and training facilities.

The FIRE STATION Act is co-led in the House by U.S. Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) and Mike Bost (R-IL-12), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, and co-led in the Senate by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus.

The bipartisan legislation is aimed at ensuring that fire and EMS departments across the nation have access to the resources they need to better serve their communities. The grant funding can be used to build, rebuild, or renovate fire and EMS department facilities; upgrade existing facilities to install exhaust emission control systems; install backup power systems; upgrade or replace environmental control systems, such as HVAC systems; remove or remediate mold; and construct or modify living quarters for use by male and female personnel.

“Firefighters and EMS personnel put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. They deserve the best possible resources and facilities to carry out their vital work,” said Congressman Pascrell. “Our Fire Station Act will provide critical funding to help modernize fire and EMS department facilities across the nation, ensuring that our first responders have the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.”

“Our fire fighters deserve the best possible facilities so they can be ready with everything they need to spring into action when duty calls. Yet nearly half of the fire stations across America require major repairs – with some even posing serious health hazards to the men and women who protect our communities. This bipartisan bill will unlock more funding to ensure our fire and EMS heroes have modern, safe, and mission-ready facilities,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“As co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, I am committed to championing legislation that invests in the first responders who put their lives on the line to protect our communities every day,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “I am proud to spearhead this bipartisan, bicameral legislation that will allocate additional resources to our hero fire fighters.”

“As one of the few former firefighters in Congress, it’s a very personal mission for me to ensure our fire stations are upgraded and modernized,” said Congressman Bost. “My role as a co-chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus provides an important platform to see that mission through. I’m proud to support the Fire Station Construction Grants Act to ensure our firefighters have the safe and effective facilities they need to do their jobs and keep their communities safe.”

“Those who serve as fire fighters throughout Alaska not only deserve functional facilities – but need them – to help them respond quickly and safely to emergencies. Unfortunately, many fire stations in our state are in dire need of repair and updating—which is why I’m joining my colleagues in this bipartisan measure, the FIRE STATION Act, to in

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Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
Comments: 0

Howard Fire Company made the following announcement on Facebook Feb. 26:

Thought it was time to introduce everyone to Howard Fire Company’s latest acquisitions: ER 14-1 and ER 14-2, our used 2013 Twin Pierce Velocity’s. Both engines were purchased to replace three pieces of apparatus and downsize to two. Both replaced the the 2000 American LaFrance Engine, and 1990 Eone Mack Rescue, housed at the the main station, along with the 1992 Seagrave Engine Rescue housed at the Marion substation.

Both apparatus are set up with both engine and rescue equipment, and clone each other with equipment, hence why we call these units Engine/Rescues or (ER) for short. ER 14-1 is housed at the main station. ER 14-2 is housed at the Marion substation.

HFC would like to thank Marion Township, Curtin Township, Howard Township and Howard Borough for contributing to this project with some of their ARP funds. This acquisition would not have been possible without them.

Equipment mounting was done by our own Deputy Chief Josh Collins and his company Jager LLC. An open house-dedication ceremony was held Saturday, March 25.


Company President Bill Nearhoof told 6 News these new vehicles require fewer crew members to get them up and running, 6 News reported Saturday. That’s due in part to these two engines replacing what were previously three pieces of apparatus. As fire departments nationwide face a volunteer shortage, Howard fire officials say this improvement makes a difference.

Howard Fire Company covers about 150 square miles, so every second counts when responding to emergencies of all sorts, the report said.

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Posted: Mar 28, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
Comments: 0

CHICO, CA – Rescue 42, in collaboration with AT&T, announced today the launch of the miniCRD™ for FirstNet®, a miniature Compact Rapid Deployable (CRD) system delivering FirstNet connectivity when and where it’s needed.

Comprised of 2 ultra-portable ruggedized cases that are each about the size of checked luggage, the miniCRD can be deployed by a single person within a matter of minutes, has a FirstNet LTE range of up to ½ mile – and up to 1 mile with FirstNet MegaRange™ – and links to FirstNet via satellite. 80% smaller and half the price of the CRD for FirstNet, the innovative system can be hand-carried or transported by a single person in a vehicle, by air or over water, to anywhere communications are needed.

With this on-the-go coverage, public safety can have dedicated Band 14 connectivity when and where they need it, even in the most remote environments. The new Flat High-Performance Starlink® satellite terminal as part of the miniCRD provides high-speed, prioritized satellite backhaul, with speeds up to 220Mbps and <99ms latency, supporting Cellular and Internet connectivity almost anywhere.

“Our team is thrilled to deliver the new miniCRD for FirstNet, an innovative solution for FirstNet critical communications users,” said Tim O’Connell, CEO of Rescue 42. “The miniCRD provides another option for communication redundancy in remote locations or during outages, with an even more compact solution than the existing CRD. Our primary mission will always be the safety of First Responders, and we plan to continue developing innovative solutions to further this goal.”

Rescue 42 also manufactures the larger, more powerful CRD for FirstNet. The CRD can generate a larger area of FirstNet Cellular and Wi-Fi coverage, virtually anytime and anywhere. Agency-owned CRDs can be deployed by a single person within minutes — with no lifting required.

“Rescue 42 has done it again. The Compact Rapid Deployable (CRD) sent shockwaves through the emergency response community with its ‘FirstNet anywhere-in-an-instant’ capabilities,” said Chief Jeffrey D. Johnson (Retired), Executive Director of the Western Fire Chiefs Association. “Now, the launch of the miniCRD will broaden wireless functionali

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Posted: Mar 27, 2023
Categories: Fire Mechanics
Comments: 0

Wyoming, Minn., March 16, 2023 – Rosenbauer America announced today that it will partner with IKON Fire, LLC for apparatus sales and service in the states of Colorado and Wyoming. The partnership is effective immediately.

Established by Super Vacuum Mfg. Co., Inc., an industry leader in the manufacturing, sales and service of fire equipment, IKON Fire brings more than 50 years of apparatus sales and service to the region. Thanks to its central location in Fort Collins, Colo., just 70 miles north of Denver, Colorado and Wyoming departments now have a close resource for sales and service of Rosenbauer apparatus and equipment sales.

“Rosenbauer is thrilled to welcome IKON Fire to our dealer network to serve customers in Colorado and Wyoming,” said Mark Fusco, President of Rosenbauer America. “IKON is well known and respected throughout the fire industry for the highest levels of integrity and customer service. IKON has convenient brick-and-mortar and mobile service options available for customers throughout Colorado and Wyoming.”

IKON is equally excited about the partnership. “We are proud to represent Rosenbauer and the company’s 150- year-old reputation. We share in Rosenbauer’s mission of saving lives and protecting property,” IKON Fire President Ron Weinmeister said. “We are excited to be an authorized dealer of Rosenbauer’s fire apparatus line, especially its aerial lineup. Colorado and Wyoming are experiencing amazing growth, and these vehicles will serve our community well.

Staffed by EVT-certified technicians, IKON’s 160,000-sq.-ft. facility provides chassis, engine and driveline service, as well as accident repair and fire pump maintenance. “Our Fort Collins service center is ready and equipped to service Rosenbauer customers immediately,” Weinmeister said.

IKON plans to display Rosenbauer demo units at the Fire Leadership Challenge, hosted by the Colorado State Fire Chiefs in Keystone, Colo., in mid-October 2023.

“IKON was a natural choice for Rosenbauer to partner with, making IKON Fire, LLC the premium authorized Rosenbauer sales and service dealership for Colorado and Wyoming,” Fusco finished.

About IKON Fire

IKON Fire is a fire apparatus and equipment dealer in Colorado and Wyoming, offering the Rosenbauer fire apparatus line, including aerials, pumpers and tankers. A company of Super Vacuum Mfg. Co., Inc., IKON’s sales team and service center is situated in Fort Collins, Colo. To learn more about IKON Fire, visit www.ikonfire.com.

About Rosenbauer America

Rosenbauer is the world’s leading manufacturer of custom fire apparatus and equipment. Rosenbauer offers

the industry’s most comprehensive line of advanced custom and commercial pumpers, heavy rescues, tenders,

mini and rescue pumpers, aerial ladders and platforms featuring SMART Aerial™ Technology, and the RTX fully electric fire truck.

For more information, contact your local Rosenbauer dealer or visit www.RosenbauerAmerica.com, Facebook, and YouTube.

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FIRE ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT SECTION UPCOMING EVENTS

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FIRE ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT BOARD & COMMITTEES

Chair

Posted: Sep 19, 2020

Chair

Caity Karapostoles

Clallam County Fire District 3

caityk@ccfd3.org

360-683-4242


Term: 2019 - 2021

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Past Chair

Posted: Sep 21, 2019

Past Chair

Mykel Montgomery

Franklin County 3
Administrative Assistant

mmontgomery@fcfd3.org

509-547-9306 

 

Term; 2019 - 2020

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Secretary

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Secretary

VACANT

 

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Treasurer

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Treasurer

Emily Lewis

Eastside Fire & Rescue

elewis@esf-r.org

Office (425) 313 – 3278

Work Cell (425) 439 – 4000


Term: 2019 - 2021

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Communications

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Communications

Lisette Kelly

Mountain View Fire & Rescue
Administrative Assistant

253-735-0284 


Term: 2019 - 2021

 

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Regional Representative

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Regional Representative

Cathy Blakeway

City of Tumwater Fire Department
Administrative Assistant

cblakeway@ci.tumwater.wa.us

360-754-4170

 

Term: 2019 - 2021

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Regional Representative

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Regional Representative

Kristen Cole

Walla Walla County Fire District 5

kcole@wwcfd5.org 

509-547-8341


Term: 2018 - 2020

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Regional Representative

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Regional Representative

Julie Patterson

Vancouver Fire Department

 julie.patterson@cityofvancouver.us

360-487-7224


Term: 2019 - 2021

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Regional Representative

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Regional Representative

Kim Baldwin

Clark County Fire District 10

kim.baldwin@clark.wa.gov

360-247-5233


Term: 2019 - 2021


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Committee Member

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Committee Member

Katie Rassmussen

Washington State Fire Training Academy

Division Public Information Officer & Event Coordinator 2

Katie.Rasmussen@wsp.wa.gov

425-453-3000 x 110 


 

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Committee Member

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Committee Member

Lori Coleman

Clallam County Fire District 3

lcoleman@ccfd3.org

360-582-2054

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Regional Representative

Posted: Sep 21, 2015

Regional Representative

Slita Bradley

Benton County Fire District 4
District Secretary

SBradley@bcfd4.org

509-967-2945

 

Term; 2020 - 2021

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Committee Member

Posted: Sep 19, 2015

Committee Member

Melissa Knutson

Eastside Fire & Rescue

mknutson@esf-r.org

425-313-3232

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Committee Member

Posted: Sep 18, 2015

Committee Member

Tina Williamson

Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority

tmwilliamson@pugetsoundfire.org

253-856-4406


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Committee Member

Posted: Sep 17, 2015

Committee Member

Linda Reeff

Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority

lreeff@pugetsoundfire.org

253-856-4334 
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