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This month the focus should be to get out into the fire district and review streets, target occupancies and water resources.  Despite the slow down in the housing industry there are some new subdivisions in the town.  Ride the streets see where and how structures are being constructed.  This is especially true around Saratoga Lake where several new structures are being constructed.  Note their distance from the main highway and think about access to the structures if there should be a fire.  Also note the location of additional hydrants around in the area of the lake.  When reviewing a new subdivision or additions to current subdivisions note the location of hydrants and how structures are situated on the property.  Is the lot slopping where the front of the structure is two stories and the back is three?  Also cruise the older subdivisions to see if there are access changes due to trees or some other obstruction.  Members need to be constantly aware of what is new or changing in the district and how that might require a change in your response.

With the construction of the GlobalFoundary facility in Luther Forest note the new infrastructure being built in the town such as sewer lines, water lines and power lines.  This construction is being to change the landscape and note access areas and how the changes might change your response.

During the summer months it is not unusual to receive strong storms with heavy down pours and frequent lightening

·         Be prepared for power outages lasting several hours due to trees and limbs taking out power lines

·         In lightening storms, seek shelter in a substantial building and stay away from trees and metal fences

·         When driving watch for blocked roads and downed trees, seek alternate routes or stay put during blinding rain

·         Turn around, don’t drown, do not cross water covered roads, there is no way of knowing if the road is still there and cars can be swept away.

·         Be careful of downed power lines, assume they are live and if power lines come in contact with your vehicle, remain inside until help arrives.

·         When cleaning up storm debris, be extra careful with power equipment and removing broken limbs from trees, get extra help and THINK.