8984-R2_NewGloucester_2023-2024_AnnualReport_Web

Fire Prevention and Training In addition to our 911 responses, Captain Chris Gill worked diligently to continue to improve our Fire Prevention program. We were able to visit both Memorial and Dunn School, host our annual Open House and Chick en BBQ, and expand our fire prevention program to many other members of our community. In November, 2023, NGFR in collaboration with BLING and the Red Cross installed 82 smoke detectors in 33 homes. One month later, we responded to a carbon monoxide emergency where the occupant was alerted by one of those smoke detectors. As we head into FY 25, we look to continue our mission of prevention and safety within our community. Training continues to be a large part of our operation. In FY 24, mem bers completed a total of 1,281 cumulative hours of training. This training included a joint live-fire training with Gray, driver and pump operations classes, classes on firefighting tactics, and classes on special operations. After completing a rope rescue training with Gray in May, 2024, we were able to place in service our rope rescue equipment. This allows us to give our community a more well-rounded response. Conclusion In conclusion, FY 24 provided a variety of unique challenges, some of which we have never seen before in the nearly 100-year history of our department. The scope of the fire service continues to grow to meet the “all-hazards” mission the public expects, and preparedness is one thing that cannot be slept on. The day may come where any one of us could be on the end of that 911 call. For our dedicated members, that provides the motivation to continually improve our craft and provide the best service we can for our community.

Respectfully submitted,

Hale Fitzgerald, Deputy Chief of Operations

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