By Stephanie Zwick
The Limon Fire Protection District board convened on Wednesday, February 11th, to review operational updates, discuss policy matters, and address community engagement initiatives. The meeting focused on ongoing department activities, board member appointments, equipment maintenance, grant applications, and key decisions impacting both the fire district and local stakeholders.
During the meeting, the board was informed that Kerigan Kappel has been approved as a Limon town board trustee following Thursday night’s meeting and the canceling of the election in April. This dual role raised concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest, as both the fire board and the town share the same legal representation. To ensure transparency and avoid legal complications, the fire board agreed to seek additional legal counsel. Kappel assured the board that he would abstain from voting on any matter where a conflict of interest arises between the town and the fire board.
Assistant Fire Chief Jason Farley reported that one of the department’s trucks requires repairs due to a newly discovered transmission fluid leak and a potential slow air leak. The board acknowledged these maintenance needs and outlined plans to address the issues promptly to ensure continued operational readiness.
Fire Chief Corrin Perry updated the board on recent efforts to secure funding for department improvements. She has applied for a grant to obtain additional bunker gear and is exploring the Volunteer Fire Assistance grant to help cover training costs for the department.
Chief Perry also shared insights from the recent fire chiefs meeting, which was attended by 30 regional chiefs. The meeting centered on state-provided fire mitigation codes that are to be implemented through out the state. Concerns were raised about enforcement challenges in rural areas and limited educational outreach regarding the codes’ purpose by the state. Perry emphasized that regional adoption is unlikely for Lincoln County and noted that a resolution or policy concerning mitigation codes must be presented to the board by April. She continues to develop the necessary documentation for board consideration as she feels that it would be a benefit to the town and the county.
Ongoing training efforts with Fire One Academy are progressing well, with eight members currently participating. Upon completion of Fire One Academy, members will advance to Fire Two Academy training to further enhance departmental expertise. Continued progress with the cadet program is ongoing.
The board discussed the season’s first structure fire call, evaluating response strategies and identifying areas for improvement. Additional training for similar incidents would help those potentially being put in a command position. Communication is a key area that can always be worked on so that the next call runs smoother and everyone that is responding is on the same page and understands what their roll is when they arrive on seen. The additional assistance from other departments with water and personal helped in the quick knockdown of the fire despite the building and its contents being a total loss. The cause and timing of the fire were also reviewed, highlighting the importance of early-year readiness and what this dry year could mean for the fire department and others.
A thorough discussion was held regarding the department’s protocols for responding to medical calls. The board addressed potential liability issues when responding to calls outside typical fire department responsibilities unless requested by EMS, emphasizing the current policies that are in place to mitigate risks. While discussing these matters it was also brought to the board’s attention that some of the volunteers that are on shift at the department are seeking additional activities to keep them from going a bit stir crazy. Some of the recommendations were to potentially look into additional training through lifting weights and workouts while other suggestions were more along the lines of gaming systems that could improve one’s readiness through simulation, other areas of work while at the station were suggested.
Chief Perry announced plans for the fire department to visit Aspen Leaf Assisted Living Home on Saturday February 14 (Valentines Day). The outreach effort will include delivering flowers and cookies to residents, demonstrating the department’s commitment to community engagement and support for those who may be overlooked.
The treasurer’s report was reviewed and approved without concerns. The next board meeting is scheduled for March 11th.
