By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
• Supporters of the Hampton Volunteer Fire Department in Connecticut chained themselves to fire trucks during a protest over the town’s suspension of the department’s operations.
• The protest occurred after the board of selectmen suspended operations of the volunteer fire department amid disputes over training, staffing and funding.
• Demonstrators called for reinstatement of the department and negotiations with town officials.
• Town and state officials said they are continuing discussions on next steps for fire protection in the community.
HAMPTON, CT — Supporters of the Hampton Volunteer Fire Department chained themselves to fire apparatus this week in protest of the town’s suspension of the department’s operations, local officials and residents said.
The demonstration followed a decision by the Hampton Board of Selectmen to suspend activities of the volunteer department amid ongoing disputes related to training requirements, staffing levels and funding for equipment and operations.
Protesters, including former firefighters and community members, called on town leaders to reinstate the volunteer department and resume negotiations to address concerns, staging the chained demonstration outside the firehouse.
Town and state officials said they continue to meet with stakeholders to determine next steps for ensuring fire protection services in the community while working toward a resolution.