Paul M. Malchow
Posted: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 4:45 pm

Le Sueur Fire Chief Tom Obele shows how donations have enabled the department to upgrade equipment and make fire fighting safer and more efficient.

We are all familiar with the heroic image of firefighters risking their lives to save people and property. But Le Sueur Fire Department Chief Tom Obele says that scenario is backward. Time and time again the general public has rescued the fire department.

Taxpayers in the department’s contracted area supply the bulk of the budget capital. Obele said when setting a budget for the year the department anticipates a certain amount of revenue from calls answered. But the budget covers essentials only. The department deals with a myriad of federal and state regulations with which it must comply. Because the department has met these mandates it was able to secure FEMA money to purchase a new compressor and air packs for the fire fighters. It also received a grant from the Department of Natural Resources to purchase wild land fire equipment.

Anyone who drives a vehicle knows about unexpected repairs and the fire department is no exception. Last week at the fire hall Obele was visiting with two gentlemen who were looking at one of the fire trucks. It was one of the department’s older models which is in need of a new chassis.

When it comes to updating or improving equipment, the Le Sueur Fire Department relies on the generosity of donors. “We’re really thankful for everyone’s help,” Obele said, “from the people who buy dance tickets to the businesses and organizations who give us grants.”

As an example, Obele showed the department’s thermo imaging camera. Once considered a luxury, fire departments everywhere have found the camera to be indispensable – and also very expensive. Le Sueur is fortunate enough to have its state-of-the art camera courtesy of donations from United Way, Treasures in Town and Center Point Energy.

Another big improvement made possible through donations is shelving installed in two of the fire trucks. Standard storage bins for the trucks are large and cavernous and Obele said equipment would often become jumbled together while the trucks were enroute to a call. Now, thanks to donations from Ag Star and the Pederson Foundation, the storage bins have been fitted with shelving – creating separate areas for various tools. Obele said the shelving not only saves time while fighting fires, it also saves wear and tear on the equipment.

Speaking of equipment, money raised at the annual firemen’s dance has allowed the department to purchase a new chain saw, a bullet saw which is used to cut through roofs, chains and towing equipment, and tires for the department’s grass rig. Two trucks have new GPS units thanks to a donation from Treasures in Town.

Obele said the department maintains a “wish list” of items it would like to acquire if funds become available. Besides the new truck chassis which has jumped up the list, the department’s extraction tools are showing their age. Obele said new tools will cost about $20,000.

“The guys learn new techniques using new equipment at training sessions,” Obele said. “New training equipment is very expensive. I just want to get the word out how much we appreciate everyone’s support.”