7548-R1_NewGloucester_2019-2020_AnnualReport_Web

ANNUAL REPORT Fire & Rescue

2019-2020 was a year for growth at New Gloucester Fire & Rescue (NGFR). The NGFR continues to dedicate all its efforts to meet the service needs of our great community. We are constantly reminded of the delicate balance of service delivery and organizational wellness. In 2019 Chief Toby Martin promoted Craig Bouchard to the rank of Deputy Chief of Fire, Lt. Hale Fitzgerald to Captain, Pvt. Chris Gill to Lieutenant and Pvt. Eric Beaulieu to Lieutenant. In 2020 the town accepted the resignation of Chief Toby Martin after one year of service. In the transition the town promoted Deputy Chief Bouch ard to Acting Chief. With the help of EMS Chief Mary Rich and the officers of New Gloucester Fire Rescue, Acting Chief Bouchard continued to ad vance the department in a positive direction. The NGFR is currently in a different position with COVID 19. The depart ment saw a move to all remote training and a limitation of station visitation by members and the public. COVID also brought on the need for addition al personnel protective equipment on all EMS calls, a burden that not only has influenced procedures but also impacted the department monetarily. Residents no longer must visit the fire station for burn permits and can acquire them from the comfort of home via www.wardensreport.com at no cost. The town purchased a new Utility truck for the department in 2020 replac ing an aged utility truck that needed major rust and mechanical repairs. The department utilized on duty staff to mount and run wires for the emer gency lights and sirens on the new 2020 Chevy Silverado 2500. Chief Payson of North Yarmouth helped do the final touches to complete the light and siren package. Taking this approach saved the department thou sands in installation costs. As NGFR continues to mature the per-diem program to meet the ex pectation of the community, we are very proud that in year one we have maintained the ability to provided Advanced Life Support (ALS) coverage all 365 days. As we move forward through year two and beyond, we are working diligently to meet those expectations set forth by the community.

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