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FEBRUARY, 2021
ACCIDENTAL FIRE DESTROYS LARGE HOME IN CHATTANOOGA
AMY MAXWELL
Chattanooga, TN - At 9:45 P.M. on January 7th, a homeowner made a frantic 911 call reporting that the garage was on fire. Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department responded to 6711 Gamble Road and arrived on the scene reporting a garage fully involved with fire and traveling quickly throughout the house. - See full story on page 2
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February, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
TENNESSEE
Accidental Fire Destroys Large Home in Chattanooga Chattanooga, TN - At 9:45 P.M. on January 7th, a homeowner made a frantic 911 call reporting that the garage was on fire. Highway 58 Volunteer Fire Department responded to 6711 Gamble Road and arrived on the scene reporting a garage fully involved with JUMP TO FILE# fire and traveling 011221104 quickly throughout the house. Fire officials immediately requested a Mutual Aid response for additional water tankers to the scene due to the closest fire hydrant being two miles away, as well as the homeowner’s driveway being a quarter of a mile up a steep hill. Fire officials worked quickly to get water on the house with the water tankers on the scene. Additional manpower and fire apparatus responded from Bradley Co. Fire Rescue and Tri-Community VFD. Chattanooga Fire Department, East Ridge Fire Department and Mutual Aid Chief Mike Williams stood by at the Highway 59 station for any additional emergency calls. Fire officials reported that the homeowner's teenage son was working on his four-wheeler in the the garage when a spark ignited the fuel from the fourwheeler. It did not take long for the fire to consume the garage. No injuries were reported, but HCEMS was on the scene for any potential injuries to fire personnel. Fire officials report that the cause of the fire appears to be accidental. Damages will be over $750,000. The displaced homeowners will be staying with family members, as the home is considered a total loss.
AMY MAXWELL
Front of the home.
- AMY MAXWELL
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AMY MAXWELL
Firefighters conduct a defensive attack.
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February, 2021
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February, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
TENNESSEE
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Nashville, TN - MNPD, FBI, and ATF are investigating the Christmas morning intentional 6:30 A.M. explosion of an RV outside of 166 2nd Avenue North downtown. Officers re- JUMP TO FILE# sponded to a shots 122620104 fired call on 2nd Avenue at approximately 5:30 A.M. The department’s Hazardous Devices Unit was called to check the RV. As those officers were en route, the vehicle exploded outside of an AT&T transmission building. Multiple buildings on 2nd Avenue were damaged, some extensively. The computerized voice emanating from the white motor home offered a terrifying warning: "This vehicle will explode in 15 minutes." The voice repeated the message, counting down as the minutes passed. As the countdown continued, six police officers who heard those warnings sprang into action, helping residents in downtown Nashville evacuate before the motor home made good on its threat and exploded. Nashville Mayor John Cooper praised the six responding officers, saying they "took swift action and directed people away from danger to save lives, even at the time that their own lives were imperiled." The Metropolitan Nashville
Police Department identified the officers in a news release as: Officer Brenna Hosey, who has been with the department for 4 years; Officer James Luellen, who has been with the department for 3 years; Officer Michael Sipos, who has been with the department for 16
months; Officer Amanda Topping, who has been with the department for 21 months; Officer James Wells, who has been with the department for 21 months; and Sergeant Timothy Miller, who has been with the department for 11 years. The bomb tore through the
neighborhood in the pre-dawn hours, yet only injured three people thanks to the officers' quick work and bravery, officials said. - DAVID BURNS
NFD
Hero Nashville Police Officers.
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February, 2021
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February, 2021
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In memory of those who gave all 1st Responder Newspaper honors and remembers emergency responders lost in the line of duty Georgia: Keith Obrian Williams, 54 Rank: Captain Incident Date: October 17, 2020 Death Date: October 17, 2020 Fire Department: Camilla Fire Department Initial Summary: While on duty, Captain Keith Williams was found unresponsive by fellow firefighters at the Camilla Fire Department early on October 17, 2020. Life-saving efforts began immediately but were not successful. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be determined. Texas: Lemuel Bruce, 44 Rank: Arson Investigator Incident Date: October 16, 2020 Death Date: October 16, 2020 Fire Department: Houston Fire Department Initial Summary: During the early morning hours of Friday, October 16, 2020, Arson Investigator Lemuel Bruce and other members of the Arson Division, Houston Fire Department, tracked down a possible lead to arsons being set in the Houston area. When they arrived at the Timbergrove neighborhood, a suspect fatally shot Arson Investigator Bruce. The suspect was discovered deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Georgia: Harold Boone, 49 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: September 17, 2020 Death Date: November 2, 2020 Fire Department: Monroe County Emergency Services Initial Summary: Firefighter Harold Boone, while onduty at the fire station, contracted COVID-19 from fellow firefighters who had subsequently tested positive for the virus. He passed away from the disease on November 2, 2020. Kansas: Johnny Ivison, Jr., 23 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 8, 2020 Death Date: November 8, 2020 Fire Department: Easton Township Fire Department Initial Summary: On Sunday, November 8, 2020,
Firefighter Johnny Ivison, Jr., was responding to a call of a residential fire in Easton, Kansas, in his privately owned vehicle, a Chevrolet Silverado Truck, when the vehicle went off the road. Firefighter Ivison attempted to correct his path, but overcorrected causing the truck to roll over numerous times, ejecting him from the vehicle. He died from the injuries sustained in the crash. Indiana: Matthew D. Bennett, 49 Rank: Engineer Incident Date: November 13, 2020 Death Date: November 14, 2020 Fire Department: Indianapolis Fire Department Initial Summary: Engineer Matthew Bennett drove Engine 1 to a possible structural collapse after a car drove into a home. Upon his arrival and as crews began to work, Bennett complained to the EMS Duty Officer on scene that he was experiencing chest pains. The EMS Duty Officer escorted Bennett to an ambulance to be evaluated. Bennett was then transported to a hospital and immediately taken into surgery. Despite all efforts, however, Bennett passed away the following afternoon. The nature and cause of fatal injury are still to be determined. California: Sean D. Laffan, 42 Rank: Interim Assistant Fire Chief Incident Date: November 16, 2020 Death Date: November 16, 2020 Fire Department: Oakland Fire Department Initial Summary: Interim Assistant Fire Chief Sean Laffan collapsed in an office of the Oakland Fire Department’s administrative building. Staff on-site began performing life-saving measures until Laffan was taken by ambulance to Summit Medical Center in Oakland. Later that evening, Laffan suffered a prolonged cardiac arrest and, despite all resuscitative efforts, passed away.
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TENNESSEE
WOMEN IN FIREFIGHTING If you have photos you would like to see in our “Women in Firefighting” feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
Anna Leming is originally from Monroe County, Tennessee, and began her fire career at her volunteer department, Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department. She dreamed of becoming a fulltime firefighter and fulfilled her dream in March of 2020 when she was hired by Cookeville Fire Department. She successfully completed 10 weeks at the Tennessee Fire and Codes Academy in Bell Buckle, Tennessee. She is now a state certified Firefighter 1. Since her November graduation, she has passed her Firefighter 2 exam. Leming is also an EMT-B and is currently enrolled in A-EMT school.
February, 2021
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An Italian-American classic with a healthy twist! FORK & HOSE CO. a Food Blog by A.J. Fusco
Walk into any red sauce joint or pizzeria and you are sure to find Chicken Parm on the menu. This classic Italian-American creation, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, has its roots back in Italy where it was first made with eggplant. When Italian immigrants came to America, they brought their recipes but adjusted them to use the now cheaper meats such as veal, pork, beef and chicken. There are many theories as to why it is called Parmigiana, when in fact it is almost always made with mozzarella, but this is not an article long enough to dive into Italian food history. What we do know is what
makes a dish Chicken Parm. Breaded chicken cutlets are pan fried in olive oil until golden brown, covered in tomato sauce and then finished with mozzarella which melts and bubbles until brown in some spots. This is what I grew up eating on many Thursday nights at my grandmother's house, right next to my bowl of ziti and meatballs, another ItalianAmerican invention. I love chicken parm so much, I would often order it the next day when we went out to eat at the local Italian restaurants. In its classic iteration, it is just chicken, sauce and cheese, but many chefs and home cooks have put their own spin on it by turning them into “grilled cheese” or stuffing peppers with them. But for me, the classic approach is the best….but, unfortunately it’s not always the best for your waistline. When I wanted to rethink and reimagine this dish to make it healthier, the first thing that came to mind was the traditional method
of frying the cutlets. In the healthier version, we bake them instead which still allows us to get a crispy exterior without the extra fat and calories. Pre-baking the breadcrumbs also helps us get some color on them before they coat the chicken. And speaking of breadcrumbs, using the Japanese Panko variety also gives us more texture than traditional fine breadcrumbs. And while the traditional method for breading chicken is flour, egg and breadcrumbs, I wanted to change that up as well. So instead of eggs, this recipe uses plain Greek yogurt, which acts as a binder but also lowers the calories slightly and adds some protein. This recipe certainly does not beat the traditional chicken parm you are used to ordering, but if you need a healthier recipe to put into the rotation, this one is definitely worth giving a shot. All the familiar flavors without most of the guilt. Stay safe, eat well!
BAKED CHICKEN CUTLET PARM Serves 4 Ingredients: 4 Boneless/Skinless Chicken Breasts 1 C Flour 1 C Plain Greek Yogurt 2 C Plain Panko Breadcrumbs 1 Tsp. Dried Oregano 28 oz. Whole Peeled Tomatoes, crushed by hand 2 Garlic Cloves, diced ½ Onion, diced ½ lb. Low-Moisture Whole Milk Mozzarella 1 Bunch Fresh Basil, chiffonade (sliced thin) EVOO Salt and Pepper, to taste Procedure: -Preheat oven to 375° AJ FUSCO
PROVIDED
Anna Leming, November 2020 graduate of Tennessee Fire and Codes Academy.
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-Place breadcrumbs on a sheet pan, toast for a few minutes until light golden brown. Remove, place in a bowl. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper and oregano. Set aside. -Slice chicken breast in half, creating two thin cutlets. Repeat with remaining breasts and set aside. In a large bowl place flour, season with salt, pepper and oregano, set aside. In another large bowl, put in yogurt and a pinch of salt, set aside. -Place a wire rack in the sheet pan previously used for
breadcrumbs. -Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess, followed by the yogurt. Wipe off excess yogurt and place in breadcrumb mixture. Firmly press breadcrumbs into cutlet and place on sheet pan with the wire rack. Place chicken in the oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F. -While the chicken bakes, heat EVOO in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion with a pinch of salt and saute until translucent. Add
garlic and sauté until golden brown. Carefully add the crushed tomatoes, bring to a simmer and continue to cook while the chicken bakes. Stir frequently so it does not burn. Taste and adjust seasoning. -When the chicken is cooked, remove from sheet pan along with rack. Ladle some tomato sauce onto bottom of sheet pan, add the chicken and top with more sauce. Top each piece with cheese and place under broiler or back in oven until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh basil.
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February, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
GEORGIA
SHANE SHIFFLETT
Aftermath of a fatal house fire on Clairmont Dr., 1/10/21.
Mother Dies in Warner Robins House Fire; Son Arrested and Charged with Arson PROVIDED
FF/EMT Huot & Chief Howell
BCFES Names “Employee of the Quarter” Bryan County, GA - Firefighter/EMT Lorna Huot has been named the “Employee of the Quarter” for the 4th and final quarter of 2020. FF/EMT Huot is with A-Shift South Battalion Station 1. She was nominated by several BCES members and following are direct quotes from those who nominated her. "FF/EMT Lorna Huot recruit school instructors said she did an outstanding job in class and since coming to the A-shift, she has done an amazing job." "FF/EMT Lorna Huot recently finished her AEMT with passing National Registry." "FF/EMT Lorna Huot exhibits leadership qualities and looks for things to work on without being instructed, while getting others to follow and assist her." "FF/EMT Lorna Huot has
Warner Robins, GA - On January 10th at 1:09 A.M., Warner Robins Fire was alerted to 343 Clairmont Drive for a house on fire. WRFD Engine 3 was first on scene reporting a working fire, making a quick attack. Additional crews began arriving to assist with water supply and fire attack. Once the fire was knocked down,
JUMP TO FILE #012021100
Warner Robins firefighters found a 57-year-old female deceased inside the home. Fire Investigators and Warner Robins Police Investigations and Forensics assisted on scene and their preliminary investigation
suggest the fire was arson. They had a person of interest. A few days after the fire, the deceased resident's 28-year-old son was arrested and charged with Arson - 1st Degree. He lived at the residence with his mother. - SHANE SHIFFLETT
JUMP TO FILE #122320101
APPARATUS IN ACTION taken on the responsibilities of EMS supply room to which she helps BC Hooks keep track of all south end medical units, station EMS supply, and main EMS supply room at HQ." "FF/EMT Lorna Huot displays great work ethic and always tries to leave this place better than how she found it." "FF/EMT Lorna Huot is an outstanding station chef and crews always look forward to when she is going to “throw down” in the kitchen!" "FF/EMT Lorna Huot is a definite asset to BCES and we congratulate her on a JOB WELL DONE!!!!"
If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
- FREDDY HOWELL
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SHANE SHIFFLETT
Houston County R-7 and Engine 21 on scene at a working fire on Williams Drive in Bonaire, GA.
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
GEORGIA
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.
CHRIS DILLEY
The Georgia Forestry Commission operates this 2007 Cessna 182T for aerial wildfire patrols and fire suppression support missions. It was photographed at the Waycross-Ware County Airport.
CHRIS DILLEY
A Georgia Forestry Commission 2017 Thrush 510G Switchback aircraft Single Engine Air Tanker (SEAT) aircraft was photographed operating out of the Waycross-Ware County Airport. This aircraft is equipped with an 800 SHP GE H80 turbine engine, a 500-gallon water/retardant tank and a Max Viz Enhanced Vision System. It is also configured with a dual cockpit and dual flight controls. This aircraft was one of the first two switchback aircraft produced by the Albany, GA based Thrush Aircraft Company, and is capable of being used for fire suppression and agricultural work.
CHRIS DILLEY
A Georgia Forestry Commission Bell 407 helicopter was photographed operating out of the Waycross-Ware County Airport. This aircraft was manufactured in 2000 and is powered by a Allision Model 250 engine, has a max takeoff weight of 6,000 pounds and cruises over 150 mph. This helicopter uses a 200-gallon bambi bucket to assist with wildfire suppression missions.
February, 2021
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February, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
GEORGIA
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.
PROVIDED EUGENE WEBER JR.
This patch belongs to the Hall County Fire Department, located in Hall County, GA.
APPARATUS IN ACTION If you have photos you would like to see in our Apparatus in Action feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
SHANE SHIFFLETT
Perry Fire Engine 1 working at the scene of a motel fire.
Monroe County Health Department Administers Covid-19 Vaccine to 120 Georgia Public Safety Training Center Personnel Monroe County, GA - The Monroe County Health Department, in partnership with Region 5 Office of EMS and Trauma and Georgia Department of Public Health-Emergency Preparedness, administered the first of a two-shot series, to 120 public safety personnel from the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC) on Friday, January 15, 2021. The health department allocated two days, of Georgia’s Vaccine Administration Phase 1A+, specifically for the men and women who are serving to provide essential training for Georgia’s Public Safety Community. Personnel from all divisions of GPSTC, Georgia State Patrol (GSP) and current GSP cadets, Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI), the Attorney General’s Office (AGO), and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) were among those who were vaccinated. “The Georgia Public Safety Training Center sincerely appreciates DPH, Emergency Preparedness, Office of EMS and Trauma and Monroe County Health Depart-
JUMP TO FILE #011821105
ment for their role in coordinating efforts with GPSTC to provide personnel the opportunity to be vaccinated in just one day,” stated Chris Wigginton, Executive Director of GPSTC. The Department of Public Health (DPH) continues to focus their efforts towards the completion of Phase 1A+ of the Georgia Vaccine Administration Matrix and move into Phase 1B. At the close of business on January 14, 2021, 329,506 vaccines had been administered to Georgia residents. Phase 1B of the vaccination matrix will include: essential workers (nonhealthcare) who perform job tasks across critical infrastructure sectors, ensuring continuity of functions critical to public health, safety, economic and national security. According to DPH, the vaccine supply is still very limited and public health departments are scheduling vaccines by appointment only, as are most other providers. De-
pending on vaccine supply allocations from the federal government, it may be weeks before additional providers will have vaccines available for quicker and more widespread distribution. The personnel from GPSTC receiving the vaccinations are the public safety instructors that are continuing to provide essential public safety training through the pandemic. Executive Director Wigginton added, “We continue to monitor our operational procedures to ensure we are complying with all recommendations of the CDC, Georgia Department of Public Health, and the guidance of both the Governor’s Office and Georgia POST Council. Many of our non-essential personnel are still teleworking at this time.” GPSTC remains concerned about the health and safety of staff, customers, and students and continue to take all appropriate precautions to safely provide critical, essential training to Georgia’s public safety personnel. - GPSTC
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February, 2021
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FLORIDA
CIRONE PHOTOS
West Manatee Fire & Rescue Battle Yacht Fire Cortez, FL - Shortly after 3:00 P.M. on Monday, January 19th, Manatee County Dispatch received a call of a boat fire at Cortez Cove Marina, located in Cortez Village, the oldest fishing village in Florida. While units were en route it was evident that they had a working fire, as thick black smoke could be seen from miles away. On arrival units found a 72-ft. Princess Yacht in dry dock fully involved, and surrounded by other boats. Luckily, the wind was calm and firefighters made an aggressive attack, however the Yacht was a total loss. There were no reported injuries.
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.
SHANNON BALL
This patch belongs to Port Orange Fire Rescue, located in Volusia County, FL.
PASCO COUNTY FIRE RESCUE
Pasco County Firefighters Assist in the Rescue of a Bald Eagle Pasco County, FL - Pasco County Fire Rescue Station 21 heard a knock on the station door around 4:00 P.M. on the afternoon of January 7th. When Driver Engineer Jerry Brown opened the door, he JUMP TO FILE# was greeted by two 011121118 kids holding an injured bald eagle. The Eagle was tired, and its beak was wrapped in fishing line. After closer examination, Firefighters realized that the Eagle was underweight, a fishing hook was through his beak, and a fishing line was wrapped around his wing. The line was preventing the Eagle from eating and flying. The crew called for assistance from the Owl's Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife in Odessa. Dianne, a volunteer from Owl's Nest Sanctuary, hopped in her car and headed to station 21 to assist. It appears that the Eagle was wrapped in the line for about two days, was underweight, and dehydrated. The team loaded it into a crate, and Dianne transported the Eagle to the Owl's Nest Sanctuary for treatment. Owl's Nest Director Kris removed the hook and examined the Eagle. After the Eagle is deemed stable, it will be transported to Busch Gardens for further treatment. Thankfully, the Eagle appears in good health, and veterinarians believe that it will fully recover.
PASCO COUNTY FIRE RESCUE
After the Eagle is cleared from Busch Gardens, it will be released back in the area of Station 21. A big thank you to everyone who helped save this Bald Eagle's
life! We are #PascoProud and thankful for this happy outcome! - COREY DIERDORFF
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February, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
FLORIDA
FF JIM ROBERTS / MOUNT PLEASANT VFD
Pile Burns Cause Brush Fire in Quincy Quincy, FL - On December 28, 2020 at 4:45 P.M., Mount Pleasant Firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire in the 400 block of Fulton Shaw Road in the Robertsville/St. Johns Community north of Quincy. This was a joint response with Robertsville VFD and the City of Quincy FD. Upon arrival of the first due departments, personnel found an estimated nine-acre grass fire that started from two pile burns that escaped and a request went out for brush apparatus. Quincy and Robertsville Firefighters were able to contain the fire. Mount Pleasant Firefighters responded with a brush truck and a rescue truck (Type 6 Engine on loan from the Florida Forest Service) and were assigned to work the perimeter with the brush and rescue trucks to assess for extension into the tree line and mop up any hot spots.
PASCO COUNTY FIRE RESCUE
Illegal Grilling on Apartment Balcony in Odessa Causes Two-Alarm Fire Odessa, FL - On Saturday, December 26, 2020, Pasco County Fire Rescue responded to the Tuscano at Suncoast Apartment Complex for a reported fire. When firefighters arrived, they reported a three-story apartment complex with heavy fire and smoke coming from the second and third floors. The incident called for a secondalarm due to the fire load and the number of evacuations needed. Command set up three divisions and started the evacuations
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of over 100 residents from 48 apartments. Thankfully, the residential sprinkler and alarm system activated, alerting residents to the fire. The system assisted Firefighters in knocking down the fire. Hard work from Firefighters on the scene kept the fire from quickly spreading. In all, five apartments suffered fire and
smoke damage. It took about 30 minutes to knock the fire down, and there were no injuries reported. Pasco County Fire Rescue Investigators determined the cause of the fire to be from illegal grilling on a second-floor apartment's balcony. That fire extended to the third floor and into the roof of the apartment building. - COREY DIERDORFF
IN SERVICE If you have photos you would like to see in our In Service feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
CIRONE PHOTOS
MVC with Double Medevac in Cedar Hammock Cedar Hammock, FL - As the sun began to set at the end of Cortez Road on January 10th, Cedar Hammock Fire & Rescue District was called to a MVC with one vehicle on its side, and the other vehicle heavily damaged. One person in the Subaru on its side was trapped while a family in the other vehicle had two pediatric traumas. Both were flown to John Hopkins All Children's Hospital in St. Petersburg. The accident is under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol. FRANK ROBINSON
Martin County Fire Rescue operates this 2015 E-One Typhoon 1500/750/30/20 Foam.
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
February, 2021
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February, 2021
1ST Responder Newspaper - SE
FLORIDA
Anxiety Chaplain's Corner Didymus McHugh
Many of us do not think about what it is like to be anxious, but others can be frozen by anxiety. Some people cannot look at paper from a particular person because it makes them anxious, or cannot go through a certain intersection or part of town. There are some people who cannot bare to throw certain things out because of the anxiety and emotional attachment that they have assigned to an inanimate object. We may think of people who look like hoarders and we want to
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tell them to just throw it out. What we need to do is to come alongside them and see what the anxiety may be attached to and why. Many times we can work on small steps and keep the person's anxiety in check. The truth is that many people may face anxiety in their own way. I have seen others, that when they are anxious, are basically frozen. They cannot move forward, they are just there. I have seen this with people who may be afraid of heights, or some people that may be afraid of fire or blood. Some people may want to just say "suck it up, buttercup", but that is not the right solution. How would the people saying it feel, if it was they who became frozen? Many times, if we take the time to talk with the people, we can help them through their block. True, that some people may need longer time to overcome their anxiety and they may need some professional assistance. Did you ever get anxious about a test? Interview? Freeze on a high dive? What is it that may make you anxious? How about the holidays or birthdays, when you have to see those relatives? You may try backing out of it by saying that you have other plans, just to get out of it. The Bible says to be anxious for nothing and in Matthew chapter 6, it states 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. These are definitely wise words and directions but it is our humanity that once it gets into the mix, that we do worry or become anxious. Please have time and understanding for the person that you may work with in a disaster, whatever the person identifies as a disaster. Some people are accustomed to working with disasters all the time, but once it is effecting them personally that they truly understand and may become more compassionate to the client. We can learn so much just by listening to the people that we meet. As a good friend of mine said, "God gave us two ears and one mouth. Maybe we need to listen twice the amount of time that we speak, after all, I think He knows what He is doing." Stay safe and listen to people. It will surprise you once you listen to other people's stories. Didymus McHugh didymus-mchugh.com
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.
CHRIS DILLEY
On January 6th, soldiers from C. Co 1-111th Aviation Regiment, Florida Army National Guard conducted recurrency training on bambi bucket operations with a UH-60M Blackhawk. This training was performed at Lake Fretwell, located at Cecil Airport. The 420-gallon bambi bucket allows helicopters to dip from water sources and to then deliver water where it’s needed for aerial firefighting operations.
PASCO COUNTY FIRE RESCUE
House Fire Displaces Moon Lake Residents Moon Lake, FL - On January 9th, PCFR Firefighters from Battalion 1 and Battalion 2 responded to the 9200 block of Lake Drive in Moon Lake for a reported residential structure fire. When firefighters arrived, they reported a double-wide mobile home, a car, and a fence on fire. Firefighters started their initial fire attack and confirmed that everyone was out of the house. Firefighters were able to knock the fire down in approximately 20 minutes. A Tanker Task Force was requested due to the lack of fire hydrants in the area. Command on the scene called for our partners at the American Red Cross to assist with clothing and housing for the displaced residents. In all, two adults, two children, and two dogs required assistance. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
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FLORIDA
ST. AUGUSTINE FIRE DEPARTMENT
MICHAEL KANE, BATTALION CHIEF/PIO
Driver Engineer Gabriel Castillo receives his brass by Fire Chief Gregory Holness.
BSFR Promotes 17 Fort Lauderdale, FL - On January 12th and 13th 2021, the Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services promoted 17 personnel to various ranks as the agency continues to grow in size while remaining to combat attrition of retiring employees. Fire Chief Gregory Holness awarded each individual their new brass ensemble and provided each with a personalized inspirational speech. Of the 17, three noteworthy promotions included Driver Engineer Garth Bonner and Driver Engineer Gabriel Castillo, each promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Both employees were part of a recent merger with the City of Hallandale Beach which was completed on January 4th, 2020. They are the first former Hallandale Beach employees to be promoted since the completion of the merger. The third noteworthy promotion is that of Driver Engineer Michael Korte, promoted to the rank of Lieutenant. Michael has served BSFR is many capacities. At 14 years of age, Michael was a member of the very first BSFR Explorer class in 2000. Then as a professional firefighter, Michael became a fire inspector before being promoted to Driver Engineer in 2000. Michael’s inspiration came from his father, Battalion Chief Richard Korte who was an active duty member of the agency until his passing in 1999. Promoted personnel include: -Captain Bruce Young promoted to the rank of Battalion Chief -Lieutenant Jose Perez promoted to the rank of Captain
Working Residential Structure Fire in St. Augustine St. Augustine, FL - Crews from the St. Augustine Fire Department and St. Johns County Fire Rescue responded to a residential fire early on the morning of December 9th, 2020. Crews were on scene within six minutes and found heavy fire conditions upon arrival. Crews made an aggressive interior fire attack while also performing searches. Primary and secondary searches were both negative. All occupants were out of the home and evaluated, but no injuries were reported. Pictured is E-42 stretching the initial attack line.
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-Driver Engineer Gabriel Castillo promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Driver Engineer John Muilman promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Firefighter Carlos Berreras promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Firefighter Robert Johnson III promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Driver Engineer Raymond Aguillera promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Driver Engineer Ryan O’ Malley promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Driver Engineer Michael Korte promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Driver Engineer Daniel Snyder promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Driver Engineer Carlos De La O promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Driver Engineer Garth Bonner promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Firefighter Randy Chidester promoted to the rank of Lieutenant -Firefighter Kelli Owens promoted to the rank of Driver Engineer -Firefighter Jonathan Adams promoted to the rank of Driver Engineer -Firefighter Justin Hunter promoted to the rank of Driver Engineer -Firefighter Danny Joseph promoted to the rank of Driver Engineer - MICHAEL KANE
Bob Long
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FLORIDA
St. Petersburg Fire Rescue Receives Award of Excellence St. Petersburg, FL - We are proud to announce that the Florida Fire Chief’s Association has awarded St. Petersburg Fire Rescue with the Safety, Health and Wellness Award of Excellence! This award is presented to an individual, department, or agency within the state of Florida who has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to Safety, Health and Wellness within the fire, rescue, and/or EMS service through Firefighter Safety, Cancer Prevention, Health & Fitness, and Mental Wellness. This is an amazing accomplishment
Vehicle News The Melrose Fire Department recently placed into service a 1998 Pierce Saber as Engine 242. This engine was donated by Plant City Fire Rescue, where it formerly served as Engine 3. This engine has a 1500-GPM Waterous pump, a 750-gallon water tank, three mid ship pre-connected attack lines and a Night Scan light tower. Before being placed into service the overhead light bar was replaced with an LED style light bar and additional led scene lights were installed, along with updated graphics and reflective chevrons added to the rear.
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and certainly confirms the department’s commitment to safety and wellness! Congratulations to each member of St. Petersburg Fire Rescue for your crucial role in achieving this award, and for your continued commitment to serve the community and each other! - LT. STEVEN LAWRENCE
FUTURE 1st RESPONDERS If you have photos you would like to see in our “Future First Responders” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com.
CHRIS DILLEY
Plant City Fire Rescue handing over the title.
FF JIM ROBERTS / MOUNT PLEASANT VFD
On Christmas Day, Mount Pleasant Firefighter Jim Roberts (PaPa) had the pleasure of taking his grandson, Noah, who was visiting from Central Florida, to the Mount Pleasant Fire Station for a tour and a first time ride in an actual fire engine, instead of playing with the other cool fire department toys that PaPa gives him.
CHRIS DILLEY
Engine 242 using the Night Scan Light Tower.
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FLORIDA
FF JIM ROBERTS / MOUNT PLEASANT VFD
Overturned vehicle well off the roadway.
Serious Crash with Injuries in Quincy Quincy, FL - On January 1st at 12:23 P.M., Mount Pleasant Firefighters were dispatched to a motor vehicle crash reported as a single-vehicle rollover on Glory Road, just South of Shade Farm Road. While en route the Mount Pleasant Rescue requested that Greensboro Fire Rescue respond with an Engine based on the report for an overturned vehicle. Upon arrival personnel found a single vehicle with extreme
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damage in a field well off of the roadway. Once Command was established, the scene was assessed and personnel found that a single occupant of the vehicle was out with the Gadsden County Sheriff's Office. The occupant was assessed by Gadsden EMS and transported to the hospital for treatment. A
check of the vehicle was conducted once access was made and found that there were no other occupants. Personnel remained to provide scene safety until the vehicle was loaded on the wrecker. The cause of the crash is still under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol. - JAMES ROBERTS III
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Vehicle Crashes Into Holiday Home Holiday, FL - On the morning of January 12th, Pasco County Fire Rescue Firefighters from Station 19 and Station 12 responded to the 4300 block of Tahitian Gardens Circle in Holiday for a reported vehicle into a home. When firefighters arrived, they reported a car into a home with heavy damage. Firefighters called for the building department to respond to the scene to check for structural stability of the house, while Paramedics checked the driver of the car for injuries. Thankfully, there were no injuries and the driver of the vehicle has been identified as the homeowner. The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash.
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February, 2021
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Young Heroes ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky
Young Heroes By Paul Hashagen Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 01749-1330 1-800-522-8528 E-mail: support@fire-policeems.com www.fire.police.ems.com Price: $17.95 This is a soft cover book measuring 6" X 9" with 178 pages. It has five stories of fires in New York City in the horse-drawn days. These were real fires. The author was a firefighter in New York City having retired after 25 years of service, most of it being assigned to Rescue Company 1 in Manhattan. He has written several fantastic books, including the History of Rescue 1. All of his books are extremely interesting including this one. The chapters are named for young civilians who
were not themselves firefighters, but played vital roles in the fighting of these fires. Read the book to see how. Much of the stories detail super heroic efforts by the firefighters, who in comparison to today, worked with very limited resources when it came to technology alone. Daring rescues utilizing wooden aerial ladders and scaling ladders make for unbelievable accounts of heroism at its best. Most of the aerial ladders were 75-feet and the rescues to be made were from higher levels. Firefighters worked long hours with little time off. They also had to transmit calls for help by tapping a code on the street fire pull boxes. There were no masks or thermal imaging cameras to enhance operations. There were two points I learned about during the review of the book. One was the purpose of spiral staircases in the stations, and the second was the origin of the sliding pole. The last fire was of the Equitable Building in 1912, which is probably the longest of the stories and latest in the group. There is also much information to be gained by the reader after going over the author’s notes and acknowledgements. It is another one of Paul’s fantastic books and one I recommend.
FLORIDA
SASHA STATON
Daytona Beach FD Donates Early Christmas Present to Citizen in Need Daytona Beach, FL - A Daytona Beach citizen received an early Christmas gift this year when the Daytona Beach Fire Department was able to provide a much needed donation. A local senior, who is currently enrolled in Daytona Beach Fire Department’s Community Paramedicine Program, has been maneuvering around town with a manual wheelchair for over five years due to an amputated leg. While he has been making due with his circumstances, this was causing additional medical issues. Travis Anderson, the department’s Community Paramedicine Officer, was able to provide this individual with a mobility scooter from an anonymous donor on behalf of the fire department.
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FLORIDA
WORKING FACES If you have photos you would like to see in our “Working Faces” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Lindsey@1stResponderNews.com
CIRONE PHOTOS
Long time Manatee County Fire Academy Instructor, Jason Guthrie, who is also a Captain for Parrish Fire District.
February, 2021
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ALABAMA
Enjoy taking photographs? Get the most out of your hobby! 1st Responder News compensates correspondents for their article & photograph submissions. PROVIDED
Oneonta Fire Promotes Captain Oneonta, AL - Oneonta Fire is pleased to announce the promotion of Scott Payne to the position of Captain. Captain Payne began his service with Oneonta in 1993 as a Part-Time Recruit Firefighter. He has progressed through the firefighter ranks, most recently serving as Lieutenant of B shift. He has made many contributions to the Fire Department along the way. Captain Payne holds numerous certifications and serves the department in many aspects. Please join us in congratulating Captain Payne on his recent promotion.
Contact Lindsey TODAY for more information! Lindsey@1strespondernews.com
845-534-7500 ext. 212
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February, 2021
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February, 2021
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