The Houston Fire Department recommends that City Council adopt an ordinance appropriating $985,905.93 from the FY2016 Equipment Acquisition Consolidated Fund for purchase of capital equipment to be used by the Houston Fire Department.
SPECIFIC EXPLANATION:
The Fire Chief recommends that City Council adopt an Ordinance authorizing the appropriation of $985,905.93 from the FY2016 Equipment Acquisition Consolidated Fund for the purchase of capital equipment items for HFD as approved in the FY2016 Equipment Acquisition Plan. The Appropriation ordinance is required to provide funding for the purchase of capital equipment by utilizing current City contract agreements or to issue a purchase order for purchases under $50,000.00.
Hydraulic Stretchers: These innovative battery powered stretchers raise and lower patients using a touch button system which dramatically reduces strenuous lifting and also reduces the risk of back injury.
Stair Chairs: This new EZ Glide w/track Stair Chair glides patient loads up to 500 lbs. down stairs without carrying or lifting. Its one-inch track-to-ground clearance and front swivel wheels provide superior maneuverability over carpet and confined spaces such as stair landings.
Stretcher Power Load System: The Power-LOAD cot fastener system lifts and lowers the cot into and out of the ambulance, spinal loads and the risk to reduce paramedic cumulative trauma injuries.
Video Laryngoscopes / Pediatric blades for Video Laryngoscopes: To allow trainers an efficient and effective visual aid for critical care patients. This device provides a clear view for quick intubation. These blades are for the Video Laryngoscope device which will provide a clear view for quick intubation in pediatric patients.
Task Trainer: This equipment is needed by our HFD Doctors and EMS Medical Staff to perform Paramedic Credentialing evaluation.
Mustang Dry Suit: PPE used by Rescue personnel entering Flood waters to protect themselves from Bio-Hazardous contaminants, Hypothermia, Cuts/Lacerations from Surface/Sub-Surface objects.
Breathing Air Cylinders (45 Min): Replacement due to age and continued cost of repair.
Breathing Air Cylinders (60 Min): Replacement due to age and continued cost of repair.
Breathing Air Compressor Station: System used to keep up with increased training and operational demands of the Training Academy to fill bottles. This system will also be used as a backup for the Emergency Operations Cascade Services.
APX 7500 Radios: Needed to train Cadet Trainees on radio operations. Currently the Training Academy has 20 radios; which is not enough to allow each Cadet to become proficient in radio use and operations.
Laptops (Instructors): Laptops are replacements at the training Academy to allow instructors to be more active with Cadets while teaching them the basics.
5 Inch Hose: The Fire Department recently changed the size of water supply hose needed for firefighting from 4 inches to 5 inches in diameter. The Training Academy must be stocked to train Cadets properly.
HD Video Camera/Camera with case: Needed for multiple pre-scheduled events, ceremonies and presentations.
Adobe Creative Suites Master Collection: Upgrade system for Public Affairs employees to work correctly with other communications for Fire. This was left out of the PC refresh.
Computer Work Station: Workstation for Public Affairs employees to work for public relation events and communicate to fire stations.
Arson Lab Equipment: Upgrade and replace arson equipment needed to complete investigations.
Web Focus: System used by Fire fighters and some admin staff.
Tough pads: Inspectors need this for the field to record data/ information.