FIRE: Event just smoke, not flame

On July 20, 2012 an engine company from Kootenai County Fire & Rescue (KCFR) attended a retirement celebration for a member of Coeur d’Alene Fire Department, recognizing an outstanding 35-year career and one of the original paramedics in Kootenai County. He was also recognized last year for an act of heroism during a water rescue in Fernan Lake where the Coeur d’Alene firefighters rescued two children from a submerged vehicle.

Unfortunately, the perception of a fire engine showing up at a proposed event facility during a celebration was perceived as an inappropriate use of public resource. We apologize for any hard feelings or misperceptions that the attendance of our personnel may have caused, but feel that supporting our colleagues in times of great accomplishment is an important part of the fire service and in the spirit of regional collaboration; KCFR supports other events in the community while remaining available for emergency response on a regular basis.

Allegations were made that KCFR personnel were consuming alcohol, driving the fire engine under the influence, conspiring with the Sheriff’s Department, and at the event for several hours. An internal investigation was completed and it was found that the crew members did not consume alcohol, did not drive under the influence of alcohol, there was no telephone call or conspiring between the responding officer and the KCFR crew, and the engine company was at the gathering for about an hour, not several.

There was no ill intent or action taken by the crews during their attendance at the retirement gathering. When the crew in downtown Post Falls was dispatched to an emergency call, the engine company at the retirement celebration immediately returned to their station and there was no negative impact to emergency services during their participation.

KCFR employs professionals with integrity and character and exists solely to serve the public; our community, visitors and each other. We encourage anyone with questions or concerns to contact us and we welcome feedback on how we can improve our service to you.

WARREN A. MERRITT

Fire Chief

Kootenai County Fire & Rescue