JANUARY 2018 MONTHLY R E P O R T

It is amazing how quickly January has gone by as we continue to work on the two year budget / CIP and 2017 Annual Report. This month has been slightly above average in temperature, dry and with minor fog. Our calls for service started out similar to last year and if we do not get more moisture we will easily slip back into drought conditions and a long hot summer will make for a seriously dangerous fire season. We continue to get thank you cards and letters from both Santa Rosa and Ventura for our assistance in the catastrophic fires that both areas experienced last year. Hopefully this year will not see a repeat of the cycle of fires and heavy rains that caused so much damage to life and property.

We had a significant haz-mat incident involving a propane truck and car on west bound 198 at the Ben Mad- dox Overpass. The incident went well and there were no injuries or long term damage to the environment. The incident was handled by a unified command structure of the participating agencies and our Haz Mat Team. The highway was closed for approximately 3 hours and all agencies worked together well with the common goal of safety for all concerned.

Four promotions were made in the month to cover the retirements of Captain Larry Garcia in late December and Captain Teresa Lovero in early January. We wish our retiring Captains the best as they enter this next chapter. Robert Briggs and Tony Colbert were promoted to Captain and Chris Okland and Shaun Spra- dling were promoted to Engineer Paramedic. Congratulations to all and best of luck. Hopefully we will get some much needed moisture over the remaining winter months. Flu season has also been severe and many of our folks have been ill. So hopefully this will improve over the coming month as well.

Take care and be safe. Doug McBee

Page 2

DUSTIN HALL SUPPORT SERVICES

The department started the year busier than last year. Call volume for January was up from last year during the same time period by approximately 60 more incidents. Whether it is planning, budgets, training, staffing, or simply answering the public’s request for service, it is busy. Budget season is in full swing and staff is diligently working on planning the next two year budget cycle with a priority to meet the needs of the public, while remaining fiduciary responsible. Visalia has been fortu- nate in that it continues to grow; unfortunately a larger population places additional stress on an already stressed response system. Fire staff is continuing to evaluate all options related to response models and how to ensure effective response to the pub- lics increasing demands. This year’s flu season has been one for the record books and the Visalia area has not been immune from the negative effects of a large population getting sick. Our local hospital, Kaweah Delta Medical Center, has been heavily impacted. At times, there have been as many as 15 ambulances waiting to transfer care of their pa- tients to hospital staff, but are unable to because of the number of patients already at the hospital. This is an issue that all parts of the country have to deal with. Fortunately for the citizens of Visalia, the is ready, trained, and equipped to respond to medical emergencies where seconds matter. A sentiment that, in part, lives through the Department’s Mission Statement; “The Visalia Fire Department is dedicated to protect- ing all through excellent service.”

During this year’s hurricane season, there were numerous catastrophes across the globe, medical equipment supplies have been disrupted and supplies have been difficult to procure; the ripple effects have been felt in Visalia. Staff is working closely with our suppliers and our local authorities to keep everyone in constant com- munication. Although the effects have been felt locally, staff has been able to minimize the negative effects of these catastrophes. With effective ordering practices, maintaining close relationships with suppliers, and pro- active measures developed over the years, VFD continues to remain in a state of readiness to answer the call.

Furthermore, there are several personnel completing various aspects of their probationary process. Whether it is for , engineer, or captain, the department is driven to ensure each member is able to successfully pass and complete the required periodic testing. Firefighter Paramedics are evaluated every six months on a variety of topics that range from equipment familiarization, protocols, and interventions that are applied to the appropriate situation.

Captain Wilkinson has successfully completed his first full month as the Department’s Prehospital Liaison Officer. Meetings are being planned with PLOs from allied agencies with whom the department responds with to ensure good, effective communication. A good, proactive relationship with our counterparts is what ensures good response to the publics’ needs. Page 3 FROM THEDUSTIN DESK OF HALL DUSTIN HALL SUPPORTSUPPORT SERVICESSERVICES BATTALIONBATTALION CHIEFCHIEF

On the topic of EMS training, staff has been busy designing a more effective plan. VFD has expanded its presence in the EMS training realm by offering classes more often. This helps ensure that VFD paramedics have more choices of when they can take continuing education hours/classes, as well as allowing outside stu- dents to participate. The VFD cadre of instructors prides themselves on providing high standard education, realizing that the students they teach may one day work on a family or friend. In January, the EMS topic changed slightly; instead of having just one topic, staff provided two topics, a basic and an advance topic. As this format gets fully implemented, staff will reevaluate its effectiveness to ensure it meets the desired results. January also brought a retrospective look at training topics completed. It was determined that there were a couple of personnel who needed to complete specific training that was missed; they have now been completed. I would like to thank Captain Macumber and his crew for working diligently on updating and improving the Department’s EMS training.

Department paramedics continue to evaluate the three laptops that will be used in the field to collect and doc- ument patient information and the care provided. The current equipment in service has exceeded its service life and the timeline for full replacement is by the first part of April. More to come… Speaking of technolo- gy, work continued on the revaluation process of the Department’s communication program. Currently, both communication and technology is managed by one person. With the expansion of both programs, staff be- lieves it is in the best interest of the organization as well as the public we serve to separate them.

Staff has completed both the Engineer and Captain promotional process, as well as the testing, interviewing, and selection of five candidates for Firefighter Paramedic. All five names have been forwarded to the back- ground phase; there are currently four positions open.

“I have enjoyed working with and learning from the great people for the past 29 years, and I am ready to move on with the next phase of my life. It has truly been a wonderful expe- rience and I will miss everyone.” -Teresa Lovero,

Jan 14, 1989 - Jan 5, 2018 Page 4 JANUARY 2018 STATS

Threatened by Fire $935,950 Fire Loss $46,000 Value Saved $889,950

The department has seen an increase in overtime costs due to coverage for five va- cancies and many long term and work- men’s comp absenc- es. Page 5

FROM THE DESK OF DANNY WRISTEN

A SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) During January, there were no repairs needed for SCBA units. This is because last month the annual bench testing was completed and all SCBA units were repaired. We researched the annual calibration process for the Fit Testing Machine and will be sending it out for cali- bration.

Apparatus In January there were 6 rigs sent to the shop for repair. Notable repairs are as follows:  E 253 transmission was checked for shifting hard between gears, rig was sent to Valley Power in Fresno for transmission work and retarder. An engine oil leak was repaired, the foam system was checked for proper operation and the window regulator in the captain’s door was replaced.  E56 front brakes were adjusted, the pump primer was repaired and the recirculation valve was rebuilt.  T51 had three door alarm switches replaced, new LED lights were installed on the ladder tip, rear compartments on both sides had cracks that were repaired and the generator was serviced.  T251 had the waterway seals on the ladder pipe replaced.  E51 had the heater core fail causing coolant to flood the cab from the roof. Water damage was sustained to the power inverter, radio speaker and several books and binders in the cab.  The new 54 was placed in service at 54. Old Fire Engine 54 was moved into reserve status and Fire Engine (222423) was removed from the fleet. OES 375 has been out of service needing several repairs and annual service. The rig has been delivered to South Coast EVG in Paso Robles. All rigs are current with their DOT inspections.

Maps / Ladders / Foam / Station and Office Supplies During the month, we completed the new foam contract and ordered replacement foam. All office supply orders were approved, ordered, and distributed to the fire stations. The City Safety ladder inspection process was started and we are waiting to receive all of the inspection forms back from the crews.

Technical Rescue Program T-51-A officially took over the rescue program from Captain Fricke. It is quite a learning curve and a lot to get a handle on yet we’ve made a strong start, getting a grip on inventory, purchasing, budgeting, records, and training to name a few. A meeting was conducted with Chief Wristen identifying needs and goals for the program.  In January five new life-line ropes were placed in service on front line apparatus while the old ones were downgrad- ed to utility rope status.  A full complement of new rope rescue equipment was purchased for the new E-54 (440)  A supply of new personal escape rope bags and rope were purchased to replace the worn and failing ones in service.  The Hi-Lift jack on T-51 (436) had parts ordered and repaired upon arrival.  The spreadsheet of all fire personnel was updated and new names were added. We are working to obtain and update all rescue certifications of all personnel. Then to have this data available on the spreadsheet to track the strengths and needs of the department regarding rescue.

Page 6 FROM THE DESK OF DARRIN HUGHES B SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

Small Engines Equipment Tools Program (SEET) This month the SEET Program repaired and/or replaced the following items:

 New SL20 sent to Engine 251 – old light was placed out of service due to damage  New SL20 sent to Engine 56 – old light was placed out of service due to damage  SL20 and charger installed on Engine 56 for Engineer seat  TNT hydraulic fluid sent to Station 51  Replacement adjustment knobs installed on two Circle-D lights

Additionally, staff has been working with a representative from Bullard regarding re- pairs to five thermal imaging cameras. There are several options to explore, including replacement of all five units with refurbished ones. Quotes have been received for the annual Hurst service and the process should begin in March. We are also working with TNT Company to repair a damaged power unit and hydraulic hose.

Quartermaster Program During January the quartermaster crew sent structure and wildland PPE pieces to ECMS for repairs. Captain Cromer followed up with Curtis regarding the Reedley FD contract and also started the process for purchasing new personal protective equipment for two new hires. Uniforms were issued to the new fire chaplain and t- shirts were ordered for our fleet mechanics. Surplus uniform and PPE items were prepared for destruction or donation.

Hazardous Materials Program In January the RAD 60 monitors returned from calibration and are back in service on the rescue trailer. Two TX1 monitors were purchased and placed in service. Hazcat supplies are being identified and will be pur- chased. New sensors for the MX-6 monitors were purchased and calibration gases were ordered to continue to calibrate all of the specialized monitors carried on this apparatus.

The hazardous materials team assisted Exeter with Hazmat ID of commercial dairy testing vials that were found in several locations. The team also responded to the overturned propane tanker on Highway 198 during the month of January.

Facilities Program In January, the major service requests submitted were for the apparatus bay floor drains not draining properly; they have since been repaired. The flooring on the first and second floor of Fire Station 52 was installed and completed.

Page 7 FROM THE DESK OF BRIAN ADNEY C SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

Pre-Plans

Captain Lovero, who was in charge of the Pre-Plan Program retired during the month of January. Program management training took place between Captain Lovero and En- gineer Herlihy to continue the Pre-Plan Program Management. One preplan was sub- mitted by Prevention officer Corbin Reed. Pre-Plan assignments for 2018 are being developed.

Strike Team Program is operating effectively and efficiently. We are in the process of evaluating equipment needs and replacement for the upcoming fire season.

Hose and Appliances Fire Personnel outfitted the new fire engine (Engine 54) with the department’s standard hose and appliance compliment including the straps for 2 hose bundles and a wild land hose pack was purchased. We also invento- ried the remaining spare stock of hose at station 55, the balance of which was ordered to complete one en- gine’s worth of hose in inventory. The bid and contract for hose testing was submitted. We followed up with the hydrant bag replacements; they are due to be picked up January 31st to be reviewed to ensure they are the quality and durability we are looking for before moving forward with purchasing. A 25’ section of 5” hose for the spare hose inventory was assembled this month. Lastly a Stortz cap on Truck 251was replaced.

On January 19, 2018, at 9:02am, the Visalia Fire Department was dispatched to a Traffic Accident involving a propane delivery truck on westbound Hwy 198 at Ben Maddox. One of the vehicles in- volved was a propane delivery truck, which was rolled over on its side, with a visible propane leak from the back of the truck. The Cal- ifornia Highway Patrol and the Visalia Police Department were also on the scene. Due to the potential for an explosion, both westbound and eastbound Hwy 198 were quickly closed, and initial actions in- volved evacuating all civilian vehicles stuck on the highway behind the traffic accident.

FROM THE DESK OF KURTIS BROWN Page 8

Inspections During January, the Prevention Division and Engine Companies conducted 324 in- spections. A total of $13,028 in Operational Permit fees were billed during the month.

Property Maintenance The Fire Prevention Division initiates cases and performs inspections on property maintenance cases throughout the entire year with a heavy emphasis during the summer months. Property maintenance cases are started on properties with trash, junk and or debris, weeds and any other items that can constitute a fire hazard. Many properties where cases are started are vacant undeveloped lots, but cases can also be started on vacant or occupied homes and commercial properties. Throughout January, the Prevention Division conducted 38 initial and 29 follow-up inspections on property maintenance cases. Prevention staff also filed 6 Declarations of Public Nuisance notices with cost recovery fees of $1,466. Staff also authorized the department's weed abatement contractor to abate 3 properties.

Fire Investigations During January, members of the Fire Investigation Team investigated one fire; engine company personnel also performed three preliminary origin and cause investigations.

Public Education Engine Company staff completed tours, visitations, and presentations. The department provided this service to approximately 2,100 people in the community. Twelve community members participated in the depart- ment’s ride-a-long program.

Site Plan Report The Visalia Fire Department is a member of the Site Plan Review Committee. The committee reviews plans and operational statements, for proposed businesses, operations and future constructions projects throughout the community. Lists of comments are provided to applicants from each member of the committee to assist the applicants with their project. In January, staff reviewed 20 plans submitted to the committee.

Special Events The fire department is responsible for guiding community members through the Special Events application process. There were five special events that took place in January, Visalia Pal Resolution 5K, Boys & Girls MLK Walk, ACT for Women and Girls, Homeless Alliance, Catfish Derby.

Page 9 FROM THE DESK OF DEREK FRICKE TRAINING CAPTAIN

January training started with good intentions and then a few interruptions. Interruptions from weather and an unexpected trip for me hampered efforts to complete Confined Space Refresher Training that has been pushed into February. While weather should not be a huge consideration, it causes unnecessary damage to our technical hardware. Consequently, A shift’s training was postponed. B and C shifts have been successful in completing the Confined Space evolutions. We will plan to reschedule A shift into late February or early March.

Despite the schedule changes, captains reported 1030 hours of training for January with two captains still remaining to complete their training reports. Thank you for continu- ing your ongoing company training.

Unified Response to Active Shooter and field exercises with VPD was covered once again at the end of the month. There were some very good ideas generated from this training exercise that I hope to address in the near future. Several ideas from those who are in the know and who are currently providing such training have been brought to light. I hope to address the ideas and issues that were identified in the near future.

February Training

February promises to be another busy month with live fire exercises planned for each shift. Additionally, we are using the opportunity to place another check mark on the Training Goals list by conducting the training at night. This will be the first of two night drills I hope to accomplish in 2018.

Confined Space Operations/Technician refresher will continue into February. We will also conduct EMT and paramedic continuing education.

March Training

Look into March to continue training on live fire evolutions as there at not enough training days to accommo- date what we need to accomplish. We are also going to cover the specialized equipment carried on Truck 51. If you have ideas for March training in regards to the special equipment carried, please let me know. I could use the help.

In closing remember:

“Anything you do, any task you perform, any product you make, it’s just like signing your name.”

Kenney Misner Page 10 FROM THE COMMUNITY