A common mistake that people make is delaying their preparations for the winter season. For those of us who are in the fire service, there’s no reason to delay this important task.
Winter is on the calendar, and we know that it’s approaching. We also know that winter weather can produce gigantic challenges in providing the vital services that our community depends on. So, if you’re going to prepare early, now is the time. Yes, it’s fall, but it’s perfect for conducting the numerous activities and chores that are required for winter preparation.
A short list of activities must be addressed before the challenging winter weather arrives. Some of these are simple phone calls; others are more difficult.
Apparatus
One of the most important pieces of equipment is the fire apparatus. Whether your company is assigned a pumper or ladder, a few items must be looked at.
The tires must be examined to make sure that there are no defects or damage and that there’s sufficient tread depth for traction in snow and other slippery, winter road conditions.
Have fresh antifreeze installed and check that the heat and the blower are operational.
If the apparatus is equipped with automatic chains, the chains must be examined and tested. If not so equipped, manual tire chains must be located and checked for serviceability.
Quarters
Examine the condition of several areas of the station.
Make sure that all windows and doors close properly and tightly and that all glass is intact. (Apparatus doors should be looked at as well to ensure that they close down tightly.)
The oil burner or other house heating equipment should be examined and professionally serviced. In the case of oil-fired equipment, fuel should be ordered, so the season is started with a full tank.
Tools & equipment
Several tools used particularly during the winter must be available and in good condition at the firehouse.
Snow shovels must be present in adequate numbers, so several members can clear snow from the front apron simultaneously. One or two shovels should be carried on the apparatus for use on the road if necessary.
Salt, sand or another material that can be spread on the front apron also should be carried on the apparatus for traction issues out on the road.
Contact information
Other municipal/county departments occasionally might be needed by the fire department for assistance.
The highway department has heavy equipment, and snowplows might be needed by the fire department. Even though these crews will be busy plowing roads in the community, a fire company might need to have the front of the firehouse or an access driveway to the front or rear of the firehouse plowed.
Every company should have an updated phone number and name of a supervisor at the highway department, etc. This way, they can call directly to have that work completed quickly. The same department often can be used to have a snowbound apparatus pulled out of a snow drift or other deep snow conditions.
Staffing
The number of firefighters that are on each apparatus usually is constant. During extreme winter weather, particularly deep snow or blizzard conditions, departments should consider increasing staffing.
Adding just one firefighter to a crew of three makes pulling a line or deploying a portable ladder much easier and faster. Some departments place additional companies in service using spare apparatus and overtime firefighters. Generally, these situations would be authorized or ordered by a chief or headquarters personnel but should be considered before the weather arrives.
Don’t delay
A few simple activities can have a dramatic, positive effect on the delivery of services during the winter. Get with it this now for a successful winter season.
