This month as part of the Fire Department updates, we are going to begin shift profiles, and the first look will be at B-shift. This group is led by Capt. Shawn Allison with help from Lt. Richard Barrows. Firefighters include Bruce Cornelius, Shawn Kimball, Brennan McCarthy, Bill Pelrine, John Chisholm and Ryan Thomas.

Capt. Allison has been with the department since 1989 and attained the rank of captain in 2005. In addition to overseeing B-shift, Allison oversees all rescue programs and equipment. He ensures that the equipment is in good working order and all firefighters are up to date with the latest training in multiple disciplines.

Allison also oversees the maintenance and repair of all small engines within the department such as generators, chain saws and fans. Lt. Barrows has been with the department since 1987 and attained the rank of lieutenant in 2005. Barrows, in addition to assisting his captain in managing B-shift, takes care of all forestry-related equipment. He ensures the equipment is up to date and ready to roll when needed to control wild land fires. Bruce Cornelius, on the department since 1987 and a master firefighter since 1992, is the senior firefighter on the shift. He is followed by Shawn Kimball, a member since 2001 and a master firefighter since 2006. As senior members, they help guide the shift as they are performing their ancillary duties or when training evolutions are taking place. Bill Pelrine is a firefighter/paramedic; he has been with the department since 2001. John Chisholm is the other firefighter/paramedic and a member since 2004, and he and Bill provide advanced life support at emergency medical calls when it is required. The junior members of the crew are Brennan McCarthy and Ryan Thomas, members since 2006 and 2009, respectively; these guys are both excellent firefighters with bright futures who are highly trained and motivated.

B-shift responds to any and all types of emergencies whenever they are needed and performs at the highest level possible.