Emergency session requested for bill that would address Guam Fire Department shortage

“No formal talks, there was a conversation in passing, we were just talking about the usual challenges that we face but nothing that we haven't been able to overcome,” said acting Fire Chief Daren Burrier.

Burrier spoke on Bill 362, which was introduced recently by Sens. Frank Blas, Jr., Joanne Brown, and Jesse Lujan. The bill would give GFD Special Crisis Procurement Authority to acquire essential items such as parts, medical supplies, equipment, and services.

According to the bill it would be a “critical step in ensuring that ambulances remain equipped and operational.”

“I think the intention of the bill is good. They have the interest of the public in mind to be able to provide the best care to them...we all do. The fire department, the Governor, the Lt. Governor. We've all expressed that,” added Burrier. “We do appreciate any help we can get from Sen. Blas or any of the senators in achieving our objectives in the best care and life safety to the People of Guam.”

Burrier said currently GFD has four ambulances operational out of a standard eight set by the National Fire Protection Association. 

GFD averages about 20,000 calls a year. Some ambulances will average 12 runs a shift. They do run hard and as expected, the units will unfortunately break down.

The ambulances that are out of service are awaiting parts and a requisition of new ambulances has been placed.

“Its not something like the bid goes out and gets filled instantaneously. It takes months for those to be built. These are special ordered. They don't make them and put them out on the lot, like regular cars. We give them specifications and they build it to our specifications and take up six months or longer to be built depending on the market,” he said. 

Although the bill notes the current situation as a crisis, Burrier said there is an ongoing contingency plan and mou with their military partners.

“If our ambulances are out at calls, and responding and transporting, we have a critical call that comes in and needs immediate response, we have a tier system on our side. All of our firefighters are trained in multiple disciplines, EMT certified and our partners would give us mutual aid. We also have our paramedic units who can provide care at the scene until transport,” he added. 

And if there is anything Burrier would like to say to the island community, it's this.

“I’ve been in the Guam Fire Department for 36 years, I've been on Guam for 40 years and a firefighter for 40 years. The professionalism of the men and women of the Guam Fire Department, has always been at a level that's been very high and I've never experienced a time where they have not strove to give the very best to the People of Guam,” he said. 

In the meantime, an emergency session has been requested so that lawmakers can take action on the bill.