Profile: Marinwood Fire Department
Bruce Lukaszewicz/Senior Correspondent
February, 2003
1st Responder Network
Commentary on Internet Emergency Services sites and issues
The Marinwood Fire Department is a municipal combination career/volunteer department located in Marin County, approximately 10 miles (as the crow flies) from San Francisco, and just around the corner from San Rafael. It's located in an area of California that has enjoyed a moderate growth spurt over the last thirty years. Full time employees consist of the Fire Chief; three shift Captains and seven Firefighters. Volunteers and mutual aid agreements with the City of San Rafael Fire Department and the Marin County Fire Department back up these members.
You can find the Marinwood Fire Department website at [www.marinwoodfire.org]. When I first viewed the site's HOME page, I was pleasantly surprised to see a blue lettering on white background color scheme. This is very easy on the eyes. The use of any harsh colors that might turn visitors away is not evident on this site. This is always important in designing a website, and it's obvious that it was a consideration here at Marinwood.
The CALENDAR pages are simple, crisp and to the point. The ability to view several months ahead is a great feature. Usually calendars are limited in their functionality and are slow loading. This one loads quickly, presents the information, and provides a hyperlink to the actual event.
The SITE INDEX is a huge help in maneuvering around the web site if you are searching for something in particular. This is a feature that webmasters should take advantage of, but usually do not.
The MEMBERS and FORUM areas are password protected and apparently are for departmental members only. There is a MAILING LIST link that gives the public the opportunity to be updated to changes on the website.
There is also a link provided so you can make a VEHICLE DONATION to the department. This helps the public learn that their donation is not only tax deductible, but also provides a valuable resource for the departments extrication and rescue drills.
On the left side of the HOME page, you will find a section on PUBLIC SAFETY. Webmasters should take note that this is one of the best ways to disseminate information to the public, not buried on an inside page, several levels down.
There is an excellent section on Disaster Supplies that should be included on every departmental web site. This list is quite comprehensive and will prepare you for most types of emergencies. This website has a wealth of information and is very professionally presented. Great job Marinwood Fire Department.
From: http://www.1stresponder.com | |
Saturday, February 4, 2012