Greetings Everyone,

I hope you are all doing well, and that you are remaining healthy. I would like to offer you a brief update as to the current status of the Vernon Volunteer Fire Department. 

Myself, Assistant Chief Spencer Bristol, Deputy Chief Rounds, as well as the Advisory Committee have spent the past couple of months reviewing the resources that we have available, meeting the membership, and putting forth a training schedule that will allow us to move forward, and be fully functional as soon as reasonably achievable.  At this time, Brattleboro, Guilford & Bernardston are continuing to provide direct response coverage for fire related calls to our town.  All departments have been extremely supportive through this process, and are truly dedicated to ensuring that our town remains safe through this transition period.

As we move into the New Year, we will be starting again with a consistent training schedule.  Our main focus for the next Month, will be getting to know our personnel more in depth, gaining a deeper understanding of their knowledge skills and abilities, and conducting training to increase proficiency at all levels of membership.

During the heating season, please keep in mind the dangers associated with using space heaters.  Always check all cords and the condition of the unit prior to use.  Plug heating units directly into an outlet, never into an extension cord or power strip.  Place all portable heating units on a stable surface, no less than 3 feet from objects which may burn.

On a personal note, as we head deeper into the winter months, the holidays have passed, and as COVID continues to keep us all distanced, it is my hope that as a community we continue to brainstorm ideas that allow for us to remain connected in a positive manner.  I have been encouraged by our communities’ response to these challenging times, and the various unique ways that we have been able to come together and enjoy things that we may not have been able to under previous circumstances. 

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