LASERFICHE
With the sudden increase in personnel, we have identified the need for better administrative and records retention processes. The Fire Department relies heavily on documentation of incidents and safety measures. To assist with that, we implemented Laserfiche as a document management system for our Annual, Probationary, and Training Evaluations processes. We will continue our implementation with daily equipment checks and routinely used personnel forms. This saves hours of administrative work and increases record retention reliability.
AFD DRONE PROGRAM
• The Arlington Fire Department’ s Unmanned Aircraft Systems( UAS) Program, commonly known as the Drone Program, has become an essential tool in enhancing emergency response and public safety operations.
• Drones provide rapid aerial assessments that are especially valuable during search and rescue incidents, helping to quickly locate missing persons while keeping responders safe. During major public events— such as parades and Fourth of July celebrations— the program plays a vital role in monitoring large crowds and detecting illegal fireworks activity, allowing us to allocate resources more efficiently and reduce unnecessary wear on heavy apparatus.
• In severe weather conditions, particularly flash floods, the UAS program delivers real-time situational awareness. This improves our ability to assess impacted areas and coordinate a faster, more effective response.
• By reducing response times, improving safety for both the public and personnel, and optimizing the use of department resources, the UAS program stands as a clear example of how Arlington Fire Department is embracing technology to serve our community better.
• Over the July Fourth and New Year’ s Eve holidays in fiscal 2025, drones cleared a total of 258 calls for assistance.
VECTOR SOLUTIONS AND SCHEDULING
As part of our continued investment in operational efficiency and work-life balance for our personnel, the Arlington Fire Department implemented Vector Solutions and Scheduling, a modern digital platform designed to streamline and improve scheduling processes across the department.
This system has significantly enhanced the way we manage workforce logistics, providing both administrative benefits and greater flexibility for our firefighters.
Key features and benefits:
• Real-Time Scheduling Updates: Vector allows for instant updates and changes to shift assignments, improving responsiveness during staffing adjustments, unexpected absences, or emergency recalls.
• Mobile Access for Members: Firefighters can access their schedules from anywhere using the mobile app, empowering them to plan ahead, trade shifts, and manage availability more easily— giving them greater control over their personal and family time.
• Accurate Time Tracking and Data Collection: The platform ensures more reliable recording of hours worked, training time, and leave, helping support compliance, transparency, and long-term planning through robust data reporting.
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