9031-R3_CC_Hollis_2023-2024_AnnualReport_Web

Town of Hollis 2023-2024 Annual Report Dedication To Our Firefighters

This year’s annual report is dedicated to all our firefighters-- those who are still active in our ranks, the many who have served their community previously that are still with us, and those who have passed away. Fire Departments demonstrate their dedication through rigorous training and preparation, and unwavering commitment to public safety for our communities. Members undergo extensive and ongoing training to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to respond to a variety of emergencies. The training is both physical and mentally demanding, requiring individuals to push their limits and develop resiliency to continue. Firefighters must be proficient in not only responding to the fire itself, but also emergency care, hazardous material handling and other critical skills to have the best outcome to the event. Each of them continues to learn and improve their skills so that their delivery of service is tactical and strategic. When a fire call comes, it is the unknown that is the challenge—“Where, what, how did it start, where is it now, how big and how dangerous?” are among the thoughts that present themselves to those responding. Firefighters are dedicated to protecting both lives and property, placing them at great risk. They respond 24/7, regardless of the weather or time of day. They are often the first on the scene and the last to leave, assessing the situation promptly and taking immediate action as needed. Our firefighters often make significant sacrifices to their personal lives to serve our community. Responding to a call, they often miss family events, holidays, and other important occasions. It is also not unusual for someone on call to have back-to-back emergencies with little time in between to rest and recharge. The Fire Department staff have many other responsibilities that are often unseen by the public.Such things as restocking and checking that equipment is functioning properly; providing safety education to schools and the community. Although the funding required to manage and administer public

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