The Purchase Fire Department responded to 831 calls of service in 2023, the most in department history surpassing last year’s record number of alarms. The proud members of the Purchase Fire Department will continue to provide the highest standard of service in 2024 to our residents, businesses, and visitors of the district.

Below are some highlights from 2023:

• Community Outreach- In addition to responding to fires and emergencies our firefighters participated in many community events throughout the year. Our members continue to give back to the community and send out fire safety messages.

• Recruitment- Recruiting efforts were considerably enhanced and increased with our recruitment process.

• Training- Training to maintain operational readiness is a high priority for the Purchase Fire Department. Our members logged hundreds of training hours that help maintain and develop skillsets for our personnel. Our training program consists of various topics to meet standards and recognized laws. To maintain proficiency, an emphasis was placed on continuing “daily drills” in 2023.

• EMS- Implemented a Fire Department response to cardiac arrests in the Purchase Fire District. CPR is a life-saving skill that our firefighters are trained to perform. Early CPR and early defibrillation significantly increases the chance of survival for cardiac arrest victims.

• Apparatus Replacement- Our apparatus committee was hard at work in 2023. We were able to approve the replacement of our 2003 Seagrave, Engine 240. The committee is also in the process of designing the replacement of our 2004 Seagrave, Rescue 30. Stay tuned for updates on this project during the month.

• Addition of 2nd Asst. Chief- Due to increasing call volumes, we added a 3rd Chief to our Command Staff. This new position help absorb the increased workload and day to day administration duties.

• SOG’s- We have updated and produced new Standard Operating Guidelines for our operations. These are essential documents used throughout the Fire Service that provide guidance when dealing with emergencies and help ensure department activities are consistent, effective, and safe.

• Automatic Aid Agreements- Automatic aid agreements were expanded; these agreements streamline emergency response and resource sharing.

• Equipment- Our rescue equipment cache was increased to better serve our residents and those who travel throughout our district.

• Firefighter Accountability- We adopted a new accountability system to allow for greater ability to track and account for our personnel at an incident.

We would be remiss not to acknowledge the Purchase community and all they do to support us. We recognize that trust requires an on-going investment.

On behalf of the membership of the Purchase Fire Department we would like to wish everyone a Happy & Healthy 2024!