ITEM TITLE:
Purchase Approval: US&R Rescue Strut System from L.N. Curtis and Sons in the Amount of $173,207.30
SUBMITTED BY: Tracy Raynor, Fire Chief
FISCAL NOTES:
Expenditure Required: Total $ 173,207.30
Unencumbered Balance: $ 1,402,180.78
Funding Source: 350-0400-58000, Major Equipment Reserve
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the purchase of a US&R Rescue Strut System from L.N Curtis and Sons, including delivery to Valdez, in the amount of $173,207.30
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
This US&R Rescue Strut System is a 2025 Major Equipment Reserve budgeted item.
The purchase price of this strut system is based on the unit being purchased through LNC Sourcewell Contract #020124.
With Valdez's susceptibility to natural disasters and the potential delay in federal assistance, fire department personnel must be thoroughly trained to quickly set up and operate rescue strut systems. This capability empowers local responders to act decisively and save lives in the immediate aftermath of an incident, reducing reliance on delayed external resources.
Rescue strut systems are essential tools for stabilizing unstable vehicles, structures, or debris in emergency scenarios like auto extrications or building collapses. These systems provide a secure base to support heavy loads, prevent further collapse, and create safe conditions for rescuers and victims. Following NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards and FEMA’s Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) protocols, fire departments ensure these systems meet the highest safety standards and are effective under various emergency conditions.