A-1

The need of being able to transport additional manpower to the emergency scene is fulfilled by A-1, a 1998 Ford Explorer. This vehicle, acquired in April 2001, replaced the Chevrolet station wagon that had been used by the department for several years. A major improvement of the new vehicle is its four-wheel drive capability for use in snow and other emergency conditions. The new unit also has improved communications capabilities, with direct two-way radio communication between all emergency response departments. This vehicle also carries additional equipment, such as lights and tools to supplement those carried on the Auxiliary Fire trucks. It can be used as a mobile command post by the Emergency Management Department as it carries copies of the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan, Hazardous Material Emergency Plan and other incident management resources. The Explorer is used by the Emergency Management Director to respond to emergency incidents.