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The year 2000 began in relative calm despite the fears of a Y2K crisis.  Although the members of the police department were prepared to deal with any potential problems, we were confident that it wouldn’t be necessary.

What would be necessary though would for us to continue to focus on the services we provide for the community.  One of our most recent service enhancements has been the implementation of our Early Access Defibrillator Program.  With the assistance of the Belmont Savings Bank, the East Cambridge Savings Bank and the Watertown Savings Bank we were able to purchase 5 defibrillators.  A portable defibrillator is assigned to each patrol sector in Town so that we can bring these lifesaving devices to victims of sudden cardiac arrest.  This I believe will complement the existing Emergency Medical Response System and increase the likelihood of survival during these events.   

We were also assisted in this program by the Mount Auburn Hospital who provided training to all of our police officers and members of the Public Safety Communications staff. 

When one considers the number of people who die from sudden cardiac arrest each year, it becomes quite clear that this program helps us fulfill one of our most basic missions- the preservation of life. 

Another program that allows us to focus on that basic mission is our Infant/Child Car Seat Installation Program. With evidence that 90-95% of all car seats are installed incorrectly it was imperative that we focus our attention on this problem.  In the year 2000, our technicians installed 690 car seats.  Due to the overwhelming response for this service we increased the number of car seat technicians to keep up with the demand.   In addition to our safety checkpoints and scheduled installations our technicians work with the Mount Auburn Hospital Birthing Center and new mothers groups to stress the importance of properly installed infant/child car seats.

Although these particular programs have created a slight diversion from our focus on traffic, we can assure residents that we will not be distracted from the growing concerns of traffic in the community and will work to make our community a safe place to live.

In closing, I would like to thank the Board of Selectmen and the Town Administrator for their support and look forward to continuing the programs we believe will make a difference in the quality of life for Belmont’s residents.  

Respectfully submitted,

Ronald J. Blanchette