Wednesday January 30, Chief Tom DeMint presented the Poudre Fire Authority (PFA) to RCFC.  The fire chief discussed the history, the size of the jurisdiction, the budget, governance, number of calls, community risk reduction, the quest for continuous improvement and more.  

The PFA was formed in 1981 through an intergovernmental agreement between the City of Fort Collins and the Poudre Valley Fire Protection District (PVFPD).  This consolidation was implemented to provide a more prompt and effective response to fires and emergencies in the 235 square mile area served by the PFA.  

In 1982, PFA responded to a little less than 3000 calls for service.  In 2019, PFA will respond to 25,000 calls for service.  While PFA responds to all fire emergencies, fire is only a small part of the emergency needs.  Today medical emergencies make up approximately 70% of PFA’s emergency response, and PFA is responsible for maintaining the contract between the community and the regional ambulance provider, UCHealth.  According to DeMint the fire authority responds to medical emergencies because they are typically close, are first on the scene, and can provide emergency medical assistance while waiting for an ambulance.  Chief DeMint provided a very interesting and informative presentation, and RCFC thanks all first responders for their service to our community.