DUNBARTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT-2003
This past year was another busy and challenging year for
our department. Medical emergencies increased 36 % over 2002 calls with many of
these being of a serious nature. Other emergencies our members handled included
everything from cold water rescues to a mail box fire. Training in both fire
and emergency medical fields were attended by our members both in house and at
outside agencies. Time spent training accounts for hundreds of hours annually.
Home sprinkler systems were installed in several new
homes this past year and several more are planned. Residential sprinklers are
the most effective way to protect your family and home against fire. Home
sprinklers are the next generation in fire safety with our town being one of
only a hand full of towns in our state that have adopted them. I am proud of
our town officials for having the foresight to incorporate a sprinkler
ordinance into our building codes.
Our fire safety and prevention program was once again
presented to the students at the Elementary School and to pre-school children
at Day Care homes during National Fire Prevention Week.
The Dunbarton Volunteer Firefighters Association held its
annual chicken barbeque in June. Funds raised from this event were spent to
purchase a new rescue sled and rescue equipment, paint the sign on the station
and help repair a vehicle. I would like to thank the association for their
donations and for all the people who attended, supported or worked at this
event.
Funds are being requested this year to replace one of our
two Engines. This piece of apparatus is twenty five years old and is no longer
reliable or meets the current safety standards. Our members would like your
support for this vehicle.
I would like to thank all our members for their dedicated
service to the citizens of Dunbarton, to the Board of
Selectmen, all town departments and employees, and all the citizens who have
helped or supported the fire department in 2003.
Respectfully
submitted,
Jonathan Wiggin
Fire Chief