Greetings Everyone,

I can’t believe that January is over, and that we are already moving into February. The month of January has been a busy one. We stepped up our training program to two nights a week, advisory committee meetings every other week, squeezed in an officer meeting, as well as continuing to provide response for medical calls, and assistance on fire calls. Our focus on training this month has been; getting to know each other better, familiarization with our gear & self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), teamwork, and allowing the new leadership to develop a deeper understanding of the strengths and qualifications that our personnel bring forth to the table.

As we head deeper into the winter, and the snow begins to pile up, please remember to make sure all vents for your furnace, stove, fireplaces and dryers are clear of snow and other debris.  A plugged vent can lead to dangerous and/or deadly levels of carbon monoxide in your house, as well as inefficient operation of your appliances.  Additionally if you have not already, install carbon monoxide alarms outside each separate sleeping area, on every level of your home.  If you have installed carbon monoxide alarms, ensure that the batteries have been replaced in the last six months and run a test cycle monthly to ensure that they are working properly.  If you are experiencing headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion, these may be signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.  When in doubt, call 911.  Here is a link to the CDC FAQ page regarding carbon monoxide: https://www.cdc.gov/co/faqs.htm

As we move into February, our trainings will be focusing on; safety and hazard recognition, communications and radio usage, proficiency of operating our apparatus (ie; driving, pumping, etc.), recognizing different stages of fire behavior and development, fire attack strategies, search and rescue techniques, ventilation practices, water supply, and CPR/ AED training.  We have also been extended an invitation from the Guilford Volunteer Fire Department to have us join them for a Saturday of cold water rescue training. 

Thank you for your continuing support, and please do not hesitate to reach out to me personally with any questions, comments or concerns.

Thank You,

Alex Dunklee
Chief, Vernon Volunteer Fire Department
413.522.5234