One area where there is a lot of work being done to reduce response delays is in the area of station alerting. These systems range from the relatively simple to the complex. The desired end result for any type is the same: get firefighters where they need to be to mitigate any number of hazards. These systems can be tied into the apparatus responding to give the officer on the rig as much information as possible and can also be wired throughout fire stations.

Visit www.the-fire-station.com for more information on station alerting systems.

There are few things that boost the morale of firefighters like the arrival of a new fire apparatus. Such was the case for members of the Stewiacke District Fire Department when members met for breakfast and to transfer from its existing rescue truck, a 1999 rig, to its new rescue unit built on a Ram 3500 chassis. According to the department's chief, the truck is paid in full--not a common occurrence for departments today.

For information on other types of light rescue trucks, visit:

With deaths resulting from drug overdoses outpacing deaths by vehicle crashes (according to the FDA), the Kern County (CA) Fire Department is now carrying the inhaled antidote, nasal naloxone. Nasal naloxone is a generic for Narcan.

In many municipalities, EMS and police vehicles have already carried an antidote for opioid overdoses, but in recent months, we have seen more and more fire apparatus carrying the antidote as well.

See what other departments are doing at:

• Chicago Stocking Narcan On Fire Trucks
• Framingham (MA) Now Carrying Narcan on Fire Apparatus
• Scranton (PA) Fire Apparatus Outfitted with Overdose Antidote
• More Missouri Police and Fire Departments Get Heroin Antidote