Texas Fire Dept. Tests New, Smaller Response Unit
Source Midland Reporter-Telegram, Texas
Feb. 05--The Midland Fire Department is about halfway through its month-long trial of a new first-response unit.
The department has retro-fitted a truck with emergency response and medical equipment that temporarily is filling the role of an out-of-service engine at Station 5. MFD officials predict -- and the early results are showing it to be the case -- the new unit, Squad 51, is faster and more cost efficient.
"After analyzing response times and the type of calls we receive, it was just the next logical step," Fire Chief Robert Isbell said about the new unit's inception.
The main catalyst for the new trial was Engine 5's month-long out-of-service status. To fill the need, Battalion Chief Chad Clark floated Squad 51's concept during a meeting with Isbell.
So far, the response has been positive, and early results are showing that the unit is more efficient. Isbell and Clark said the unit is equipped with everything needed for a non-fire emergency. It has medical supplies, a jaws of life and other equipment to support life or assist a victim until an ambulance arrives on-scene for transport. A paramedic and firefighter operate Squad 51, and because of its size, the unit can maneuver more quickly and typically arrives on-scene before larger units.
Both stressed that the specialized unit only works in specific situations and that the department still needs engines, ladder trucks and ambulances, specifically because the unit has no firefighting capabilities.
The unit's equipment and standard operating practices are evolving; new modifications are made weekly.
Although the unit is still undergoing testing, Isbell and Clark are optimistic. If the month-long trial is successful, the department might install a few of these specialized units around Midland.
James Cannon can be reached at [email protected].
Copyright 2012 - Midland Reporter-Telegram, Texas
