The City of Keene is taking significant steps to enhance its fire and emergency services in response to rapid community growth. During a recent budget workshop, the fire department outlined plans to increase staffing and improve resources to meet rising demand for services.

Fire Chief emphasized that the department's primary mission is to save lives and property, but with the city's expanding population, the need for additional services has become critical. The department currently operates with four firefighter-paramedics daily, which falls short of the National Fire Protection Association's recommended staffing level of six. To address this, the city is considering adding personnel to ensure adequate coverage and response times.

The fire department has seen a substantial increase in call volume, with projections indicating a rise from 1,654 calls this year to approximately 2,558 calls annually as the population grows. This increase translates to a demand for more resources and personnel to maintain effective emergency response.

In addition to staffing, the department is focusing on community outreach, particularly targeting fire safety education for the elderly and school children. This includes initiatives like Fire Prevention Week, which requires funding for materials and supplies.

The budget also includes provisions for vehicle maintenance and the acquisition of a new ambulance, estimated to cost around $450,000. This is necessary as the current fleet ages and requires more upkeep. Furthermore, new state mandates will require cancer screenings for firefighters, adding to the operational costs.

Overall, the proposed budget reflects a proactive approach to ensure that the fire department can effectively serve the growing community while maintaining high standards of safety and service. The city council's support in these initiatives will be crucial as Keene continues to expand.