HomeMy WebLinkAboutFD-23-99
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Meeting:
Date:
Report #:
Subject:
THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CLARINGTON
REPORT
Plio
Res &/1-.035-31
GENERAL PURPOSE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
File #
NOVEMBER 15, 1999
FD-23-99
10.12.9
By-law #
GREEN FLASHING LIGHTS FOR PART-TIME FIREFIGHTERS
RECOMMENDATIONS:
It is respectfully recommended that the General Purpose and Administration Committee
recommend to Council the following:
1.) THAT report Fd-23-99 be received;
2.) THAT the use of green flashing lights by part-time firefighters, commencing
January 1,2000, be approved;
3.) THAT advertisements be placed in local newspapers to advise the residents ofthe
Municipality that part-time firefighters will be using the green flashing lights as of
January 1, 2000; and
4.) THAT a copy of this report be forwarded to the Durham Regional Police, 16
Division.
BACKGROUND
The use of green flashing lights by part-time firefighters was approved and accepted by
the Ministry of Transportation a few years ago. The Clarington Fire Department did not
readily accept the use of such lights as it was new and at the time unproven in its'
effectiveness. There were also concerns related to any abuse that could occur.
Recently, the part-time District Chiefs approached the department and requested that we
review the issue. We have done so and have done follow up investigations regarding the
use of these lights by those firefighters who wish to use them.
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COMMENTS
Discussions with the Durham Regional Police have suggested it could be a positive
action. The use of the green flashing lights would make the vehicles more readily
identifiable. This would assist in following up complaints made to police, by citizens,
regarding firefighters' response to the station for emergency calls.
Staff also carried out discussions with the three volunteer departments within Durham
Region. Chief Peck from Uxbridge advised he was very satisfied with the use of the
lights as was Chief Graham from Brock Township and Chief Miller from the Township
ofScugog. They also advised that when using the lights the firefighters were more
responsible for their driving habits, as they were readily identifiable.
The Clarington part -time District Chiefs have advised that the firefighters would be
expected to purchase the lights on their own and not impose any cost on the Municipality,
which was also a concern as the lights cost $145 per unit. With roughly 100 part-time
firefighters at any time, it would cost over $14,500.
In Brock Township the firefighters' association purchased the lights. When a firefighter
resigns or retires the light is returned to the association. This ensures some control. Staff
is giving thought to making the area District Chief responsible for the use and control of
the flashing lights. This issue will be resolved before use ofthe lights commences, by
those who choose to do so.
Staff recommends that permission be given to those part-time firefighters who wish to do
so, under the following criteria:
. The part-time firefighters' associations consider purchasing the lights to implement
some control over their use.
. The District Chief from each station has direct control over issuing, collecting and
use of the lights.
. The lights are placed in operation effective January 1,2000 with a follow up staff
report after 6 months, noting their effectiveness.
. Advertisements are placed in local newspapers regarding the use ofthese lights.
RECOMMENDATIONS
It is respectfully recommended that report FD-23-99 is received.
That the use of green flashing lights by Clarington part-time firefighters are approved
subject to the aforementioned criteria,
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That the use of these lights be advertised in local newspapers for public information; and
That the Durham Regional Police are sent a copy of this report.
Respectfully submitted,
Reviewed by,
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J t/ d~-e .:.--(~~
Franklin Wu,
Chief Administrative Officer.
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Michael G. Creighto ,AMCT, CMMII
Fire Chief.
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