7538-R2_ML&P_TownOfBuxton_2019-2020_Web

Buxton Fire-Rescue 2019-2020 Annual Report

In January of 2020 Buxton Fire-Rescue hired its first career firefighter/paramedic captain, Chris Desjardins. The position was created and approved as part of the 2019-2020 budget process and provides direct supervision for the departments career and per-diemfirefighter/EMT’s andParamedics. The position is a “boots on the ground” position able to handle fire and emergency medical calls. When there are not calls the captain is responsible for coordination of maintenance for the three stations, all apparatus, and equipment, which has taken that responsibility off the shoulders of the paid-on-call officers, allowing them to focus on personnel, training, and other in-service details. During 2020, the following members were promoted to the following paid-on-call positions: • Conrad Jellison to Deputy Chief – Paid on Call Division During the fall of 2019 andwinter of 2020, the department was facedwith an emergency replacement of the department’s ladder truck due to significant maintenance issues that were found during its annual truck and aerial preventative maintenance inspections. Prior to that, the truck’s fire pump was taken out of service due to a failed pump test that would cost thousands in maintenance costs. As a result of the maintenance defects, the 1986 E-One Quint was permanently placed out of service. Throughout the fall and winter, the department worked with the Board of Selectman on a solution to replace the apparatus. In early spring, 2020, the department signed a contract with Greenwood Emergency Vehicles in Brunswick for the purchase and refurbishment of a 2001 E-One HP 75’Quint (pumper/ladder truck). After July 2020 the apparatus was delivered to the department and crews began training to operate the truck both as a pumper and an aerial ladder. The apparatus is housed at the Groveville Station on Turkey Lane and fills the role of a ladder truck, pumper, and rescue truck. The fire engine at the station was reassigned to Chicopee Station, and the 1993 fire engine at Chicopee has been decommissioned. This truck will be seen responding to motor vehicle accidents as it carries the “Jaw of Life”, due to its multi-role responsibility. It will also be seen responding to outside fires, and structure fires. The purchase of this apparatus reduced the department’s capital replacement requirements as it reduced the amount of fire engines the Town has, thus saving future taxes over $500,000. The officers and members of Buxton Fire-Rescue appreciate the support that the community provides us throughout the year. Thank You! Respectfully, • Connor Redlon to Lieutenant – Bar Mills Station • Matthew Angus to Lieutenant – Chicopee Station

Chief Nathan R. Schools, EFO W orking T o promote and protect the health abd safety of our community and first responders

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