The funds from the sale will go to the district’s equipment fund. The district added two new rescue boats to their fleet in July.
The board approved applications for four new members: one for the district’s firefighter cadet program at the Prophetstown station; two volunteer firefighters for the Hooppole Fire Station; and one emergency medical responder for the ambulance department who is scheduled for emergency medical technician training.
Trustees approved spending $600 for Fire Prevention Week supplies for the schools, such as fire hats and other items, with the overall amount up by $100 from last year. Bills in the amount of $4,777.69 also were approved; trustees said they want to keep an eye on gas usage because the bills seemed higher than average.
Items on the agenda that were tabled until next month included discussing the district’s secretary/clerk/treasurer position duties and responsibilities, launching a public survey through Survey Monkey, and purchasing the Vector Solutions Training Management System. That system will have better capabilities in record-keeping and online training, with the department’s current system set to expire in December. Also tabled was purchasing front shields for fire helmets for seven officers, which cost $70 each.
In reports, Prophetstown Fire Chief Gerald Armstrong said there were 18 calls in August, the radio construction permit was filed, some members completed state required training, and the pancake breakfast on Sept. 3 was a success. School inspections will be Oct. 4, and a pump test is planned for Oct. 19.
An audit with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration will be scheduled in the coming months. Department members identified a few items in need of attention before the inspection. The captain’s report included information about a solar tax credit, an air leak in the compressor that needs to be fixed, and an invitation for department members to participate in a house burn training in Annawan.
Hooppole Fire Department reported a successful Aug. 26 water fight tournament. Hooppole firefighters trained on ladders, ropes and knots last month, and will be working on driver training this month. Annawan Fire Department asked about bringing a firetruck to their Homecoming parade, with the board agreeing to sending a tender to show support.
Lyndon had no reports but noted the fire district’s annual picnic.
Ambulance Department trustees approved meeting minutes, bills in the amount of $33,481.56, the treasurer’s report, and the ambulance administrator’s report. There were 54 calls in August, with new membership stepping up to help fill shifts. Trustees also discussed COVID-19 precautions on medical calls. If a patient has COVID or it’s suspected, first responders will put on full protective equipment and take all precautions. CGH Medical Center has provided gowns and N-95 masks, and Hooppole has a surplus of protective equipment for use.
The next meeting of the Prophetstown Fire Protection District Board of Trustees will be Monday, Oct. 9 at 7 p.m. at the fire station.
By Sarah Ford, AP Staff Writer
