Tim Darland, Fire Chief
High Prairie firefighters had a very busy year. During 2021, first responders took part in 125 emergency calls. This is a record for the department. I will break down the call categories in the spring High Prairian issue.
The Fire Commissioners have sworn in two new department members, Pat Snyder and James Biscardi. Welcome to both and thank you for taking an active part in our community. Your service is very much needed.
In 2021 the department received a grant from Legends Casino for $5,000. The money is being utilized to install air systems at Station 1 and Station 2. This air system will allow us to pre-charge the air brakes on the emergency apparatus for a faster response out the door. This project is scheduled to be completed in February 2022. Also, some much needed building maintenance was done over this last year, including painting Station 1/Community Center and replacing door seals.
As we all know, winter is upon us and certainly arrived with a vengeance. The fire department prepares by chaining up several emergency vehicles to respond in these winter conditions. Time is critical in any emergency response situation and even more so with feet of snow on the ground. As property owners, you can greatly help save time in our emergency response by plowing long driveways as well as ensuring the width plowed is at least 9 feet. Being able to drive to your residence for a house fire is much quicker than if the firefighters have to drag hoses up your driveway.
With that being said, I know not everyone can get or keep their driveways plowed. Here are a few thoughts to help “buy time” until responders can access your location. Purchase fire extinguishers. A few years ago, my son came into my bedroom and said he smelled something burning. Turned out my dishwasher started a fire and the 20 year old fire extinguisher I had still worked to put out the fire. Whew! Make sure the dial on the fire extinguisher indicates “charged” or in the green. This brings up my second thought. Ensure you have working smoke detectors. Test them monthly! In addition, replace smoke detectors if they are older than 10 years. Lastly, keep blue address signs visible to help emergency responders find your location. Time is critical. Please help us help you.