SIDNEY —In March, personnel of the Sidney Department of Fire & Emergency Services responded to 256 EMS calls and 95 fire calls for a total of 351 calls compared to 341 calls in March 2016.

Personnel conducted in-house HazMat, EMS, MARCS (Multi-Agency Radio Communication System) radio, ladder training, as well as annual Protocol testing. Four lieutenants earned a certificate in a one week fire officer II course, and one firefighter went to a one week rope rescue (technical rescue team) training. Acquired structure multi-task training took place at a property on Michigan Avenue near Culver’s Restaurant, that was being demolished to make room for a new AT&T store.

One March 15, the Shelby County EMA (Emergency Management Association) conducted a simulation exercise to test the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at the Sidney Police Department. Members from the city, county, and many other agencies were involved. The exercise was a great learning experience and opportunity for all the partners that participated.

The fire prevention division performed 45 inspections: including 16 annual, 17 re-inspections, one consultation and handled three complaints. The department handed out 27 carbon monoxide detectors and four smoke detectors. The FPO (fire prevention officer) also visited, with approximately 100 people at the annual pioneer event, emphasizing the message to sleep with your bedroom door closed. Later in the month, three firefighters presented career opportunities to 270 Sidney High School freshman.