Deep River Firehouse Roof Damage, New Station Plans Discussed By Fire Commissioners

DEEP RIVER, CT — Structural damage to the existing firehouse roof and discussions about the location of a proposed new fire station were among the topics addressed by the Deep River Board of Fire Commissioners at its Nov. 2 meeting.

Fire Chief Tim Lee reported that he had contacted the first selectman about water damage, rot and structural problems affecting the southwest corner of the firehouse roof. The town's building inspector subsequently contacted a roofing contractor to obtain an estimate for repairs.

Subscribe

Commissioners also discussed the Deep River Firehouse Building Committee and the proposed location of a new firehouse. The committee had attended a Board of Selectmen meeting to provide an update on the building project.

Board Chairman David Berardis said he had contacted the first selectman with questions concerning the department's brush truck and the River Street Station. He said he would update commissioners after receiving a response.

Fire Apparatus And Equipment

Chief Engineer Tom Lee reported that the department's tanker truck had been repaired and returned to service.

He also said construction of the department's new fire engine appeared to be ahead of schedule. Lee reported receiving photographs of the newly painted chassis.

Commissioners discussed the costs associated with transferring emergency radios and lighting equipment between officers' personal vehicles.

Deputy Chief and Fire Marshal Adam Kerop has been unable to use his personal truck for department calls and activities and has instead been using the department's Chevrolet Tahoe.

Firefighter Training And Department Activities

Chief Tim Lee reported that junior firefighters had participated in three training sessions with neighboring departments, learning different skills at each session.

A senior department member accompanied the junior firefighters in a fire apparatus during the training activities. Lee said he had offered to sponsor a training session at the Deep River Fire Department.

Kerop reported that the department participated in a live-burn training exercise in Old Saybrook and would attempt to attend another before the end of the year.

He also discussed firefighter physical examinations, telling department members they could schedule appointments through Middlesex or Yale.

The department's next quarterly breakfast was scheduled for Nov. 15.

Fire Marshal Reports 15 Calls

Kerop reported 15 calls during September, including motor vehicle accidents, emergency medical service calls, fire alarms, a marine incident and a smoke investigation.

He also reported that installation of a tank at the junior high school had been completed.

As part of Fire Prevention Month, Kerop visited numerous local facilities. He also issued one burn permit and one blasting permit.

Commission Approves Meeting Schedule

Commissioners unanimously approved the board's meeting schedule following a motion by Chief Lee and a second by Kerop.

The board also unanimously approved the minutes of its Oct. 5 meeting following a motion by Lee and a second by Commissioner Sean Scott.

Commissioners reviewed the department's current budget and reported no issues. They also discussed invoices, financial matters and potential conflicts of interest.

Berardis chaired the meeting, which began at 7:05 p.m. The board voted unanimously to adjourn at 7:52 p.m.