2004 Performance Based Budget - Laserfiche WebLink

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oversee ...all firefighting efforts and to supervise the thirty self supplying municipal water cisterns located throughout South Bend" We marked the anniversary through a special Council resolution and by breaking ground on the new 56,000 sq. ft. Central Fire Station and Administrative Headquarters. This facility, ldce the Police Department offices, has been a long time. I am delighted that we are finally able to provide our Fire Department a home that reflects the quality and professionalism ofour force. This three level structure should meet the needs of the department for years into the fixture. The location of the new Central allows us to build a great partnership with Ivy Tech College. With the support of our department and both hospitals, Ivy Tech will be able to offer an ~-ssociate of Science Paramedic degree starting in the Fall of this year. Individuals currently working as paramedics can receive up to 47.5 hours of credit for their previous training. We're glad to be a partner in this and look forward to other opportunities for training with Ivy Tech. W'e will continue to expand and improve training for our firefighters. The recruit class which gradual:ed in June received twenty weeks of training. They will carry on the proud tradition of a truly professional fire department. Back in 1853, the first fire station in South Bend was equipped with a fire engine and a hose cart purchased for $1,000 and was stared by volunteers. Last year we purchased two new pumpers for $670,000, one of them is the dEpartment's first truck to have Compressed Air Foam Systems. This is the latest technology in fighting Class "A" fires. It uses a combination of water, foam and compressed air to extinguish ordinary combushble materials with better results than water alone. CAFS has greater fire stream reach, which allows firefighters to maintain a safer distance. It has improved ability to knock down flames, reduce smoke and improve visibility. Because it uses less water, there is often less property damage and the lines are lighter and easier to move. As we strive to keep our apparatus in top condition, we refurbished a Medic Unit last year, and will do two more in 2004. This is less expensive than buying new. We are able to extend the life of these vehicles because we bought quality equipment to begin with. Both Police and Fire have been actively engaged in terrorism preparedness. Our Haz Mat Team has been designated to cover eight counties of Region 2. The State has provided a special A-30