Governor Dunleavy Declares Disaster Emergency for South Tongass: Borough officials received notification this afternoon that Governor Dunleavy has declared a State of Emergency for the South Tongass Fire Station and Apparatus. This declaration will help the Borough apply for and obtain essential funding for rebuilding of the fire station and replacement of fire and EMS vehicles, equipment, and supplies.
Equipment Update: The insurance adjuster was on scene April 12 and 13 and conducted a full investigation of the vehicles. Staff is awaiting a final report of loss and valuation.
Early this morning the fire engine on loan from the State Fire Service Training Center arrived via Alaska Marine Highway System ferry from Juneau. The engine will serve the Department until a new replacement apparatus is obtained. The 2024 Pumper Fire Engine that is under procurement will be retrofitted with hoses, and is now expected to arrive in Ketchikan by the end of June.
The ambulance on loan from the City and Borough of Wrangell will be in service April 17. Chief Rydeen is also working to purchase a used medic unit (ambulance) until a new unit can be procured. The lead time on a new unit is approximately one year.
Status of Fire Station Building: The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. Officials believe the fire started in the 20-year-old fire engine housed at the north end of the vehicle bay, although the cause remains undetermined. The State Fire Marshal was on scene and conducted a full investigation on April 10 and 11 and will continue to determine the cause. Staff is awaiting a final report. A structural engineer from the Borough’s insurance company will be on scene April 19th to determine the future status of the building.
Chief Rydeen and Public Works Director Barry are working to procure a Quonset-hut structure to locate on the upper level of the South Tongass Fire Station lot. The hut will be used to house apparatus and equipment until the station can be rebuilt. A plan has been developed to pave the upper lot prior to placement of the structure.
Clean-Up, Recovery, and Volunteer Opportunities: Clean up and recovery is underway with South Tongass staff and membership volunteers. Additional opportunities for volunteers will be available once the insurance adjuster report is finalized and when clean-up materials are on site. A dumpster has been ordered through the City of Ketchikan, and a sheltered worksite for volunteers will be obtained. To sign up to help with the clean-up and recovery efforts, please email STVolunteer@kgbak.us.
Additional information regarding the April 9th fire is available at: https://www.kgbak.us/346/South-Tongass-Volunteer-Fire-Department
