Moorhead’s fire department is in need of equipment.
The city needs the jaws of life; air compressors; turnout gear (personal protective equipment used by firefighters), fire hydrant maintenance, and updated hydrants.
Fire Chief Gary Perryman explained the purpose of the equipment.
“The jaws of life (hydraulic rescue tools) are used in the extrication of victims involved in vehicle accidents (and other rescues in small spaces),” Perryman said.
Perryman continued, stating that the air compressor hooks to each fire truck to keep the air pressure up for the braking system to function properly.
“The compressor saves time when starting up the fire trucks to report to a fire scene,” he said.
“When we start up the fire truck with no compressor, we have to wait 3 to 5 minutes before we can leave the fire station,” said Perryman.
Perryman added, “It’s the city’s responsibility to maintain all fire hydrants.”
“These are the top 10 practices for maintaining fire hydrants: (1) maintained and inspected regularly; (2) exercise the fire hydrant; (3) lubricate regularly; (4) flush the hydrant; (5) check for standing water; (6) inspect traffic features; (7) ensure proper hydrant height; (8) inspect leaks; (9) check hydrant outlet nozzle caps; and (10) keep maintenance records.” (via Google- Mueller Water Products article 12-04-2020)
“A fire hydrant is a point where firefighters can get access to and connect into a water supply. It maybe under or a pillar type above ground. A hydrant is an important component of active fire fighting. Therefore, it is important that fire hydrants are not obstructed and are kept in good working order. They are used in supplying or refilling the tank in a fire fighting appliance. In the event of fire it is vital that firefighters have access to water supplies quickly. (via Google - Hydrants direct news article 09-10-2020)
According to Perryman, Moorhead’s fire department has a mutual aid agreement with Leflore County, Inverness, Sunflower and Indianola.
These fire departments supply manpower and water, and assist with extinguishing fires.
“When a fire call comes in, I immediately reach out to surrounding areas: Sunflower County District 4 to bring the truck with water and manpower. I also reach out to Inverness who will bring 2 tanker trucks with water and manpower,” explained Perryman.
Moorhead needs more volunteers.
However, volunteers must be at least 18 years old, and qualified applicants are required to complete training and assessments.
If anyone is interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter, please contact Gary Perryman, fire chief in Moorhead, Division Chief with Sunflower County Emergency Management System, and trainer.
