It should be remembered that the new Rotorua Fire Station is further away than the old one (15.6km and about 13.5 minutes’ drive), and the onus on us to act quickly is now even greater.
We have been increasingly concerned at the delay risk in the present call-out system, and are currently investigating a direct radio-activated siren. (More on that in the next Newsletter). When a 111 call is made, the phone is locked for a short time while the “bona fides” of the call are checked. This delay is certainly a test of one’s self-control... some might feel it desirable to alert a friend before dialing 111.
The way things are, we’re facing a very serious lack of personnel to operate the organisation, and with 2 committee members soon to leave the district, the situation could arise where there is no-one capable of working the equipment, who can be located in a hurry ... and it’s not quite the same as using a mower or a chain-saw.
There is a need for more people to drop in, even if not regularly, to become familiar with some of the basic procedures. (It’s not too hard to turn up regularly) Why not bring the family to the 7.30 Wednesday practice?
REMEMBER: Fire permits are needed now for outside fires. Phone Dept. of Conservation – 479179