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Public Safety Committee Minutes:  12 Sep 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 12 Sep 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Patrick Dempsey, and Linda Hedgepeth with advisor John Cataldo.   

We discussed the selection of the next emergency response unit for recognition and decided on the Ebony Volunteer Fire Department in Brunswick County.  John took the action to inquire with the Ebony VFD to determine if they would wish the presentation to be at their station or at the October LGA meeting.  We will also inform the appropriate press representatives. 

We discussed the recent events associated with both the NC and Virginia Safe Boating Alliances.  Pete Deschenes, Jack Saunders and Rep Michael Wray were interviewed by WRAL TV regarding the intent and need for the proposed Boater Education Legislation which hopefully will go before the 2009 Session of the NC General Assembly.

We then discussed how we might increase interest in revitalizing Neighborhood Watch Programs and how we might start by including some of the tips we have previously identified in the next LGA Bulletin.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 10 Oct, 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  08 August 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 8 Aug 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Patrick Dempsey, Pete Deschenes and George Kimble with advisor John Cataldo. 

The agenda was to review ideas for Volunteer Fire and Rescue Unit Recognition, review actions ongoing related to NC Safe Boating Legislation and the Virginia Safe Boating Alliance, and progress on distribution of the 911 emergency cards and ideas for future activity and any other business.

The Chair reported that the distribution of the 911 emergency cards is complete with the exception of distribution as needed to VFDs and Rescue Squads.  Since almost 3500 have been distributed, it is hoped that the cards will be of benefit to the community. 

We discussed how to go about selecting the fire and rescue units for recognition and decided to start in Mecklenburg and proceed around the lake, unless there is an instance of outstanding or unusual action by one of the units which would result in immediate recognition.  Patrick took the action to inquire with the Lake Gaston VFD to determine if they would wish the presentation to be at their station or at the next LGA meeting.  We will also inform the appropriate press representatives. 

We discussed the recent events associated with both the NC and Virginia Safe Boating Alliances.  In Virginia, there is still no clear path to address legislation to have the Federal regulation for mandatory wear of life preservers by children under 13 when a vessel is underway (not docked or anchored) enforced by the Virginia Conservation Police. 

In NC, there was a teleconference to communicate the passage of the mandatory Safe Boating Education Study bill.  We also discussed how to move to the next steps leading to the 2009 legislative session.  It was reported that the Congress passed and the President signed the bill to exempt recreational vessels from the requirements of the Clean Water Act, thus offsetting a Federal District court decision favoring a California Environmental group who sued the EPA.

The action by the Northampton County E911 Communications activity to have a relay station leased to improve communication with the Roanoke Wildwood and Gaston units was addressed.  

We discussed the potential for new challenges to take on including the potential for bringing the revitalization of neighborhood watches back to the attention of full time and part time residents, and the need to address emergency planning before the fact such as that needed to prepare for hurricanes and other natural disasters.  The Executive Cmte asked us to look at the issue of fire hydrants or any other actions to reduce fire insurance costs. 

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 12 Sep 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  11 July 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 11 July 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes and George Kimble with advisor Bill Lindenmuth. 

The agenda was to review ideas for First Responder Recognition, review actions ongoing related to NC Safe Boating Legislation and the Virginia Safe Boating Alliance, progress on distribution of the 911 emergency cards and ideas for future activity and any other business.

One suggestion from a local VFD President was to present plaques at annual events that they already have to recognize the contributions that the volunteers all make.  We have decided to modify the suggestion and are going to recommend to the full LGA Board of Directors that we recognize a first responder unit each month to show our appreciation as a continuing activity.  This way we can ensure that we address the efforts of all the counties and highlight the often unsung works of the hundreds of volunteers involved with the first responder squads and departments. 

The chair reported that cards had been provided to the Lake Gaston Ladies Club, several local churches, the Men United for Action in Henrico, and the Lake Gaston Water Safety council.  We are trying to reach the remaining organizations and churches around the lake.

Pete Deschenes reviewed this month’s progress on proposed study legislation to promote Safe Boating Education Legislation.  Most recently was as teleconference organized by Rep Wray on 10 July participated in by most of the parties which have shown an interest in the NC Safe Boating Alliance.  Rep Wray reviewed the current status of the study bill and ensured that everyone was aware of the contacts for the intern assigned to research possible legislation.  Pete also discussed the actions that the Virginia Safe Boating Alliance is now addressing to include wear of life preservers on vessels underway by persons under 13 years old and federal activities to avoid enforcement of EPA rules on recreational vessels due to a lawsuit filed successfully by a California group to require recreational vessels to have filtration systems on water circulated around the motor for cooling and run off from the deck of a vessel from spray or rainwater.  

The Executive Cmte asked us to look at the issue of fire hydrants or any other actions to reduce fire insurance costs.  The chair will contact the Warren County Dept of Public Works for ideas since Northampton is not an issue.  Chair will research if there is a problem in the other three counties. 

We are still looking for projects to take on next.  One suggestion is the potential for a lake area 45 mile an hour speed limit.  Any others would be appreciated.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 8 Aug 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes - June 13, 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 13 June 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes, Patrick Dempsey and George Kimble with advisor John Cataldo.  

The agenda was to review progress on distribution of the 911 emergency cards, address what we might plan for an appreciation gesture to first responders, and to address activity related to NC Safe Boating Legislation and any other business.

The chair reported that cards had been provided to the Lake Gaston Ladies Club, several local churches, the Men United for Action in Henrico, and the Lake Gaston Water Safety council.  It was suggested that a short script should be printed to accompany the cards to explain the intent for them and recommended that the cards be promoted through local newspapers.  It was also recommended that we encourage folks to take one for themselves and several more for their neighbors.  Distribution to the AARP, the Littleton Lions Club, Lake Gaston Lions Club, the Computer Club and the VFDs is planned, but is behind plan.  Home Owner’s organizations are encouraged to call for copies, as well as, realtors for both rentals and new purchasers.

Pete Deschenes reviewed this month’s progress on proposed study legislation to promote Safe Boating Education Legislation.  The next event anticipated is a conference call in July. 

We committed again to find out what local VFDs and VRSs would think appropriate for recognition from the citizens in the area.  One suggestion from a local VFD President was to present plaques at annual events they already have to recognize the contributions they all make.  We will consider trying to recognize a first responder unit each month to show our appreciation as a continuing activity.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 11 Jul 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes: 9 May 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 9 May 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes, Patrick Dempsey and John Slaton. 

The agenda was to review the distribution plans for the 911 emergency cards, address what we might plan for an appreciation gesture to first responders, and to address activity related to NC Safe Boating Legislation and any other business.

The chair reported that only 4,000 cards were actually printed and the magnetic stripping has been obtained.  We again reviewed organizations to help with the distribution to include the Lions clubs of Lake Gaston and Littleton, the LGA, the LG Water Safety Council, the Lake Gaston Ladies Club, all the VFD and Rescue Auxiliaries, AARP, the Computer Club, All area Churches, Homeowner and Property Owner Associations, and other interested organizations

Pete Deschenes reviewed the results of the North Carolina Safe Boating Alliance kickoff meeting and identified the participants.  Rep Michael Wray hosted the meeting on 16 April at the Legislative Executive Building in Raleigh.

We identified September as the likely time to have some type of appreciation gathering for lake area first responders, and decided to contact several of the local units to get their advice as to what might be the most effective in communicating with and including a large number of the first responders. 

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 13 Jun 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  11 Apr 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 11 Apr 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes, Patrick Dempsey and John Slaton, and adviser LGA President, John Cataldo. 

The agenda was to review the draft 911 emergency cards, discuss magnet options, review the distribution approach for the 911 info and refrigerator cards, to address activity to move forward with NC Safe Boating Legislation and any other business.

The draft info card and completion guidelines were reviewed and accepted.  We decided to have 6,000 copies printed.  We will also buy rolls of magnetic stripping to cut up for individual use.  The distribution methodology will be as discussed previously using all available surrounding lake activities, associations, churches and interested real estate firms.  These include the Lions clubs of Lake Gaston and Littleton, the LGA, the LG Water Safety Council, the Lake Gaston Ladies Club, all the VFD and Rescue Auxiliaries, AARP, the Computer Club, All area Churches, Homeowner and Property Owner Associations, and other interested organizations

Pete Deschenes reviewed the progress in having the kickoff meeting with interested organizations that intend to participate in a NC Safe Boating Alliance.  Rep Michael Wray and his office in Raleigh have established a kickoff meeting date of 16 April at the Legislative Executive Building in Raleigh and they are sending the invitations to the interested entities. 

Pete recommended that the LGA invite area first responders (VFDs and Rescue units) as the program for the annual meeting as an opportunity for the membership to meet the volunteers and express their appreciation first hand.  John took that under advisement. 

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 9 May 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  March 14, 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on March 14, 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes, George Kimble and John Slaton, and adviser LGA President, John Cataldo. 

The agenda was to complete plotting the fire and rescue districts and to address activity to move forward with NC Safe Boating Legislation.

All of the Fire Districts and Emergency Rescue Districts have now been defined and checked with county directors and in with emergency service personnel.  We will make final checks and have cards printed during April for all interested parties to fill in and post where they will be easily found in an emergency.  We will then work with local organizations and churches to distribute the information and cards

Pete Deschenes reviewed the progress in having the kickoff meeting with interested organizations that intend to participate in a NC Safe Boating Alliance.  Rep Michael Wray and his office in Raleigh are working to identify an appropriate date, time and location for a kickoff meeting of the interested organizations, the NC Wildlife Commission and some of the elected legislators.  The push is to have the initial meeting as soon as possible.

The Committee also discussed ideas for additional projects, involvement with the Emergency Management Department heads and subjects for the Spring LGA Bulletin. 

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 11 Apr 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  11 Jan 2008

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 11 Jan 2008 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Pete Deschenes and John Slaton, and adviser LGA President, John Cataldo. 

The agenda was to address follow up actions as a result of the last several meetings and to address activity to move forward with NC Safe Boating Legislation.

We have continued to work to identify all the fire districts that service properties around the Lake.  George Kimble (safety committee member) sought assistance from Butch Garnett (Chief of the Roanoke Wildwood VFD) to get a complete identification of the Fire Districts around the Lake in both Virginia and North Carolina.  We now have this information and will work to create a list of subdivisions in the Fire Districts and to prepare the handouts for distribution to all citizens around the Lake. 

Pete Deschenes reviewed the activity ongoing to have contacts both with the NC Wildlife Commission and the 17 organizations that have shown interest in participating in a NC Safe Boating Alliance.  Rep Michael Wray and his office in Raleigh are working to identify an appropriate date, time and location for a kickoff meeting of the interested organizations, the NC Wildlife Commission and some of the elected legislators.  Activity in late January and/or early February is still anticipated.

The Committee also discussed the budget for the next year that would be proposed and activity to support the various law enforcement departments in upcoming budget activities.

The Chairman is unable to attend the next regular Committee meeting and it was decided by members present to skip the February meeting.  Activities necessary to move the Emergency Call data forward will continue independently of any meeting and it is anticipated that the Committee will be ready to release the product of this activity in early April.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 14 Mar 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Meeting:  14 December 2007

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 14 Dec 2007 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members George Kimble, Pete Deschenes and John Slaton and adviser John Cataldo. 

The agenda was to address follow up actions as a result of the last meeting and to address activity to move forward with Safe Boating Legislation.

We have worked to create a master list of emergency services by identifying all the local Fire District and associated Emergency Medical Services.  The master list will be used in the distribution process to identify the specific locality and residence. The first action is to complete identifying the fire districts in each county bordering the lake and to identify the appropriate phone numbers.  George Kimble has had contact with Butch Garnett from the Roanoke Wildwood VFD to assist.

After the master list is completed we will be able to exploit the experience and memberships of the Lake Gaston Lions, the Lake Gaston Ladies Club, AARP, Real Estate Agents (for vacationers) and all area churches to maximize the efficient distribution of the information. 

Pete reviewed the progress and actions with Rep Wray and his office in Raleigh.  Activity in January is still anticipated.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 11 Jan 08 at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  09 Nov 2007

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 09 Nov 2007 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Lenny Turner, Pete Deschenes and John Slaton and advisers Pete Deschenes and John Cataldo. 

The agenda was to address follow up actions as a result of the last meeting and to address activity to move forward with Safe Boating Legislation.

At the previous meeting we had discussed how we might best communicate with the widest population surrounding the lake and provide the necessary information in the most convenient manner.  We determined to try to add information to the File for Life packets previously distributed by the Lions and the information channels of the local Church Community and large organizations.  At the November meeting we had guests representing the Roanoke Wildwood VFD, local churches and the Lake Gaston Lions and contact has been made with the Lake Gaston Ladies Club and local realtors.

We intend to create a master list of emergency services by collecting all the local Fire District numbers and associated Emergency Medical Services.  The master list can then be used in the distribution process to identify the specific locality and residence. The first action is to identify the fire districts in each county bordering the lake and to identify the appropriate phone numbers. 

After the master list is completed we will be able to exploit the experience and memberships of the Lake Gaston Lions, the Lake Gaston Ladies Club, AARP, Real Estate Agents (for vacationers) and all area churches to maximize the efficient distribution of the information. 

The other item was to address where the efforts for legislation for Boater Safety are going in NC.  Pete reported on the meeting with Rep Wray he set up to address the assistance we could expect in the coming legislative session.  Rep Wray has offered to sponsor a meeting of potentially interested supporters of such boater safety training legislation in the January time frame in Raleigh.  Pete has contacted numerous organizations and quite a few have committed to becoming part of an alliance to promote the legislation.  Rep Wray also volunteered to set up a meeting with appropriate commissioners from the NC Wildlife Resource Commission.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 14 Dec at 0830 at the EFG&G.

Public Safety Committee Minutes:  12 Oct 2007

The Safety Committee met at 0830 on 12 Oct 2007 at the Eaton’s Ferry Grocery and Grill.  Present were Jack Saunders, Chair, members Jim Smalfelt, George Kimble and John Slaton and advisers Pete Deschenes and John Cataldo.  

The agenda was to address follow up actions as a result of the last meeting and to address activity to move forward with Safe Boating Legislation.

There were some discussions of how we might create a method to have all citizens post in their homes accurate call numbers and location information for use in emergency.   Quickly it was suggested that we could build from the foundation established in the File for Life packets that were distributed in the community by many organizations.   Since these packets are posted on peoples refrigerators, we concluded that it might be useful to add a card to the packet with the emergency call information that people need. 

We also discussed what kind of info would be needed such as the non emergency numbers for each county, alternate service providers in certain communities and location and incident description info.   We can create a master list and then provide the local information to those who choose to post this data at home. 

We also discussed how to reach the entire community.  It was determined that we should exploit the experience of the Roanoke Wildwood VFD, the Lake Gaston Lions, the Lake Gaston Ladies Club, AARP, Real Estate Agents (for vacationers) and all area churches.  We will attempt to have representatives from those organizations present at the next meeting.

We determined that another follow up to the last meeting would be to try to learn more about communication equipment compatibility.  Contact will be made with Emergency Management coordinators. 

The last item was to address where the efforts for legislation for Boater Safety are going in NC.  Pete has arranged a meeting with Rep Wray to address this subject.

The next meeting of the LGA Public Safety Committee will be held on 9 Nov at 0830 at the EFG&G.