FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2008
For More Information, Contact:
System Planning Corporation
James M. Kudla
703/351-8238
Cell: 571-217-3633
jkudla@sysplan.com
Tips on Providing Adequate Fire & EMS Services in Light of Budget Challenges
Arlington, Va. - System Planning Corporation's (SPC) TriData division today announced that it can offer fiscally-challenged communities planning services to help maintain appropriate levels of fire and emergency services in difficult economic times – without compromising agency effectiveness.
With budget pressures mounting as property values fall, many communities will face difficult decisions about emergency services. Reducing those services should be a last resort, but if required, should be done in a way that minimizes adverse impacts on the citizens being served.
TriData's past performance record demonstrates its commitment to helping communities successfully pare budgets while maintaining an effective fire and EMS response force. Using an Integrated Risk Management approach, TriData consultants can advise client organizations on how to save money, reduce unnecessary demand for services, avoid cuts that could harm long-term organizational strength, and make deployment adjustments that minimize service reductions.
Through international research conducted in partnership with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), TriData has found that one element to consider – and one that often isn't – is a robust fire prevention and awareness program to help curtail, if not reduce, rising demand for emergency services. Getting the public to be more safety conscious and aware of when to avoid unnecessary calls can help balance demand and service levels.
TriData has also found that optimizing placement of stations and crews, and considering part-time units to deal with peak demand periods are smart ways to control costs.
TriData has recommended and implemented efficiency programs that have won raves from clients in localities throughout the United States.
For more information about TriData's unique Integrated Risk Management approach to fire and emergency services consulting, call 703-351-8300, or visit www.sysplan.com/tridata.
-SPC-
