2023-09-28 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes September 28, 2023 Page 6 handled 19 record requests this month, emphasizing the need to re-hire for this role to keep up with requests. Several significant purchasing projects are in progress, including airbags, extrication tools, beds, and exercise equipment. The vehicle maintenance shop completed 83 repairs, addressed 26 trouble calls, and outsourced 11 repairs and tows. In the next month or two for next fiscal year, they'll ask for the expansion of their mechanics, with the goal of establishing a mechanic shop in West Hawaii for the next fiscal year. Additional discussions encompassed grants, the acquisition of more brush trucks, insurance protection classifications, and concerns about the safety of older fire trucks. Commissioner Nakashima inquired about the age of Engine 12, and Chief Todd indicated that he didn't have that information at hand but could provide it later. Commissioner Nakashima then questioned why it wasn't being repaired under warranty, to which Chief Todd responded that the repair details would need to be examined. Commissioner Mattos asked if the warranty process needed to go through the specific mechanic designated by the engine manufacturer and inquired if HFD's ex- deputy chief was responsible for these repairs. Chief Todd clarified that he believes the ex-deputy chief primarily functions as a salesman and has been involved with some truck-related matters, but he's uncertain if he handles the repairs. In response to the question of why the repair process takes time, Chief Todd explained that the timeline depends on various factors, such as the vehicle in question and the specific circumstances. • Information Technology Highlights: Ongoing efforts include MDT (Mobile Data Terminal) installations. The IT team is also working on upgrading the Viper system (Intrado). Notably, the current Records Management System (RMS) is being replaced with EPR Fireworks, which is a cloud-based, online system with numerous modules. This new system eliminates the need for the IT department's direct involvement in upgrades and updates, streamlining operations. Chair Kosaki inquired about the training memo related to SCBA maintenance, specifically noting the presence of volunteers. He questioned why volunteers were being trained when they were not receiving SCBAs. Chief Todd clarified that the volunteers were equipped with 3M masks and side cartridges requiring fit testing before issuance. Due to capacity constraints, the decision was made to involve them in the team to qualify them for fit testing. While they are not currently authorized to use SCBAs in fires due to the extensive training and liability considerations, the department is taking a cautious approach.