January 18
• Between 01/01/2023 and 01/31/2023, the Bethel Fire Department responded to 103 EMS and 22 Fire incidents.
• On 01/05/2023 at 6:35 a.m. Firefighters responded to Ridgecrest Drive for the report of a structure fire. Upon arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke and flames emitting from a residence. The fire was extinguished, and the contents were overhauled. The fire cause was classified as accidental.
• On 01/08/2023 at 11:07 p.m. medics responded to Akakeek Street for the report of a person experiencing a diabetic emergency. The patient was assessed, treated, and transported to the hospital.
• On 01/15/2023 at 2:15 a.m. medics responded to Ptarmigan Road for the report of a person who was stabbed. The patient was assessed, treated, and transported to the hospital.
• On 01/13/2023 at 5:44 p.m. Firefighters responded to East Avenue for the report of a steambath fire. Upon arrival, firefighters observed smoke and flames emitting from the structure. The fire was extinguished, and the contents were overhauled. The fire cause was classified as accidental.
• On 01/17/2023 at 4:33 p.m. medics, Bethel Police, and Alaska State Troopers responded to the Kuskokwim River, near the Gweek River, for the report of a person was injured in an ATV rollover. The patient was assessed, treated, and transported to the hospital.
• On 01/18/2023 at 2:30 p.m. Firefighters responded to Ridgecrest Drive for the report of a snowmobile on fire. Upon arrival, firefighters observed the vehicle fully engulfed in flames. The fire was extinguished, and the contents were overhauled. The fire cause was due to a mechanical failure in the engine compartment when the vehicle was operating.
• New staff and volunteers are receiving continuous Driver/Operator training on the handling characteristics, operation of specialty equipment, care, maintenance, and safety of the department’s ambulances and fire apparatus.
• Staff have completed several online training modules covering various topics of firefighting, emergency medical, fire inspection, and fire prevention.
• Staff have conducted several drills on firefighting and EMS knowledge and skills during each shift.
• Staff have instructed AHA Basic Life Support Provider courses for the new volunteer EMT recruits and for members of the public.
• The EMT-1 course started on November 12. Recruits have received instruction in several EMS topics. The course will conclude on February 10. There are currently five recruits. All are expected to pass their examinations and receive their State of Alaska EMT-1 certifications.