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SPRING, 2017
WILLS CREEK HOUSE FIRE KEEPS SIX DEPARTMENTS BUSY
JIM MCKEEVER
Wills Creek, OH - On Tuesday evening, February 28th at approximately 9:00 P.M., a call came into the Coshocton 911 Center reporting that a house was on fire, located on Franklin Twp. Road 15. The 911 dispatcher immediately set off tones for the Conesville FD. Engine RE2 (rescue/engine) immediately responded and went en-route to the scene.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
ADVERTISER INDEX
A guide to finding great companies
Company
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AirVac 911
Page
10,14
25
Armor Tuff Flooring
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Apparatus For Sale
30
Choice Clean Gear Choice Marketing FDIC
Finley Fire Equipment
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JIM WHITE
Crews stand by as Ladder-24 knocks down hot spots.
13,29
Firehouse Expo
FiroVac Power Systems Kimtek
Spotted Dog Technologies Sutphen
Task Force Tips Waterway Zodiac
23
Pastor Fernando Villicana, Fire Service Chaplain.
9
Local Heroes
16
11
Chaplain’s Corner
27
32
Pastor Fernando Villicana
3
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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 017-633) - Ohio Edition Vol. 16, No. 1 - is published quarterly, 4 times a year for $15 per year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore St. New Windsor, NY 12553. Periodicals Postage Paid at Newburgh, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or erA division of: rors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
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PROVIDED
Knocking down the fire.
JIM WHITE
Two-Alarm Fire Destroys Eight Apartments in Westerville Westerville, OH - On January 4th, the Columbus Division of Fire Alarm Office took calls reporting a fire in the 5000 block of Buffalo Run, located on the north side. Upon arrival, crews had fire showing from a two-story apartment complex. All occupants were out of the building. A second-alarm was transmitted, bringing in additional departments and manpower. Master streams and hand-lines knocked down the bulk of the fire. The Columbus Fire Auxiliary responded and assisted crews with different tasks on the fire ground and Box-15 responded for rehab. High winds and cold temps made for a long day. Crews remained on the scene for fire watch. Eight apartment units were destroyed by the fire.
Isaiah 3:1 (NIV) See now, the Lord, the Lord Almighty, is about to take from Jerusalem and Judah both supply and support… v2 the hero and the warrior, the judge and the prophet, the diviner and the elder, v3 the captain of fifty and the man of rank, the counselor, skilled craftsman and clever. It’s interesting to me how God uses heroes as part of the supply and support structure of society. As part of His judgement, God removes key people who are essential for a society to thrive. The removal of “heroes” leaves a huge vacuum in that city. Who are the “heroes” described in Isaiah? Well, to be honest, the Bible doesn’t give us specifics on the matter. However, what is clear is that they are a vital part of the health and all being of that society and are mentioned first in a list of essentials. If I were to address a group of Firefighters and ask all the “heroes” in the room to stand - few, if any, would respond. Why? Because if you refer to any Firefighter, Paramedic, EMT or Fire Support staff as a hero, they would not want to be identified as such and would most likely tell you that they are just doing their job. Well, they may think they're “just doing their job,” but the fact is that they are a critical part of the fabric of our society. -When a mother cries out for help and dials 911. -When a prayer goes out from under the wreckage of a TC. -When a family member is ex-
periencing a full arrest. -When first responders roll up on scene of an MCI on the freeway. -When prayers are being uttered as a citizen is experiencing maybe the very worst day in their lives. Our Firefighters, Paramedics, EMTs are Gods answer to those prayers. It's not what you do, it's who you are. You are our local heroes. “Hard times don't create heroes. It is during the hard times when the 'hero' within us is revealed.” (Bob Riley) It’s not just what you do, it’s who you are! You are a special breed of people who rise to the occasion every shift to answer the call for help. You are our local heroes. PRAYER: God, we come to you today with a sense of pride yet humbled by the fact that you care for us and are mindful of us. Proud of what you have been able to do through our Fire Departments - humbled and grateful for the strength and skill you have bestowed upon each first responder. A skill which enables them to do what they do to help those in need. We know that your word declares that “without You, we can do nothing.” I pray that your hand of protection would be upon each Firefighter as they place themselves in harms way and continually stand in the gap for the citizens of our cities. We thank you Lord, and pray with the faith that “when they walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” (Isaiah 43:2b) We pray that you would reveal yourself to each and every one of our heroes as they become tools in your hand. We pray all of this in the name of the Father the Son and the Holy Spirit - AMEN
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
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Tuscarawas County MCI Exercise Tests First Responders Dover, OH - On Saturday, November 19, 2016 at 8:00 A.M., a disgruntled employee of the ABC Chemical Company was fired for making threats to a fellow employee and was instructed to return his truck, along with all com- JUMP TO FILE # pany issued equip- 010217120 ment and uniforms. About one hour later, the employee rammed the gate at work with his truck and trailer full of chorine and drove to the rear of the compound looking for the co-worker he had previously confronted. In doing so, he damaged the relief valve on the top of the tanker, causing a leak that produced a cloud of chlorine gas that drifted towards a densely populated neighborhood. The driver exited the cab, which was partially embedded in a building, and started looking for other ABC employees who scattered at the scene upon impact. He then made his way to the office where bystanders reported hearing several shots fired. At 9:01 A.M., Tuscarawas County 911 dispatchers received numerous calls of a possible shooting and chlorine gas leak at ABC Chemicals. Callers indicated that several people have been shot and the shooter was still on the property, and that they heard additional gun shots. At the same time, callers from the surrounding neighborhood called about a strange gas cloud and multiple shots being fired nearby. With reports of multiple gun shots, all law enforcement agencies in the area were given a priority dispatch and sent to the scene. The Dover Police Department was first on scene and joined by several Tuscarawas County Sheriff and Ohio Highway Patrol units that were in the area. At the same time, the Dover Fire Department arrived on scene and staged in a safe location until the scene was secured and then established ABC Chemicals Incident Command. Law enforcement officers split into teams and began searching for the shooter, who was wearing tan Carhart pants and a green jacket. While clearing buildings, they heard several additional shots and made their way to the office, where they found 10 people with multiple gunshot wounds, in addition to several people who were overcome by the fumes from the chlorine leak. Upon hearing the report from the officers, the Incident Commander asked for additional ambulances, which would stage in the safe zone until given the "all clear" to enter the compound. Additional gunshots were heard in a barn at the rear of the property, which sent the officers looking for the shooter. Upon entering the barn, the shooter fired at the officers from a concealed location, hitting one in the leg and grazing another’s cheek. Luckily, both officers were wearing bullet
proof vests and their injuries were non-life-threatening. During the intense exchange of fire, the gunman was hit several times and neutralized, which cleared the way for EMS and Fire units to enter the area. Seven ambulances from Smith Ambulance, Strasburg, Sugar Creek, Dover, and EMS from Swiss Valley arrived on scene and began treating the victims with injuries ranging from shock to intestinal gunshot wounds. Several of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene and the wounded were sent to Union Hospital in Dover and Trinity Hospital in Dennison. As soon as it was safe to enter the compound, the Tuscarawas County Haz-Mat Team, which was dispatched due the chlorine gas leak, set up a command center upwind from the leaking tanker. They also found victims from the chlorine gas leak and sent the ambulatory gas victims to a decontamination site, where Wayne Township Engine 11 and crew took care of them. Medics from Sugar Creek and Strasburg assisted and assessed the exposure victims. The severe cases were also transported by Smith Ambulance to Union Hospital, which was set up to receive the contaminated victims. Two Haz-Mat Team members suited up in Class-A suits to stop the chlorine gas leak. By 11:30 A.M., the Haz-Mat Team was on scene at the tanker and assembled the leak suppression collar, bringing the chlorine gas leak to an end. After checking the trailer for additional leak point and damage, they made their way to the Decon area and the scene was declared safe by 11:45 A.M. This is every first responder's nightmare, but luckily, this was just a drill designed by the creative minds of the Tuscarawas County EMA and LEPC to test the county’s ability to handle a mass casualty incident. The exercise took place at the Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds in Dover. Makeup artists from the Little Theater of New Philadelphia volunteered their time and talent and transformed the willing volunteers into victims for the event by creating wounds that were extremely realistic. This year’s exercise was the first to include an active shooter element and inclusion of law enforcement as leading participant, compared to other years where they were support elements. In addition to the mass casualties from the active shooter, first responders had to deal with a chlorine gas release, which included the HazMat team and fire department support for decontamination and containment. The EMS Element was also tested and 10 patients were transported to Union Hospital in Dover and Trinity Hospital in Dennison, where emergency room personnel received the GSW patients and contaminated chlorine gas exposure patients. The Muskingum Chapter of
Medics from Smith Ambulance attend to a shooting victim during the exercise.
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
The decontaminated chlorine gas victims are loaded into a Sugar Creek Medic unit for further treatment at Union Hospital.
the American Red Cross played a crucial role behind the scene and set up a shelter at a local church for residents displaced from the chlorine gas leak. The Salvation Army Canteen also operated at the scene, providing hot beverages and snacks for the first responders who were dealing with the cold, damp weather. Smith Ambulance’s Mass Casualty Trailer was also utilized and a large contingent of Smith
Paramedic Ambulances were present for the exercise, in addition to medic units from local departments. Shortly after noon, everyone gathered for a hot lunch provided by HRN Restoration and participated in the incident critique. Observers from various County agencies and the State of Ohio EMA gave their initial reports and discussed what worked well and
identified things that may need to be tweaked. All observers present praised the exercise and were impressed with the large number of people and first responders that volunteered their time on such a miserable day, which started with driving rain and ended with heavy snow. - DAVID SCHLOSSER
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In memory of those who gave all
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty
Texas: William ‘Iron Bill’ Dowling, 43 Rank: Captain Incident Date: May 31, 2013 Death Date: March 7, 2017 Fire Department:Houston Fire Department Initial Summary: Captain William ‘Iron Bill’ Dowling passed away on March 7, 2017, from complications of the severe injuries suffered in the Southwest Inn fire on May 31, 2013, that killed four other Houston firefighters and seriously injured many more. The Southwest Inn fire is considered the deadliest day in Houston Fire Department history. In a statement, the Houston Fire Department said of Captain Dowling that “the incredible strength and bravery he showed as he and his family rebuilt his life – and theirs – after his injuries inspired us all. Please keep the Dowling family and all of the men and women of our fire department in your prayers.” Pennsylvania: Dennis DeVoe, 45 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: March 10, 2017 Death Date: March 11, 2017 Fire Department: Harrisburg Bureau of Fire Initial Summary: Lieutenant Dennis DeVoe died from injuries sustained while responding to a multiple alarm row house fire which had confirmed civilian entrapment. DeVoe’s privately owned vehicle was struck on the passenger side at a controlled intersection by a stolen vehicle, reportedly being operated by an intoxicated 19 year-old female who failed to stop. According to reports, the force of the accident sent Lt. DeVoe’s vehicle through a fence and into a parking lot. The driver of the stolen vehicle who fled the scene was arrested later at the hospital by law enforcement. Mississippi: Clinton Alvin Beasley, 80 Rank: Deputy Chief Incident Date: March 15, 2017 Death Date: March 15, 2017 Fire Department: Sumrall Volunteer Fire Department
Initial Summary: Deputy Chief Clinton Alvin Beasley and Firefighter Loretta Ann Sykes were directing traffic at the scene where a dump truck got tangled in power lines at Mississippi 589 and Oloh Road (Lamar County, MS) when they were struck by a hit-and-run driver. Both Beasley and Sykes passed away at the scene from injuries sustained when hit. The driver of the vehicle was later apprehended by Lamar County law enforcement. Mississippi: Loretta Ann Sykes, 53 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: March 15, 2017 Death Date: March 15, 2017 Fire Department: Sumrall Volunteer Fire Department Initial Summary: Deputy Chief Clinton Alvin Beasley and Firefighter Loretta Ann Sykes were directing traffic at the scene where a dump truck got tangled in power lines at Mississippi 589 and Oloh Road (Lamar County, MS) when they were struck by a hit-and-run driver. Both Beasley and Sykes passed away at the scene from injuries sustained when hit. The driver of the vehicle was later apprehended by Lamar County law enforcement.
New York: Yadira Arroyo, 44 Rank: EMT Incident Date: March 16, 2017 Death Date: March 16, 2017 Fire Department: FDNY EMS Station House 26 Initial Summary: FDNY EMT Yadira Arroyo, 44, was assigned to Station 26 in the Bronx and bravely served the Department for 14 years. EMT Arroyo was critically injured while responding to a medical call in the Bronx when an individual seized control of her ambulance and struck her. She was transported to Jacobi Medical Center where she succumbed to her injuries. She is the 8th member of FDNY EMS to die in the line of duty, and the 1146th member of the Department to make the Supreme Sacrifice while serving our city.
HE HE ER ERO ROES RO OES ES INK INK
1st Responder Newspape er features EMERGENCY SERVICES RELA ATED TATTOOS
Eric Moore has been a firefighter for almost 30 years, first joining the department in November of 1988. The tattoo he chose to get covers his entire back and took almost three months to complete, from September until November of 2014. When asked what inspired him to get this specific tattoo, Eric responded "my inspiration came from the love for my brothers lost on that fateful day and the need for a tribute, as well as my love for what we do and my love of ink." Eric currently works for Daly City Fire Department, located in Daly City, CA.
Would you like your emergency services related tattoo featured here? Contact Lindsey at
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DID YOU K NOW
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Applying Super Glue to cotton results in a rapid chemical reaction that releases enough heat to cause minor burns, so typically this should be avoided. However, if enough super glue is added to the cotton, it will catch on fire, making this a great trick to keep in mind in survival situations. So if you ever find yourself lost in the woods with nothing but a first aid kit, this little trick will help you start a fire.
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
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Does Social Media Belong in Today’s Fire Service? Today, almost everyone has a smart phone and endless opportunities to record life in real time, the good and the bad. Fire departments must now embrace the social media world in which we live. But what role does social media play in the fire service? Most fire departments now have an SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) or SOG (Standard Operating Guideline) addressing social media. But is social media helping or hurting your department? Herein lies the problem. Does the SOP or SOG truly guide the fire service to use social media to their advantage? Public Relations is something the fire service has definitely not mastered. As a rookie volunteer firefighter in the early 90’s, one of the first things stressed to me was “Never take any pictures because you will end up in court." The truth is, I would end up in court with or without the pictures and it would be much more difficult to convey accuracy without pictures to support and recreate the scene. Several departments have now used social media, such as Facebook and Instagram, to propel their departments to a new level. This allows fire departments the ability to reach a new generation of firefighters because the new generation is definitely connected by technology and social media. Some departments have even utilized social media to enlist community support to obtain new apparatus, afford pay raises, and seek potential new personnel. Social media has also heightened public awareness of the dangers involved with firefighting and virtually taken viewers into the fire via social media. Scott Ziegler, a firefighter with Detroit Fire Department, wore a helmet cam for a year while employed as a firefighter with Highland Park, Michigan Fire Department. Scott then appeared on national news, giving the nation a glimpse into the lifethreatening experiences a firefighter faces every day. Am I implying that all social media, or even news media coverage is good? Absolutely not! The key is to train staff about social media etiquette and how to embrace the photographers on the side lines of the scene or during an incident. Yes, you read that correctly; “photographers on the side lines". I recently traveled to California to experience fire photography as a fire chaser, known as buffing. I had the honor of working side by side with two Southern California fire photographers, Tod Sudmeier (@epn564) and Brandy Carlos (@epn106). I was amazed at how many fire departments not only welcomed our presence, but they actually encouraged us to get close to the action. Of course, we followed the safety rules outlined by each fire de-
BRANDY CARLOS/@EPN106
Chief Joel Miller, Federal Government Fire Chief, fire department social media consultant and owner of the world’s largest Fire Instagram page (@chief_miller).
partment, such as wearing wildland firefighting gear as we stood on the front lines, streaming live footage via Periscope and Facebook Live to hundreds, even thousands of viewers around the world. We each shared awesome pictures capturing the action in real time on some of the world’s largest fire service based social media sites. Social media has even helped the fire service recruit some of the best candidates for the job simply due to the awareness and visibility, triggering an increase in applicants. Los Angeles County, Los Angeles City and Cal Fire are some of the most recognizable departments in the world, partially due to social media and dedicated fire photographers. Social media also raises community awareness of the great service their tax dollars are paying for. Shortly after my California experience, again with California fire photographers Tod Sudmeier (@epn564) and Brandy Carlos (@epn106), we traveled to Detroit, Michigan. Detroit is one of the country’s most deprived cities and busiest fire departments. They are confronted with a high number of arson related fires. I found that the Battalion Chief would be the one to set the temperature as to how well received the fire photographers were on scene. I made calls where the Battalion Chief himself would be snapping shots as much as he could. Most Battalion Chiefs welcomed us as we followed their rules and stayed out of harm’s way. Real-time live broadcast from DFD went out around the world via social media. The world saw top notch firefighters doing an amazing job, despite the struggles
their department has experienced in the way of equipment and manpower. We later responded to a call with DFD where the Battalion Chief was anti-fire photographer and anti-social media. As one photographer was streaming live to viewers world-wide (while obeying all the rules and respecting the firefighters on scene from a safe distance outside the hotzone), the Battalion Chief began yelling at him. The photographer, a retired firefighter himself, chose to cut the live feed as to not reflect negatively on the fire department. After all, it was the firefighters that we were there to represent and they deserve the utmost respect. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident and the photographer has felt it necessary to cut live feed on other occasions at different locations. Realistically, we live in a world where everyone is at the mercy of social media. Fire departments need to embrace the professional fire photographers, as their goal of honoring the fire service is the one true defense guarding fire departments from the negative effects social media can bring. Your department can either stand by and become a casualty of social media, or your department can choose to prepare staff and public relation officers on how to use social media to propel your department to the next level. Social media is here to stay. I encourage each of you to choose a direction and develop a plan for the role social media will play in the success of your department. The choice is yours, make it a good one! - CHIEF JOEL MILLER
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Contact Lindsey TODAY for more information! The rear of the main fire building.
JIM WHITE
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Firefighters Battle Two-Alarm Apartment Fire in Columbus
Columbus, OH - On January 2nd around 6:00 A.M., the Columbus Ohio Division of Fire Alarm office took calls reporting a fire in the 5600 block of Celtic Sea Lane. Crews arrived and found heavy smoke and fire showing from a two-story apartment building, along with gas meters on fire. A second-alarm was transmitted, bringing in extra companies. Crews used tower ladders and several lines to knock down the fire. Box 15 Rehab and the Columbus Fire Auxiliary also responded. The Auxiliary crew was put to work assisting with hot spots, overhaul and other duties. Crews remained on scene for fire watch.
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BUDDY SHOTS
If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Buddy Shots” feature please upload them on our website www.1RBN.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
?
It’s estimated that over 95% of structural fires in Detroit are due to arson, which is fifty times the national average.
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
Dover, OH - This buddy shot is dedicated to the Wayne Twp. VFD in Dundee, Ohio whose members took time to pose for this photo on November 19th, 2016. Firefighter Reuben Mast (far left), lost his life while responding to a medic call on December 19th, a month to the day this shot was taken. Rest in Peace Reuben, you are missed.
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
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Firefighters working on the remains of the home.
JIM MCKEEVER
House Fire in Wills Creek Keeps Six Departments Busy Wills Creek, OH – On Tuesday evening, February 28th at approximately 9:00 P.M., a call came into the Coshocton 911 Center reporting that a house was on fire, located on Franklin Twp. Road 15. The 911 dispatcher immediately set off tones for the Conesville FD. Engine RE2 (rescue/engine) immediately responded and went en-route to the scene. While en-route, Engine RE2 requested additional departments for tankers and manpower. The responding units to the second and third alarms was as follows: Coshocton FD, Three Rivers FD, West Lafayette FD, Jackson Twp. FD and Adansville FD from Musk-
JUMP TO FILE #041217108 ingum County. Engine RE2 was the first on scene and observed a double-wide home with additions attached, mostly consumed. There was also a large propane tank venting and on fire. The trash line was stretched from the front of the engine and was used to keep the propane tank cool. Two additional hand-lines were then stretched to start extinguishing what was left of the house. Tankers and other units arrived on scene and water supply was es-
tablished by nursing off of the tankers. With plenty of manpower, firefighters were able to take a turn in rehab with help from Tom Dile from the Salvation Army. The power company was called to remove a live wire from the pole to the house so that extinguishment could be completed. The house was deemed a total loss and the fire was ruled as undetermined. Also assisting on scene was Coshocton County EMS, the Cohocton County Sheriff’s Office and Tom Dile from the Salvation Army with refreshments and snacks. - JIM MCKEEVER
TWINSBURG FD
Twinsburg Resident Recognized for LifeSaving Efforts Twinsburg, OH - Twinsburg resident Wade Wooten was recently issued a Proclamation from Mayor Ted Yates for his heroic efforts in rescuing his neighbor during a February 11, 2017 apartment fire. Twinsburg Fire Chief Tim Morgan also thanked Wooten for his efforts and additional assistance during the fire investigation.
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JIM MCKEEVER
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
Automatic Fire Alarm or Is It? STAYING SAFE
Chief Henry Campbell
The other morning, as I was finishing breakfast and admiring the 22-inches of freshly fallen snow from two days prior, my pager opened, announcing for my department to respond to an Automatic Fire Alarm at a private residence. I pushed away from the table, bundled up, and headed for the location, which was less than a mile from my home. En-route to the location, an additional dispatch announced that the alarm company had called back, reporting an overheated pan on the stove. With the heavy snow plowed up on the side of the road, it made it difficult to spot addresses on mailboxes, which were covered in snow. As I found the correct location, a residence sitting back 200-feet from the street, the first rig pulled up. Three of us trudged up the driveway, rang the door bell and were met by the homeowner, who offered her apologies for having us respond to an unnecessary alarm. She explained that she was drying a large cast iron frying pan on the stove and had momentarily forgotten about it, that is, until the home alarm sensed the smoke and activated the alarm system. The homeowner had called the alarm company requesting they cancel the alarm and was advised that the fire department was on the way and couldn’t be cancelled. We explained how her alarm system works and how fire dispatch works in conjunction with her alarm system. The homeowner was most appreciative of our response and explanation as to why we continued our response to her location. We said our goodbyes as she continued to apologize, and headed back to the fire station. Our fire department, like many others, is dispatched to many AFA’s (automatic fire alarms) in our community, and as in many departments, we have members who tend to shrug off AFA’s with a negative remark, and others who may not respond to the alarm. The members will complain that the AFA’s are wearing them out, the constant crying “Wolf” when there is no wolf, has an impact on them. Many years ago, fire alarm systems were found in commercial buildings, buildings of public assembly, institutional facilities, and where fire sprinkler systems were installed. Today, under the name Security Systems, they can be found in almost any type occupancy, including residential homes. The primary function of
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the alarm system is to detect and initiate the transmission of an alarm to a private monitoring agency, where it is then transmitted to the local 911 dispatch center. Fire, Police or EMS assistance, or any combination, will be automatically dispatched and once on the way, will not be returned by dispatch. Dispatch may transmit additional information, but they will not terminate your response. That will be determined by on scene investigation, or department policy. On scene investigation is always the best method. Maybe the occupant thought the problem was minor and had not noticed any fire spread. Cancelling response based on occupant call back may result in having to play catch up, followed by legal ramifications. There also are false alarms transmitted from AFA’s caused by a variety of reasons. The primary reason would be poor, or lack of main-
tenance. Dust in the detector head is common; blow it out with a can of air and the system is back in business. Every now and then, the system may malfunction for no apparent reason. If it is a continual problem, the system needs technical assistance to correct the problem. Many communities have local ordinances that levy fines after so many false alarms are transmitted. AFA’s are a part of the American technology age and they do make the job of firefighting safer by initiating early response to what may be smoke scares or incipient fires. Even I have a system! Definition of automatic fire alarm system: a fire alarm system which detects the presence of a fire and automatically initiates a signal indicating its detection. To be continued... Till next time, Stay Safe and God Bless!
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FLASHBACK If you have photos you would like to see in our “FLASHBACK” feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
COURTESY OF CLEVELAND HEIGHTS FD
Cleveland Heights, OH - Pictured is a 1928 American LaFrance Pumper conducting training at Shaker Lakes in August of 1947. This rig was recently donated to the Western Reserve Fire Museum.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
OH Firefighters and Cops Face Off in Charitable Boxing Tournament Columbus, OH - Firefighters and law enforcement athletes faced off during the third annual Guns & Hoses amateur boxing tournament, held at the 2017 Arnold Sports Festival and hosted by the Hollywood Casino on Thursday, March 1st. JUMP TO FILE# F o u r t e e n 040717109 matches pitted police officers against firefighters from throughout Ohio to benefit the Columbus Firefighters Foundation and the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation. - JAMES MILLER/ COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
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Heroes in Action
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
Metro Lifeflight cruising over Zoar Village on a medical call on February 19th, 2017.
American Firefighters Heroes in Action By Brain Damage Films Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-Mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $19.95 (DVD) This DVD is 70 minutes in length. It is dedicated to the brave men and women of all fire departments across America. It promotes the viewers to support their local firefighters. Its purpose is to provide action footage of many emergency scenes where firefighters show dedication, professionalism and efficiency, resulting in most cases with the saving of life. The clips are quick. They are of different types of fires (one of a car fire set by vandals), a boat rescue and numerous traffic acci-
dents. Most of the accidents resulted from alcohol and bad judgement. The locations are not identified, just the time of the incident’s operation and type of call. The viewer can see by the apparatus lettering and firefighter uniforms as to where most of these incidents occurred. In almost all of the scenes, the American River Fire Department operated. This department is part of the Sacramento County, California Metro Fire District, which includes a number of other fire departments. There are many close up shots, particularly when patient immobilization and extrication came into play. Conversations among the emergency responders can also be heard. This is a video that does justice to the recognition of the work of firefighters and is a salute to their professionalism and compassion for the patients that required emergency medical service. I, as a retired member of the fire service, appreciate the recognition shown by Brain Damage Films.
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Spring, 2017
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Spring, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
Stout and Griffin Featured Presenters at 22nd Annual Jackson Fire Expo Canton, OH – Jackson High School was again home to the 22nd Annual Jackson Fire Expo on January 14th and 15th, 2017. Participants that attended the two-day event had the opportunity to see world class presentations on is- JUMP TO FILE # sues affecting the 021217104 fire service, as well as visiting an exhibition hall filled with the latest firefighting equipment. The attendance for Saturday’s session was 150 and Sunday’s figures were 170 firefighters, representing 41 departments from Northeast Ohio. Saturday’s session started with a continental breakfast and vendor’s expo, which ran from 7:30 A.M. to 9:00 A.M. The expo officially kicked off at 9:00 A.M. when the Jackson Township Fire Department Honor Guard presented the colors. The first presenter to speak was Dennis Stout, who is the regional sales manager for Bullard Emergency Responders Division, covering Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia and Tennessee. His presentation was titled “Thermal Imaging for the Fire Service,” and covered the many uses of thermal imagers on the fire ground and during various responses. Dennis's years of experience in the fire service and presentation provided a wealth of information that will undoubtedly improve the performance of firefighters on the fire ground. Sunday’s session featured Captain David Griffin, PhD of the Charleston, South Carolina Fire Department. His presentation, titled “In Honor of the Charleston 9; A Study of Change Following Tragedy,” covered the events and aftermath of the Charleston Super Sofa Store Fire, which occurred on
June 18th, 2007. David Griffin’s first-hand account as the driver of the first-in engine was very thought provoking and emotional as he covered the events of that fateful day, which claimed the lives of nine of his fellow firefighters. He also discussed the lessons learned, as well as the organizational and tactical changes that were made afterwards. This year’s expo also attracted 34 vendors who set up booths in the High School Commons and atrium. Attendees had the opportunity to view and purchase the latest in PPE, thermal imagers, hand tools, nozzles, environmental sensors, books and training material, EMS gear, and rescue equipment. Service organizations, such as the Stark Fire Department Rehab Unit (FDRU) and the Stark County Firefighters Association, were also present and popular spots that seemed to collect firefighters. Also this year, the attendees were greeted by several ambulance demos from Wheeled Coach, PLCustom, Lifeline, and the FDRU’s Rehab 1 as they entered the expo hall. All who were in attendance were treated to a catered lunch on both days. Saturday’s meal was catered by Mission BBQ and sponsored by Design Restoration and Reconstruction of North Canton, while Sunday’s lunch was sponsored by the Jackson Township Professional Firefighters and Jackson Township Fire Department. In addition to the catered lunches, participants were invited to a special reception on Saturday evening at the Fox & Hound Pub, which allowed attendees, vendors and presenters to get together and become better acquainted. The Jackson Fire Expo is held annually and is one of Ohio’s premiere fire schools. The Expo is
Ambulances from PL Custom, Wheeled Coach and Lifeline welcomed visitors to the 22nd Jackson Fire Expo. DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
Dennis Stout during his presentation on the uses of Thermal Imagers during Saturday's session.
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Capt. David Griffin, PhD of the Charleston FD, during his presentation on Sunday.
proudly sponsored by the Jackson Professional Firefighters Local 2280 and Jackson Township Fire Department. They also have a webpage that is regulated regularly and includes on-line registration forms,
lodging information and maps. Please visit www.jacksonfirefighters.com to learn more about the Jackson Township Fire Department and the upcoming 2018 Expo. Special thanks to JTFD Battal-
JTFD
ion Chief Kai Rieger for providing information for this story. - DAVID SCHLOSSER
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
Spring, 2017
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Vehicle News
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
The East Holmes Fire District recently placed this 2017 The Jackson Twp. FD recently placed this 2017 Chevy The Wooster Twp. FD recently placed this 2016 Ford/Lifeline ALS equipped ambulance into service as Tahoe into service as the Chief’s Unit. Int’l/Firovac 500/2000 Eagle QP Tanker- Pumper into Squad 51. service as T-143.
The East Holmes Fire District recently placed this 2016 Wilmot Fire & Rescue has taken delivery of a 2016 Pickerel Vol. Fire & Rescue recently placed this 2016 Chevrolet Suburban into service as Command 810. Dodge 4500, 4x4, with LiquidSpring, Type-I, PL Custom Int’l/Firovac 2850-gallon Raven model tanker into servClassic 170. ice as T-3. DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
NICK SCHLABACH
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
The Uhrichsville Fire Department recently placed this The Midvale VFD recently placed this 1993 Int'l/Pierce The Huron Fire Department recently placed this 2016 Ford F-250, 4x4, Pick-Up into service as U-409. 1996 Ford/Braun ambulance into service as Medic 1910. 1250/750 Pumper into service as E-503. DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
FCV VFD (Conesville, OH) placed into service a new Sut- The Hudson FD recently placed this 2015 Pierce Impel The Zoar VFD recently placed this 1990 Duplex/Ameriphen Rescue/Engine, with a Cummins Diesel engine and 1500/1000/10 Rescue-Pumper into service as E-14. can Fire Eagle 1250/750 10A/10B Rescue Pumper into an Allison transmission. It has a 1000-gallon tank with a service a RE-1603. 1,500-GPM Hale pump, and seats five firefighters. JIM MCKEEVER
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1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
EMERGENCY AIRCRAFT If you have photos you would like to see in our “Emergency Aircraft” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
MedFlight 4 prepares to take off from Coshocton Regional Medical Center for a patient transfer.
JIM MCKEEVER
JIM WHITE
Firefighters Quickly Knock Working House Fire in Worthington Worthington, OH - On February 6th around 11:00 A.M., the City of Worthington alarm office took calls reporting a fire in the 400 block of Longfellow Avenue. Station 100 arrived on scene with heavy fire showing from a two-story house and All-Hands went to work. Columbus Fire sent several crews to assist at the incident. Several hand-lines were used to knock down the fire.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE If you have photos you would like to see in our “Tools Of the Trade” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Dover, OH - A Dover firefighter takes time during a recent demonstration to show some future firefighters the finer points of his extrication tools.
DAVID J.SCHLOSSER
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
Spring, 2017
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RICHARD BILLINGS Spring, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
PATCH OF THE MONTH If you have photos you would like to see in our “Patch of the month “feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
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FACES OF OHIO’S EMERGENCY SERVICES
To see your “Faces” in the newspaper, upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com, email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com or mail them to 1st Responder News, 1 Ardmore Street. New Windsor, NY 12553.
Jackson Twp. Firefighter Keith Krebs II on scene at a recent house fire.
JIM MCKEEVER
Columbus Firefighter John J. Hammel (center) was selected by his officers and peers as the February 2017 Firefighter of the Month. COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
Bob Smith and Christine Westlake of Smith Ambulance’s MCI unit take time to pose for a photo during a recent training exercise in Dover, Ohio.
DAVID J. SCHLOSSER
CFD AUX
Coshocton FD Captain Jim Ward at a recent kitchen fire.
JIM MCKEEVER
Auxiliary Firefighters Jim White and Rob Gomes take a break during a second-alarm fire in Columbus.
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1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
ON THE LITER SIDE
If you have photos you would like to see in our “On The Liter Side” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
MIKE RUSSELL
Where to Begin: Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Your Fire Department
ATHENS FD
Athens, OH - The Athens Fire Department had a very special visitor on March 17th, a wonderful young lady named Maddie. Maddie and her mother very generously brought them Girl Scout cookies, and an even more thoughtful card! Cards like this are a reminder of why emergency personnel do what they do, and without fail, will bring a smile to every firefighter's face who reads it!
DID YOU K NOW
Earth is the only known planet where fire can burn. Everywhere else: Not enough oxygen.
?
The new year has rolled in and your fire department has started the dialogue to consider incorporating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), often referred to as “drones”, into departmental operations. Your officers and firefighters have witnessed some of the benefits of using UAS during departmental operations because a local hobbyist has volunteered to fly his aerial vehicle over your fire scenes and has shared the videos in real-time with the chief. So, where do you go from this point? The first step is to immediately stop what you are doing. While the intentions of the hobbyist may be sincere and much appreciated by the fire department, they go against federal regulations and can land both the fire department and the hobbyist in serious trouble, including fines adding up to tens of thousands of dollars, if not more. The same holds true for any firefighter who may be using his or her personal UAS on scene for the benefit of the fire department. The bottom line is, this is not allowed within the scope of federal UAS regulations. Fire chiefs have recognized the value of using UAS during departmental operations. Whether it’s for scene size up, hazmat conditions, search and rescue, or large scale incidents, the benefits of this technology are certainly notable. The decision to acquire a UAS is not one that should be entered into lightly. For any fire department, this process should be initiated with a strategiclevel needs assessment that evaluates a variety of factors, including types of calls, number of alarms, man-
JUMP TO FILE #121216109 power and budget. The appropriate UAS platform and accessories must also be matched with the department’s operational needs. Fire departments need to conscientiously and sensibly establish comprehensive and risk adverse UAS programs along with substantial educational and training protocols for the utilization of this technology as a practical and sustainable tool. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has established separate guidelines for the use of UAS by public organizations as compared to hobbyists and commercial entities. As public organizations, fire departments need to follow the procedures set forth in this category by the FAA in order to deploy UAS legally and safely during departmental operations. Through the FAA, public agencies can apply for a Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) in order to seek approval to conduct UAS operations in the nation’s airspace. This approval follows a lengthy all-inclusive operational and technical preparation by the fire department and an equivalent review by the FAA. Fire departments may also utilize elements of the newly designated FAA small UAS rule (Part 107) to become properly certified to fly for their department’s aerial vehicle. Attaining this certification, which must be renewed every 24 months, requires becoming proficient in general aeronautical knowledge. This includes being able
to read visual flight rules (VFR) sectional charts in order to recognize various airspaces and their limits; the understanding of weather phenomena and their effects on your UAS in flight; and specifics about the Part 107 regulations that you will be flying under. Depending upon the individual, preparation for this test could take more than 20 hours of study time. All of these details illuminate the fact that fire departments are not permitted to simply go to a store, purchase a drone, and deploy it during their calls. It is an exciting time in the world of unmanned aerial technology. Use cases are presenting themselves at dizzying rates as the aerial and imagery technology continues to rapidly advance. In this blur of progress it is essential for fire departments and other public agencies to remember that they are being closely scrutinized by the public. Your department needs to ensure that it has developed and implemented a comprehensive UAS program that encompasses regulatory compliance, ground safety, executive management and operational training. Much consideration needs to be made by your department and municipality in regard to budgeting and vendor management, as well as designing appropriate policies, standard operating procedures and emergency safety protocols. In the end, the essential objective is to be able to deploy your UAS in a safe and responsible manner in order to aid your department in effectively saving lives and property. - MIKE RUSSELL
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
Spring, 2017
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Marlboro Fire Company Hosts Spring Water Movement Drill Stark County, OH - Fire departments from four counties, representing 21 fire departments, spent Sunday, April 9th honing their water delivery skills at the Stark Parks Walborn Reservoir, which spans the borders of JUMP TO FILE # Northern Stark and 041317129 Southern Portage County. The weather was fantastic and everyone enjoyed a clear sunny day, with temperatures in the high 70’s. The training exercise was hosted by the Marlboro Fire Company with exceptional support from the Marlboro Fire Ladies Auxiliary, who fed the 85-plus participants that volunteered for this massive event. The staff of the Fire Department Rehab Unit (FDRU) also assisted by providing rehab services and crews that recorded the flow rates and cycle timing at the fill and dump sites. The water shuttle exercise utilized 19 tankers, ranging from 2,000 to 4,000-gallon capacities running a 5.9-mile loop around the reservoir. There were five fill sites set up to accommodate the tanker shuttle with three at the Walborn Reservoir for the conventional units, which accommodated five tankers at each location. Two of the conventional fill sites utilized 1250-GPM pumpers, which fed four or five-inch LDH to supply a manifold valve that also utilized a four-inch supply line or (two) three-inch supply lines to fill the tankers. There was a third 1250-GPM pumper at a conventional fill site that used a dry hydrant from a private pond on the same loop. Two fill sites were set up for the self-loading vacuum tanker, with one at the reservoir and one at the private pond. It was decided early on to keep the vacuum tankers on their own loop because they were more efficient and could fill at higher rates. This also cut down on congestion and allowed them to blend into the shuttle stream without having to wait on slower units to fill at the packed fill sites. The dump site was located at the Stark Parks lot, at the opposite end of the Walborn Reservoir, where (seven) 3,000-gallons (and larger) drop tanks were set up to allow tankers to use their side and rear dumps. Four jet siphons transferred water between the tanks and allowed for multiple tankers to discharge at the same time to keep up with the flow requirements. (Two) 1750-GPM pumpers supplied Louisville’s 2000-GPM Tower and hose monster deluge unit, which discharged
back into the lake. Larry Reber of Firovac provided the hose monster flow rate monitoring unit and three of his company’s patented high-volume, low-level strainers (HVLL) for the exercise. The initial pumper and dump tank became operational within the 18-minutes of the start and maintained a 790-GPM flow rate. A second pumper went into service 10-minutes later, which increased the flow rate to 2150-GPM and held that rate for an hour, eventually maxing out at 2250-GPM. During the 90-minute shuttle, the crews supplied 185,000-gallons of water with an average loop time of 24.5-minutes, which accounted for dump time, travel time empty, fill time and travel time full and staging. The average fill time was two-minutes and 41seconds for the tankers and the average dump time was one-minute and 55-seconds per unit. These averages took into consideration tank size, and whether they were conventional or self-loading vacuum units. Some conventional tankers left the dump site with partial loads to keep the shuttle moving smoothly and to eliminate congestion. The exercise was very productive and was a testament that departments from four counties could work together on such a large scale, with little or no radio communication. Apart from four departments, this exercise represented a 5th-alarm tanker assignment for the Marlboro Fire Company, which has several large manufacturing facilities in their Jurisdiction. Departments from Stark County participating in the water shuttle included the Marlboro Fire Company (host), Hartville Fire, Lexington Twp. Fire, Louisville Fire, Magnolia Fire, Nimishillen Twp. Fire, North Lawrence Fire, Uniontown Fire, Washington Twp. Fire and the FDRU. Departments from Portage County included Atwater Twp. Fire, Deerfield Fire, Edinburg Fire, Randolph Twp. Fire, Rootstown Fire, and Suffield Twp. Fire. Mahoning County was represented by the Beloit Fire Department and Columbia County’s North Georgetown Fire Department rounded out the participants. Planning is currently underway for the Fall water shuttle and the group is actively seeking a host department for the exercise. (Special thanks goes out to Steve Clark, Steve Shaffer, Becky Reber, Rob Stearn and James Bixler for information and photos provided for this story.)
James Bixler of the FDRU supplied this great shot of the fill-site.
Louisville's 2000-GPM Ladder discharging water back into the lake.
JAMES BIXLER
ROB STEARNS
- DAVID SCHLOSSER
Marlboro FC Tanker 418 dumps a load at the dump site.
BECKY REBER
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
Spring, 2017
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Spring, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
BUDDY SHOTS
If you have photos you would like to see in our Buddy Shots feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
WINDSOR FD
Brush Fire for Windsor Firefighters ZOAR VFD
Zoar VFD PIO Dave Schlosser and Capt. Mike Richmond (Ret.) of Design Restoration & Reconstruction–DKI stop for a photo during a recent donation presentation, which went towards the department’s “new” pumper.
Windsor, OH - Windsor firefighters responded on April 10th to Noble Road for the report of a brush fire. Automatic aid from Middlefield and Orwell were also dispatched, as well as mutual aid from Montville.
Large-Scale Disaster Drill Held for First Responders in Columbus Columbus, OH - Columbus firefighters and police officers swarmed together at MAPRE Stadium on Tuesday, April 4th for a first responders training JUMP TO FILE# exercise. 040617115 About 500 area residents and students played the roles of the injured in a large-scale disaster drill held simultaneously at John Glenn Columbus Airport, Otterbein University and MAPRE, to test the preparedness of first responders and the area hospital emergency rooms in case of a mass casuality incident in Columbus. About 75 Columbus firefighters and medics took part in the exercise, along with the Columbus Police Department and central Ohio trauma centers. The exercise was coordinated by Central Ohio Trauma Systems. - JAMES MILLER/ COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
Actor Andrea Biernacki (right) has her injury information recorded by Columbus Firefighter Sarah Wagner.
COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
Spring, 2017
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1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
DRILLS/TRAINING
To see your Drills in the newspaper upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
EAST CLEVELAND FIREFIGHTERS IAFF LOCAL 500
Cleveland Firefighters Quickly Knock Structure Fire
Cleveland, OH - At 11:43 P.M. on March 9th, the ECFD B platoon responded to a reported working structure fire at 13901 Strathmore Avenue. Upon arrival, the fire was vented through the third-story roof on the "Charlie" side of the occupied residence. Cleveland Heights Fire also responded and assisted. There were no occupant or firefighter injuries. East Cleveland crews put an aggressive attack on this fire and had it under control in under 30 minutes.
CITY OF SANDUSKY FD
Sandusky, OH - As part of their recent Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) training, a segment the City of Sandusky FD focused on was firefighters being able to self-rescue from a structure. In the event that one or more firefighters become disoriented, lost, and/or trapped during the course of an interior operation inside a structure, in addition to signaling a “Mayday� transmission over the radio, firefighters will make every attempt to conduct a self-rescue while the RIT is being deployed. Pictured is Firefighter/Paramedic Tim Crowell is shown making his way through a diminished clearance of approximately 16x20 inches. This opening is the approximate size firefighters would be required to work with while moving from one interior room to another, once an opening was made in the wall by the firefighter. During the training, firefighters moved through the opening with their Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) on their backs, along with it being removed and pushed through in front of them all the while remaining on breathing air.
CITY OF SANDUSKY FD
Sandusky, OH - City of Sandusky Firefighter/Paramedic Jack Felter working the manual controls on Engine Co. 922 (Reserve) Snozzle during a Pump Operator training session in April.
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
Spring, 2017
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COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
The crowd applauses Columbus Police Officer Tim Dorn (left) and his sister, Columbus Firefighter Dorothy Dorn (center), as they're named named "Columbus Irish Police Officer and Firefighter of the Year".
Columbus Honors Siblings During Irish Proclamation Day Columbus, OH - Columbus Firefighter Dorothy Dorn and her brother, Columbus Police Officer Tim Dorn, were named the "Columbus Irish Police Officer and Firefighter of the Year" during Irish Proclamation Day, held at Columbus City Hall on Friday, March 10th. The Dorn's were joined by their mother, Aggie Dorn Carpenter, along with their brother, Patrick Dorn, who retired from the Columbus Division of Fire in 2012, and a large contingent of extended fam-
JUMP TO FILE #040617118 ily and friends for the Proclamation, which was read to a packed chamber by City Council President Zach Klein and City Councilperson and former City Safety Director, Mitch Brown and Mayor Andrew Ginther. - JAMES MILLER/ COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
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(L to R): Brother of the Dorn's and retired Columbus FF Patrick Dorn, Columbus FF Dorothy Dorn, the Dorn's mother, Aggie Dorn Carpenter, and Columbus Police Officer Tim Dorn.
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Spring, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH
MEMORIES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Memories” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Columbus, OH - In January, Joe O'Brien of Box 15 Fire Rehab Services presented Columbus Assistant Fire Chief David Whiting with a scale replica Sutphen fire engine. The model, made by Fire Replicas, is modeled from the Columbus Division of Fire's Sutphen Monarch Custom Engine 18 that Whiting was assigned to during 1982-1983 as a lieutenant. Box 15 is a 501(C) organization that provides fluids and food to firefighters working large fires in Central Ohio.
COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
Joe O'Brien (left) of Box 15 Fire Rehab Services presents Columbus Assistant Fire Chief David Whiting with a scale replica Sutphen fire engine.
Change Starts with YOU HEALTH & FITNESS
by Robert “Pip” Piparo
If you have read my past 1st Responder News articles, you may notice a trend forming. I’m sure when you see the word 'fitness' though, the trend that is forming doesn’t come to mind. Most folks probably think these articles are about backs and bi’s, and chest and tri’s, or the latest diet and exercise craze that’s sweeping the nation; but they're not. They are about a cultural shift within the fire service. Hopefully by now, I have laid a good enough foundation to have most of you convinced that this change needs to occur, and needs to occur now. Somehow, the fact that for the past 15 years, cardiac related events have been the leading killer of firefighters nationwide, just doesn’t seem to be enough. We still have firefighters who believe that being fit is not part of their job description. But hey, thats the fire service that we all know and love. Change is bad, even if it makes you stronger, faster and healthier; i.e., a firefighter who is better at their job and who will live longer. Now the question is, where do we go from here? The answer my friends, is simple. We work to make ourselves better, which will in turn make the fire service better. I recently spent some time with the Chief of a large department and he explained it to me like this: 'If my people are happy and healthy, then they are going to do a better job for the people we are here to protect. After all, they are the ones we are here for.' So now it’s time to step up and make the change. You have to make this change in your life and you have to commit to it. It won’t be easy and it shouldn’t be easy. After all, if it
was easy, everyone would be doing it! You will have failures, you will have bad days and you will continue going back to the old way. That’s all ok! That’s life. But just like an Alfred told a young Bruce Wayne: Why do we fall?? So we can learn to get back up again. Each week I hear success stories from firefighters who are just like you, unsure if they should start working out, unsure of how to start, or where to go. The first day is always hard and the second day is even harder, but guess what; they should be! See, that's the thing firefighters need to accept about fitness. It always has to be hard, you can always get stronger and faster. You have to put in that hard work to get results. You are required to get results, not just for you, but for them, the people you swore an oath to protect. You also have something unique to our society. You have hundreds and thousands of brothers and sisters who understand, who do our job everyday and know just how hard it is. Fitness brings us all together. We all have something different to bring to the table. We can learn from each other because there is no 'one' way to get “firefighter fit," just like there isn’t 'one' way to put out a residential structure fire. Just like when we put out a fire, there are some tried and true strategies and tactics that will work to get you on a path to being fitter, and over my next few articles, I would like to highlight the ones I feel can provide the most benefit to everyone. I am lucky enough to have a network of friends around the world, who work hard each and every day to stay fit. I am going to draw from them and share their experiences here. Should you have any ideas, questions or suggestions for this column, please feel free to email me at Pip@555fitness.com. After all, this is all about us; us changing the fire service culture towards fitness for the better.
DID Y OU K NOW
COLUMBUS DIVISION OF FIRE
The scale replica next to a photo of the Columbus Division of Fire's original Sutphen Monarch Custom Engine 18.
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“Jake,” a slang term for “Firefighter,” was first used during the early 20th century in the Greater Boston area. Although it’s origins are recognized as “officially unknown,” many agree that the affectionate term was derived from the “J-Key,” a key shaped like the letter ‘J’ that was used to open the fire alarm box. The firefighters who held the J-key to open the fire box began being referred to as “Jakes”.
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Spring, 2017
1ST Responder Newspaper - OH