By Taylor Heeden
The Daily Democrat
WOODLAND, Calif. — The Woodland Fire Department is grappling with significant challenges related to aging fire apparatus and ongoing supply chain disruptions.
Due to the pandemic’s aftereffects, fire apparatus manufacturers are experiencing substantial delays, leaving fire departments nationwide, including Woodland’s, with aging front-line and reserve apparatus remaining in service far beyond their expected lifespans.
“This is a significant challenge for all fire departments, but it’s especially pronounced for us here in Woodland,” said Fire Chief Eric Zane. “Our ability to maintain and operate reliable apparatus is essential for ensuring public safety.”
Woodland Fire Department usually sources from Westates Fire Apparatus, a local manufacturer. However, Westates ceased operations several years ago, complicating the process of sourcing replacement parts for the department’s reserve apparatus, some of which are over 20 years old.
This has resulted in increased out-of-service times and the need for frequent repairs, creating a severe logistical problem for the department, according to a release from the city of Woodland.
In recent months, the Fire Department has been forced to borrow fire engines from neighboring jurisdictions to maintain adequate coverage within the city.
Notably, the department has recently taken possession of a reserve engine from the city of Davis. While this engine is similarly aged, its manufacturer remains operational, making parts more readily available and reducing out-of-service issues.
“We are grateful for the support and partnership with neighboring fire departments like the city of Davis, especially as they have recently upgraded their fleet with two new engines and a ladder truck,” Zane said. “This collaborative effort helps us bridge the gap during these challenging times.”
The current predicament prompted a review of the department’s apparatus replacement policy, which has called for a 10-year service life for front-line apparatus and a 10-year reserve period, totaling a 20-year lifespan.
Zane noted this policy, while effective in the past, is now under strain due to increasing call volume and operational demands.
“Our call volume has doubled over the past decade, meaning our apparatus is experiencing twice the wear and tear,” Zane explained. “Responding to calls with larger, older fire engines, especially when our crews are constantly on the move, poses a risk. A smaller unit would require frequent returns to the station to retrieve the appropriate apparatus in critical situations, potentially delaying response times.”
To address these challenges, the department will pilot a new strategy by placing a two-person squad into service to handle lower acuity calls within Woodland.
This initiative aims to reduce the wear and tear on the primary fire engines and ladder trucks while evaluating the potential for extending their service life.
“Ultimately, addressing these issues will require additional funding,” Zane concluded. “Reducing the life cycle of our apparatus and staffing a smaller unit full-time will necessitate budget increases. As we continue to respond to a growing number of calls—9,000 in 2023 alone—securing the necessary resources will be crucial for maintaining our operational effectiveness and public safety.”
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