With a new fire chief on board, changes have come in the way the Elkin Fire Department’s members are responding to calls for service. This change and two other fire-related topics were discussed with the Elkin Board of Commissioners Thursday night during a town project update meeting, while a fourth topic will be discussed at a later time.
“We are working on change with the fire department and how it functions,” said Chief Mike Morton prior to Thursday night’s meeting. “First of all, the way we respond is a little different than what we’ve done in the past.
“No matter what kind of emergency the people on duty at the station, no matter if they are paid or volunteer, we go immediately. There is no delay — whether it’s a medical emergency, wreck, fire or fire alarm,” said Morton. “We have someone on paid duty 24 hours a day seven days a week.”
This remains the same as it was prior to Morton being hired by the town.
“Beyond that it’s changed a little. With a medical emergency whether it’s a cut finger or a heart attack, the people on duty go with the trucks and the volunteers not on duty can respond directly to the scene. If there is a medical emergency, they go straight to you so they can render essential aid with assistance by the rescue squad and EMS folks,” Morton said.
Elkin firefighters who have medical certification do not carry medical supply bags with them in personal vehicles. Those come on the trucks when the on-duty member responds.