Port Sydney Fire Station 5 donates funding for equipment purchases
Huntsville General Committee approved a donation for equipment purchases for Fire Station 5 in Port Sydney, in the September 25, 2024, meeting.
According to a report by Deputy Fire Chief, Paul Calleja, the equipment includes a Thermal Imaging Camera (TIC) at the cost of $9300, and two portable light stands for scene lighting for a total of $1,600.
Calleja indicated that majority of the costs for the equipment will be covered by donations raised by the Station. He said, “The Port Sydney Fire Fighter Association raises funds throughout the year to assist with enhancing the department equipment.”
This year’s funds will go towards the new equipment as a donation to the Town, adds the report.
It indicates that staff recommended that the items be added to the Fire Department’s Capital Plan “with an additional $930 added to the Fire Capital Funding in the draft 2025 budget for the levy.”
The report continues, “The equipment available plays an important role in the efficiency of the department and the overall safety of each member.”
The goal of the additional equipment is “to improve the level of responsibility to their community and assist with the safety of the members when responding to emergencies,” according to the report.
It also indicates that factors influencing the purchases include development growth, new technology, wear on older equipment, a need for more equipment during multiple calls requiring the same use, and providing back up when there are issues with the older equipment.
The report indicates that there are currently two cameras at Station 1 and one at Station 5.
The new light stands will allow for improvements because of advances in technology which will help with illumination, portability – being cordless, decreased weight, and the old equipment will need replacing soon, adds the report.
Deputy Mayor, Dan Armour, inquired about whether the existing camera they have is due for replacement in the Capital Plan.
Calleja said it still has 4 years left on it. They’ve had it for 6 years. “There’s a 10-year cycle for it.”
