January 28, 2008

Department strives for efficiencies

       In keeping true to its mission, the White River Township Fire Department is always looking for ways to be more efficient and effective in the course of providing emergency services to the public.  One of those ways is to cut costs whenever and wherever possible.  At a recent management retreat, officials looked extremely hard to find more ways to maintain current levels of service while being able to reduce costs and trim overhead.  Some of the results are immediate, such as performing more tasks in-house, rather than having them contracted out.  However, in order to do this, many of the areas require certified personnel to conduct the work, such as in vehicle maintenance.  The department already utilizes a part-time certified mechanic to conduct routine preventive maintenance but will now use him to conduct larger maintenance tasks as well, such as large-vehicle oil changes, brake repairs, and engine work.

         Another area of improving efficiency is with building maintenance.  The department relies heavily on current staff to perform many of the routine tasks, but also utilizes a few employees who specialize in certain trades to conduct many of the larger projects.  Much of this is evident when these larger projects, such as remodels or systems repair, are carried out.

         Conducting more training sessions in-house, rather than bringing in instructors, is yet another way the department is improving efficiency.  This means training more instructors in the short-term, but the long-term benefits will quickly outweigh any up-front costs.

         These are only a few examples of the many of the ideas already at work within the department.  Regardless of the particular project, the department remains committed to being as fiscally responsible as possible, all while maintaining and, in most cases, continuing to improve in the delivery of its services.  Some examples of this direction are shown below with some recent activities that include a brake repair, room remodel, and a specialized training course.
 

           
(Click on a thumbnail to enlarge photo)
   

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