2024-04-30 Fire Commission Minutes

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Hawaii Fire Commission Regular Session Minutes April 30, 2024 Page 6 tankers, and one on-road tanker. Engine 14 is anticipated to arrive by the end of the year. Tentatively scheduled for December 2025 is the arrival of the new Airbus H- 145 helicopter. • Call Volume: Chief Todd referenced the breakdown of call volumes in the written report. Kailua is the busiest station, with 340 calls recorded last month, closely followed by Central with 314 calls. Commissioner Cushnie inquired about the possibility of adding a medic to either stations 21 or 7 soon, noting their extended turnaround times and high call volumes. Chief Todd indicated that while discussions have taken place regarding the addition of new medics, the focus has shifted towards implementing peak medics. Given that most calls occur during daylight hours, the proposal involves staffing a second ambulance specifically during those times. However, currently, the problem lies with funding. Additionally, Chief Todd highlighted the challenges related to the wear and tear as well as the ongoing repairs required for ambulances. Commissioner Cushnie clarified that he was inquiring about staffing a second unit rather than acquiring a new physical ambulance. Chief Todd stated that both staffing and funding for additional units are provided by the State and need to be included in the budget. Commissioner Cushnie asked about lobbying efforts for EMS needs, Chief Todd detailed his efforts, including regular visits to various representatives and senators' offices to advocate for funding. Additionally, Chief Honda participates in similar lobbying efforts periodically. Chief Todd also engages with County Council and representatives at the county level. He reiterated that addressing staffing shortages is a high priority for the department, although the timeline remains uncertain. Commissioner Mattos inquired whether obtaining a medic solely relies on the State or if a private donor could contribute. Chief Todd explained that they had a private donor willing to donate a new ambulance for Makalei, but the State declined to fund the necessary positions. He noted that the costliest aspects are not the equipment itself but rather the staffing, maintenance, and ongoing operational expenses associated with keeping the unit operational. • Support Services: o Emergency Medical Services Branch: Paramedic students have completed their first rotation, with another class set to conclude in August, that'll be going out onto the line. FMS promotions will be announced shortly. EMT clinical rotations are in progress. The Supraglottic Airway device was put out in the field, and hands-on CPR training sessions have been conducted by EMS branch personnel. o Training Services Branch: Personnel completed the Fire Instructor II Certification Course and attended a forty-hour ProBoard certification course