VCFS is actively engaged in energy conservation by taking the following actions:

Fleet
• GPS installed in some vehicles, which reduces speed and cuts out unnecessary trips in vehicles.
• Ward diesel filters have been installed in engine apparatus. These filters are changed annually and remove contaminants.
• Two Ford Explorers in the fleet are being replaced with Ford Escapes for improved gas mileage.
• A hybrid vehicle has been added to the fleet.
• New battalion vehicles coming into the fleet have F150 gas engines replacing the previous F250 diesel engines, reducing sulfur emissions, improving gas mileage and providing a cost savings on preventive maintenance.

Fire Stations
• Reusable water bottles distributed to all employees for hydration purposes.
• Conserve energy and conserve water signage reminders placed throughout fire stations at light switches and faucets.
• Oil igloos at some fire stations for public use for recycling.
• Mobile pump testing system in place that uses recycled water for training purposes.
• Mitigation efforts use environmentally sensitive equipment to renew the land.
• A SOG is in place that addresses energy and natural resource conservation.
• Green cleaning materials are being used.
• Eighty percent of EMS/training forms are now electronic.
• Horizontal well installation. This system offers the opportunity to recover and reuse water from the superficial aquifer.
• Exterior lighting at some stations on sensors.
• Thermostats in stations controlled.
• Exhaust filtering system in some stations allows for healthier air for firefighters in their living areas.
• Firehouse software now allows for electronic reporting of Fire/EMS responses.

Office
• Recycling paper into scratch pads.
• Using e-mail as a “green” function.
• Recycling empty ink cartridges.
• Green plants in some offices are naturally improving air quality.
• Ordering pen refills instead of new pens.
• Ordering “green” flatware and plates.

Fire Police
• The team is now using E-flares on the roadway to protect firefighters and other emergency personnel on the scene of an incident. Traditional flares emit chemicals that are known to be carcinogens and ruin the clothing of those working close to them. E-flares are battery run providing a healthier environment for those working in close proximity to them and have the added benefit of being significantly less expensive.