This summer four Chevy Tahoes will be fitted with the latest equipment and accessories needed for use by Carroll County’s new Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services.
Commissioners unanimously approved the installation of new lighting, sirens, graphics, safety equipment, and cabinetry for the vehicles, for a total of $142,382.20. This amount includes all parts, labor, installation, and delivery.
“(That is) everything that’s needed to convert this vehicle for use by fire and EMS personnel,” said Reid Oliver, with the county’s Department of Fleet Management and Warehouse.
The vehicles will be used by shift commanders overseeing the fire companies. EMS personnel will also use the trucks.
Oliver said there has been “significant upgrades” in the equipment that will go into the trucks.
“All the lighting is LED now, the antennas can provide Wifi, and allow radios to be in front of the vehicle, as well as the rear of the vehicle,” Oliver said. “There’s been significant updates. All the equipment will be new.”
The funds for the work are included in the adopted fiscal 2023 budget.
The work will be done by Fesco Emergency Sales, a dealership that specializes in the fire apparatus and EMS vehicles.
The push to create a combination paid and volunteer county fire service began in Carroll County more than a decade ago. In 2018, the Maryland General Assembly passed legislation allowing the county to establish the new department and in October 2020, commissioners unanimously voted to pass an ordinance that created it.
Staffing and equipment is needed for 13 of the county’s 14 volunteer fire companies. The Harney Volunteer Fire Company in Taneytown will receive no new staffing, as it has no ambulances and a low call volume.
For months, the county has been hiring and training personnel. They have also been purchasing equipment and vehicles that will be needed.
On Thursday, June 1, 16 new lieutenants will be inducted into the department at 7 p.m. at the Carroll Community College Theater, 1601 Washington Road in Westminster.
