PHOENIX, AZ—Thanks to fire station communications technology powered by Phoenix, Arizona, based US Digital Designs (stationalerting.com), critical seconds have been shaved off fire and medical response times in Cedar Park, Texas, and vicinity. In fact, Cedar Park’s new Phoenix G2 Station Alerting System—manufactured by USDD—is already helping the community achieve its ambitious goal of averaging eight minutes for a fire call and six minutes for a medical call.

“While Cedar Park’s emergency response times can be measured in minutes and seconds, the end result—the benefit to its residents, their homes, and their businesses—is nearly incalculable,” notes General Manager Dominic Magnoni, US Digital Designs. “The Phoenix G2 Station Alerting System was designed to create a better overall communications response in many different aspects of the emergency call and response process, and it’s proving itself time and again,” he says.

In an emergency, every second counts: from the initial 911 call, which, when it comes in, is then relayed to the dispatcher and ultimately transmitted to every agency and crew on call. There are several steps, and each one takes up critical time. Since the installation, however, Cedar Park is now cutting down that time in impressive fashion, according to the city’s chief, James Mallinger. “Right now our overall for last year was nine minutes and seven seconds,” he says, adding that the department’s goal is to reach national response time recommendations of eight and six minutes, respectively. In a local ABC station broadcast, Mallinger notes that Cedar Park modeled its alerting system after a Phoenix G2 installation in San Antonio, Texas, which has reportedly reduced response times in half.

The Phoenix G2 Station Alerting System technology operates in many different parts of the emergency call process. During an event, the Phoenix G2 helps dispatchers and emergency personnel communicate with the right individuals at the right stations; it frees up dispatchers so there is less (if any) “hold” time on the phone; and, once the dispatcher enters an address, the system automatically determines and announces which types of crews will be needed. It also sends computerized text-to-voice messages to on-call units.

For more information, visit www.stationalerting.com.

Dry 6 sets of turnout gear in fewer than four hours. Circul-Air Corp.’s new PPE Dryer comes with everything you need to dry your turnout gear, helmets, gloves, and boots.

No additional bulky and expensive accessories needed. With its six-year warranty and Circul-Air’s proven quality and performance for more than 75 years, you can be assured your gear is being properly maintained. The company’s PPE Dryer meets NFPA 1851 standards and, like all Circul-Air Corp. products, it’s American made. This turnout gear dryer is priced at $6,499.

For more information, visit www.circul-air-corp.com.

Fort Collins, CO—Oelo lighting solutions, a manufacturer of LED outdoor lighting products, announced the installation of its LED structural lighting on the Falls Township Fire Department, located in Levittown, PA. Oelo installed its fully customizable outdoor structural lighting product to highlight the station for various occasions throughout the year.

Oelo lighting systems are powered by individual LED engines to deliver safe, energy-efficient, and configurable lighting solutions designed to withstand the elements year-round. 

“We want the Falls Township fire station to shine bright all year, for every occasion and cause,” said Clay Horst, COO of Oelo. “Municipal buildings are designed to make a statement, to standout; Oelo lighting really showcases the beauty of the township fire department.” 

The Falls Township Fire Department has been serving the community since 1928, expanding its structure and services as the community grows. 

“Our building is not new; Oelo mounted seamlessly to the exterior trim without causing damage, and remains undetectable during the daylight hours,” says Gary Margerum, fire company president, Falls Township Fire Department. “Having the ability to change lighting colors and configurations with my phone makes management extremely easy and actually pretty fun.” 

To show support for the 2016 United States Olympians, the Falls Township Fire Department displays red and blue on its Oelo lighting system. 

“We cannot be in Rio to support our team, but having the ability to light the fire station to demonstrate our support has evoked a sense of connection and patriotism for the entire town of Levittown,” said Margerum. 

For more information about Oelo lighting solutions, visit www.oelo.com.

Joint Statement from the IAFC, NFFF, NFPA and NVFC:

In the spirit of “See something; say something,” we feel it is time to ask for your attention. Over the past few months, there have been an alarming number of firefighter fatalities. In light of that, we do want to remind every operational firefighter, company officer, crew boss, superintendent, and command officer about the importance of situational awareness, evaluation of risk, value of risk as compared to the likelihood of success and the all-important desire of your family, loved one’s and friends that they want every firefighter to go home at the end of their tour of duty.

August, and even September, can bring brutal heat, oppressive humidity and poor air quality throughout the country. On their own, these conditions can cause anyone to become dehydrated and feel ill. Also, the extra weight we carry with our gear and the extreme heat we endure while battling a fire or engaging in other rescue operations, it’s not surprising that our core body temperatures increase rapidly, which can lead to devastating consequences.

Make sure you’re hydrated before, during and after your shift. This will help your body maintain its ability to function properly. If you begin to feel unwell, such as unusual cramping, nausea or pain or pressure in your chest, tell someone immediately so you can get medical attention.

During these summer and early fall months many of us tend to adopt a carefree and spirited mindset. Don’t let this interfere with vigilance while driving or riding in a department or personal vehicle. Always use seat belts and demand that others do, too. Furthermore, always obey the laws of the road and be observant for what others are doing while they’re out and about. Too often, a motorist may not hear or see you coming despite lights and sirens, or recklessly think they can out-run and out-maneuver that 20-plus ton vehicle bearing down on them.

While we’re only midway through the year, and many factors can change between now and the end of December, please do all you can to remain conscientious about your health, your environment and your surroundings. Likewise, if you think someone else is being less than attentive to their health and safety, please say something. Let them know that at the end of every shift we want to be sure Everyone Goes Home® to their loved ones.  

RELATED

Report: Firefighter Injuries Up in Summer Heat

15 Firefighters Suffer Heat Exhaustion Battling Jersey City Fire

Fireground Rehab : An Important Job Thats Tough to Fill

Firefighter Safety: Preparing for the Weather : Summer

Aggressive Fire Truck Driving Analysis

The Rig: Driving and Operating

Read more

• 318
• 0
• Article rating: No rating