JH Ketcham (Dover Plains, NY) Deputy Chief Buggy

[x129K 1,393]

I recently detailed our DC truck, which is currently operated by my father in law, for the Dutchess County Convention Parade and took a few pics so i thought I would share them. I will warn you know, it is a BIG departure from another Chief's buggy recently posted here..LOL.

It is a Ford Expedition, although I can not recall the year...perhaps 08 or 09?

As you can see, this is a "low" frills command truck, however, it is nicely equipped for what we demand from our buggies.

[x129K 1,393]

Up front is is equipped with a Whelen Slimlighter on the dash, headlight flasher, LED grille light, and clear strobes in the fog lights.

The rear has clear strobes in the tail lights, as well as another Slimlighter in the rear window.

[x129K 1,393]

Side warning is done via a pair of Whelen Slimlighters in the rear side windows.

Edited July 19, 2011 by x129K

[x129K 1,393]

The rear is equipped with a Command Post to the rear and an SCBA accessible via the driver seat rear fold down seat.

The Command Post has a slide out dry erase board, AED, Dry Chem, radio head, Survivor light, and traffic control accessories.

[x129K 1,393]

Up front is the radio, siren, and cup holder console.

It is a very simple, yet effective for us set up and performs the functions it is intended for well.

[SRS131EMTFF 471]

Nice command vehicle. Does this truck respond to alarms regularly or is primarily used in other functions that the DC is required to attend? The only reason I ask is usually Deputy Chief is a term used for Former Chiefs or chiefs with other roles like inspection/code enforcement while an assistant chief is simply a chief below the actual chief of the department. It seems that this vehicle is used in an assistant chiefs role according to my lingo (but maybe not yours).

Edited July 19, 2011 by SRS131EMTFF

[x129K 1,393]

Nice command vehicle. Does this truck respond to alarms regularly or is primarily used in other functions that the DC is required to attend? The only reason I ask is usually Deputy Chief is a term used for Former Chiefs or chiefs with other roles like inspection/code enforcement while an assistant chief is simply a chief below the actual chief of the department. It seems that this vehicle is used in an assistant chiefs role according to my lingo (but maybe not yours).

One of my pet peeves...LOL

In our department, the Deputy Chief is second in Command, Car 2 if you will. Past Chiefs are just that, Past Chiefs. Thank you for your service, we will certainly appreciate ANY help and all of your knowledge, but it is time to pass the torch. As such, this car is used for response to fires and other emergencies, or transportation by groups of members to training or semiars as needed.

Now, in an odd twist, our current Deputy Chief is a former Fire Chief, but re-elected after 2 years out of office, and filling the command spot of DC, not Past Chief.

I hold Past Chiefs on a special pedestal, no matter how long ago they served. It isnt easy to aquire 5 Crossed Bugles in the volunteer service (OK, maybe sometimes it is TOO easy, but not here). I beleive it does the Officers working up the ranks a dis-service by making Past Chiefs Deputies. I understand it is common practice in many locations and can respect that, just my opinion.

Our Command Structure is as follows;

Chief

Deputy Chief

Assistant Chiefs (one for each station 1 and 2)

Captains (one for each station)

Lieutenant (one for each station)

Our Past Chiefs can also accept the position of Safety Officer if they wish, as this is a rank appointed by the Chief

Edited July 19, 2011 by x129K