Police, fire chiefs answer public's questions in virtual National Night Out

Oct. 8--National Night Out was held virtually this year, for the first time ever, because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Normally, National Night Out allows people to mingle with police officers, firefighters, City Council members and others while enjoying food in their neighborhoods. The celebration is typically held in August, but this year the pandemic also forced its move to October.

Because it was held on Zoom, the format was different this year. First, City Council members spoke in pre-recorded videos, giving short messages saying how they hope the community can gather together in-person soon.

People submitted questions in advance for Burlington Police Chief Jeffrey Smythe and Fire Chief Jay Mebane. Two community members also spoke about why they like National Night Out and told about some of their favorite memories.

The following answers are summarized and paraphrased:

What role can we play in helping young people who have made mistakes, and gotten into trouble, with correcting records and getting back on the right track?

Smythe: People can become mentors for young people. They can also supervise community service. Teens that are court-ordered to pay restitution can earn money through a community service program. People can also help younger children learn to read and improve their reading level.

Is there any equipment that would make your jobs safer and more productive?

Asst. Fire Chief Travis Handy: The fire department created a strategic plan, which includes looking at current equipment and making sure it's up-to-date and effective. One of the main things they're looking at is moving from gas powered equipment to more battery-operated equipment, with new battery-operated technology that provides us with gear and equipment that is lighter and more functional.

Is there a plan to have, or do we have, body cameras for all of our officers?

Smythe: The Burlington Police Department has had body cameras for staff members ranked lieutenant and below since 2016. These are the officers who usually work in the field, but the department is considering buying cameras for captains and chiefs this year.

Due to increased violence in our society, is the Fire Department going to get bulletproof vests for their personnel?

Mebane: The fire department ordered bulletproof vests that should be arriving soon. The reason for ordering these vests is to add an additional layer of protection for firefighters across various incidents that we can encounter.

Do you offer CPR training to the public?

Asst. Fire Chief Greg Britt: Historically, we have not provided CPR training to the public. However, there are agencies in the community that provide this type of certification training, like the Red Cross and independent contractors. We do provide, free to the citizens, smoke alarm installs, car seat checks and installs, and help provide evacuation plans and fire drills.

How do you feel about having mental health experts on the force that can go to a call that requires their expertise?

Smythe: The Burlington Police Department employs a law enforcement crisis counselor. This person goes with officers on mental-health related calls. The department recently hired someone to work as a juvenile crisis counselor, focusing on mental health for children and diverting children from the justice system.

Do we have adequate rolling stock, which is solid and dependable vehicles?

Mebane: We have six engines, two reserves, two ladder trucks, a heavy rescue and two battalion cars.

Handy: Our fleet is strong right now. We're in good shape. The Fire Department is in the process of replacing its oldest engine. Firetrucks are custom-made, and the department hopes to have its new truck by the end of 2021 or beginning of 2022.

Can you speak a little bit about our responses from dispatch at the time that we need to be on scene of working incidents?

Handy: Firefighters must be dressed and on the truck within a minute of receiving a call. They try to be on the scene within four and a half minutes from that point, or five and a half minutes total.

Smythe: Our numbers are almost identical. We shoot for about the five-and-a-half minute mark. ... If you've got a stolen bike or something, that's not going to happen, but when life's in jeopardy, we're gonna get there in five minutes or less.

What do we want folks to know about having a safe Halloween this year?

Mebane: I would ask if you have COVID-19, to please refrain from trick-or-treating in person. And I would also ask that everyone be safe, hold hands and watch your little ones and big ones as they cross the road, and just be mindful of where you are and what you have going on.

Smythe: Really the best option probably for parents is to not go trick-or-treating. It's a high-risk activity. ... Go for a nice healthy walk. Don't knock on any doors. Don't pick up the candy. Don't expose yourself to some other folks that might have the virus, and have a safe night."

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