[HFDlist] Brush Fire Updates

[Sean Smith]

All,

Few updates regarding brush fire incidents-

1- The Department bought a new Stihl backpack blower, which is on 
Forestry 1. Using a backpack blower is a great tool especially fighting 
running ground cover fires. Reminder this serves as a quick knock down 
on the running fire, but requires a hose line or water pack to 
completely extinguish the fire. Please review the backpack blower 
operation. We have provided a great video link showing the best uses for 
this technique.

https://youtu.be/j4FTBp9jX44

2- We have been working with the various groups to update our gate key 
access. Car 1, 2, 3, 5 and Forestry 1 now all have a set with keys to 
the DCR gates, Town locks (2246 locks), and Worcester Water Gates (Keys 
B. B1 and M). Working on getting some more keys from the conservation 
groups in town. Sr FF Pescaro is working on a project with update trail 
maps and access points around Town, which should be completed for the 
spring fire season.

3- Please remember to wear brush gear whenever possible. This protects 
uniforms and provides a rated fire barrier. Brush helmets are especially 
important while working in the woods. There have been several 
firefighters injured and killed recently by falling branches. Also, when 
working under the district and state mobilization groups, proper PPE is 
a requirement for all firefighters. If you need brush gear, please see 
your Captain to coordinate.

4- Equipment- The Department has ordered over $9,000 worth of equipment 
to replace what is missing or broken. As you can imagine, brush 
equipment is in high demand, so not expecting to receive it until winter.

Thanks for your attention with this and hope for some precipitation!!!

Sean