He has done it all and is an asset to the fire department and the community. Allison explained that he chose the career of a firefighter because he enjoys helping others. He also added that in his years as fireman, he has seen the role of a fire fighter include just about every type of emergency situation possible. Those duties include having a working knowledge of how to handle hazardous materials. Allison explained that this is important in living in Coffeyville because of the truck and railroad traffic that passes through the community, containing hazardous materials.
People tend to take for granted all of the gasses and refinery fuels that travel by.
If something were to happen, the fire department would be called upon to contain the chemicals within the area and protect area life and property. Allison also explained that the fire department assists the emergency medical units, as well perform various specialized rescue missions, including water rescues, high angle rescues, and confined space rescues. Allison stated the typical fireman receives a minimum amount of 20 hours of training each month in order to maintain a level of efficiency in performing the wide range of tasks that today's firefighter may have to perform. As a result of his training, Allison has specialized in two areas, high angle rescues and confined space rescues. Allison explained that high angle rescue involves saving an injured person on high towers or objects, like water towers, grain elevators, and radio and TV towers.