1st Responder Southeast February Edition by Belsito Communications Inc.

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FEBRUARY, 2015

FATAL HOUSE FIRE

CHARLIE ROBBINS

FL - LAFD “C” shift apparatus were en route to a possible commercial building fire on Sunniland Boulevard at 3:00 p.m. on January 7, 2015, when calls started coming into Lee Control for a possible house fire at 1101 Westminster Street West. - See full story on pages 44

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February, 2015

GEORGIA

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CORPORATE INFORMATION 1st Responder News (ISSN 1525-1683) - Vol. 16 No. 2 - South East edition is published monthly, 12 times a year for $36 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 St., 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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PUBLICATION CONTENT Notice: The advertisements, articles, and letters contained in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. Advertisements are sold pursuant to the "space available" and corresponding fee schedule. The mere fact that advertisements are contained in this publication does not express nor imply that 1st Responder Inc. and Belsito Communications, Inc. vouches for the credibility of the claims made in the advertisements or the representations expressed or implied in them.

Cherokee County, GA. Tim Cavender, Public Information Ofﬁcer for Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services, was notiﬁed recently that he will be inducted into the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame in April of next year. The International Santa Claus UMP TO FILE# Hall of Fame is the J010615107 home of the celebration and study of famous Santa Clauses and Mrs. Clauses of the past and present. This ongoing project preserves the historical documentation of the many men and women, who have greatly contributed to the Legend of Santa Claus. The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame is dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Myra, the fourth century bishop known for his great deeds of generosity. He is the basis for the Santa Claus legend. Cavender, a Santa Claus portrayer for over 40 years, is one of six in the world who will be inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015. The induction ceremony will be held at the Charles W. Howard Legendary Santa Claus Conference in Albion, New York, in April. Howard established the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School, which today is the oldest continuously-run Santa school in the world. He was also the Santa Claus for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City from 1948 until 1965. Cavender and his wife, Pam (Mrs. Claus), have appeared at the Georgia Governor’s mansion for the past six years during the lighting of the mansion’s Christmas tree. According to Joy Forth, Executive Director of the Georgia Governor’s mansion, “He (Tim) brings so much joy and delight to the thousands of children and their families. Tim looks just like the traditional Santa Claus and is so perfect to take photographs with the visitors to the Governor’s Mansion.” Tim and Pam have used their Christmas personalities to assist many charities including Toys for Tots, the American Cancer Society’s Love Lights a Tree and WXIA’s (channel 11) annual Can-A Thon. They have also donated their time to visit patients at the Grady Hospital Burn Center. One of the highlights of Tim’s career occurred in 2009. He and Mrs. Claus were able to make a little girl’s special Christmas wish come true. While visiting Santa in Ball Ground, she asked Santa to bring daddy, who was a soldier, home from Afghanistan. A few days later, Santa and Mrs. Claus delivered the dad to his little girl. The story was later picked up by CNN and was called “the story of the day.” Another inductee that has ties

TIM CAVENDER

Santa and Mrs. Claus helping with the Channel 11 Can-A-Thon!

to a Georgia company is Haddon Sundbloom. Sundbloom is best remembered for his advertising work, specifically the Santa Claus advertisements he painted for The CocaCola Company in the 1930s. His Santa Claus paintings firmly established the larger-than-life, grandfatherly Claus as a key figure in American Christmas imagery. The images are so popular they are still used by Coca-Cola to this day. Sundbloom, who passed in 1976, is often credited for having created the modern image of Santa Claus. The initial selection process for the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame was developed by a legal firm in Des Moines, Iowa. Profiles of past and current Santas were given to a panel of columnists from news

media outlets across the North American continent. The Santa proﬁles included an overview of the Santa’s career and supporting documentation; no names, dates, country of origin or internet presence was included and no distinction between large cities or small villages was made. The candidates were held to a criteria including, over all career, service to their community or company, range of appearances, contribution to the Santa world, length of service, uniqueness of career, originality, and charity. Some of the previous inductees to the Hall of Fame include Edmund Gwenn, who portrayed Santa in the 1947 motion picture called Miracle on 34th Street, Mickey Rooney,

who was the voice of Santa in the 1970 stop motion production of Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town, Charles W. Howard, who established the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School which today is the oldest continuously-run Santa school in the world. He was also the Santa for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from 1948-1965 and James Edgar, who was the ﬁrst department store Santa Claus. Tim’s wife, Pam, submitted the nomination for his induction into the Hall of Fame. The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame exhibit is located inside the historic Santa’s Candy Castle in Santa Claus, Indiana. - TIM CAVENDER

TIFFANY GREESON

Santa reads a story with a child.

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February, 2015

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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 New Jersey: Christopher Hunter, 38 Rank: Lieutenant Incident Date: November 14, 2014 Death Date: November 15, 2014 Fire Department: Cinnaminson Fire Department Initial Summary: Lieutenant Hunter responded to his last alarm at 3:05 a.m. on November 14. At 1:52 a.m. the next day, Lieutenant Hunter suffered a cardiac arrest at home. He was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Pennsylvania: Samir “Sam” P. Ashmar, 51 Rank: Fire Marshal Incident Date: November 20, 2014 Death Date: November 20, 2014 Fire Department: Upper Macungie Township Station 56 Initial Summary: Several hours after responding to a medical call, Fire Marshal Ashmar was found in cardiac arrest at his residence. Ashmar was treated and transported by fellow responders to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, where he succumbed to his injury.

New York: Richard Weisse, Sr., 59 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 15, 2014 Death Date: November 15, 2014 Fire Department: St. James Initial Summary: A short time after responding to a school fire alarm, Firefighter Weisse suffered a medical emergency and passed away. The nature and cause of death are pending further investigation.

New Jersey: Arthur E. “Art” Treon, 62 Rank: County Fire Coordinator/Deputy OEM Coordinator Incident Date: November 18, 2014 Death Date: November 19, 2014 Fire Department: Cape May County Office of Emergency Management Initial Summary: County Fire Coordinator Treon responded to a working multi-family dwelling fire. While operating as fire coordinator, Treon began experiencing chest pains and difficulty breathing and was transported by EMS to Cape Region Medical Center for a suspected heart attack. Fire Coordinator Treon was admitted for possible pneumonia, but subsequently passed away at approximately 10:30 p.m. on November 19th from a nature and cause of injury still to be reported.

Texas: Alejandro Castro, 40 Rank: Pump Operator/Paramedic Incident Date: November 16, 2014 Death Date: November 16, 2014 Fire Department: Brownsville Fire Department Initial Summary: Pump Operator/Paramedic Castro was found unresponsive while on-duty inside of Brownsville Fire Station 8. Castro had succumbed in the fire station to a nature and cause of fatal injury still to be determined. New York: James Foote, 57 Rank: Firefighter Incident Date: November 18, 2014 Death Date: November 18, 2014 Fire Department: Summit Fire Department Initial Summary: Upon returning inside the station to get warm after cutting down two trees on the fire department grounds, Firefighter Foote fell ill and collapsed. Medical assistance was provided by fellow responders and Foote was transported to Cobleskill Hospital, where he later passed away of a heart attack.

Ohio: Tom Rhamey, 71 Rank: Firefighter/EMT Incident Date: November 28, 2014 Death Date: November 28, 2014 Fire Department: Western Holmes County Fire and EMS–Lakeville Station Initial Summary: Firefighter-EMT Rhamey fell ill while working at the scene of a residential structure fire. Rhamey was treated and transported by Western Holmes County EMS to Wooster Community Hospital and subsequently flown to Akron City Hospital, where he remained in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit until his passing.

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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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com

SHANE SHIFFLETT DONNA ALLEN

Southside Fire Engine 3 covering station 12's area

BCES promotional ofﬁcers with Chief Howell holding cake

BCES holds annual ceremonies Firefighters, family members and their friends filled the Bryan County Emergency Services fire station 7 on Monday, December 22nd for its annual promotional ceremony, badge pinning and firefighter of the year award presentation. Bryan County Chief Freddy Howell opened the ceremony with an invocation and then addressed the attendees and new officers. Chief Howell described the process to get promoted as a long and draining one with several weeks of intense study, a written and practical test and finishing with an oral interview. A lot of hard work and dedication, along with the support of family and friends, go into the process and it is certainly appropriate to recognize and celebrate all involved! Each officer was called up with his or her family member.

JUMP TO FILE #122214137

Chief Howell presented the officer with a badge and the officer’s family member had the privilege of pinning the badge on. One firefighter was promoted to lieutenant, two firefighters were promoted to captain/training officer (one for north and one for south) and one promoted to battalion chief. The new officers are Battalion Chief-Rod Kirkland Captain/Training Officer (South)- Jason Blalock Captain/Training Officer (North)Mark Waters Lieutenant-John Middleton After the badge pinning ceremony Chief Howell presented the “Firefighter of the Year” plaque to Firefighter/Paramedic Danny Dixon.

Dixon was nominated and chosen as the first “Firefighter of the Quarter” in 2014 and then chosen as the “Firefighter of the Year” by his coworkers from the quarterly award recipients. Everyone then enjoyed fellowship, breakfast and refreshments provided by Firefighter/EMT, Donna Allen and a cake made by Battalion Chief Schultz’s wife, Tara. As BCES continues to build a quality team of emergency services professionals, this is its second formal badge pinning ceremony, a long-standing tradition in the fire service, and one which Chief Howell plans to continue as an annual tradition. BCES is proud to promote all of these individuals and would like to thank them for their dedicated service, and thank their families for their unwavering support.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Cobb County Truck 19 operating on a multi alarm fatal fire.

- FREDDY HOWELL

New Year’s Training already off track? “Check Yourself” FIREFIGHTER FITNESS Lori Ann Hodgkinson

2015 has arrived and with it another fabulous opportunity to get your ﬁtness program headed in the right direction. Only four weeks into the New Year and many of the best intentions may have already gone by the wayside. Does that sound about right to you? Here are a few possible reasons why. See yourself? If so make the necessary adjustments now before things get out of hand. Bored?? Change any and/or all of the following: Location, venue (type of equipment i.e. free weight, machine, elastic band, medicine ball, treadmill, stepper etc.), order of exercise, format (straight sets, super sets, circuit, high intensity

training). Change the music you are using or add some if you are not. Find a buddy and workout together. Remember, change is good–not something to be afraid of. Not enough time? Implement shorter more frequent workouts if you seem to be running out of hours in a day. Increase the intensity or duration of your workouts on the days you are able to train if you seem to be running out of days of the week. Overwhelmed? Workouts too intense? Too long? Too frequent? Come on guys/gals, you know this one! Taking on too much too soon can not only lead to burnout but injuries as well. Adjust the frequency, intensity and duration to better match your fitness level and keep on going. Injured? Uh oh, that’s not good. Depending on the injury it may still be possible to train safely and effectively. Consult your physician and fitness professional for appropriate modifications. Still, be smart enough to recognize that it may be necessary

to take some time off until you are healthy enough to begin again. Not seeing results? Really? It’s only been four weeks. On average it will take 6-8 weeks for your body to show significant physiological changes. Hang in there and keep doing all the right things. Eventually, all your hard work should payoff. If not, re-evaluate your fitness goals, your fitness level and training program then adjust accordingly. The New Year is still young. If your training has already taken a few detours or has come to a stop, perform a self-check using the aforementioned scenarios and see where you fall. Make the adjustments and get back on track as soon as possible. This year and always–begin and continue! Remember to have your physician’s approval before beginning any exercise program. Once again – Happy New Year. Please Stay Safe.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Savannah firefighters run for the 343 Greensboro firefighters spent September 13th running the Tunnel to Towers 5K held in Savannah. Firefighters from all over the state showed their support. The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Run is a 5k run/walk that honors Stephen Siller, a 34 year old firefighter who ran with his gear through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the World Trade Center to help save lives on September 11, 2001.

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February, 2015

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GEORGIA

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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

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Dee Kennedy Rd ﬁre

Atlanta Fire Department's Engine 12

Two fires on New Year’s Day

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At 12:25 p.m. on Thursday, January 1st, communication officers received a 911 call reporting a structure fire in the 1600 block of Dee Kennedy Road. "The callers reported that a shop next to a home was on fire," commented Lieutenant Scott Dakin. "Communication officers dispatched firefighters to the incident." Engine 4, Engine 5, Ladder Truck 7, Med 4, Med 5 and Battalion 1 responded to this incident. Upon arrival of firefighters, they found a large outbuilding with heavy fire showing from the structure. Fire was also through the roof of the structure. Due to the amount of fire upon arrival, it was decided to conduct a defensive attack. Ladder Truck 7

JUMP TO FILE #010215126

was utilized to apply water through the roof of the structure to extinguish the majority of the flames and crews utilized hoses to put the remainder of the fire out. The outbuilding and contents were destroyed. The cause of this fire is under investigation by the Fire Investigation Team. Also on Thursday just before 7:30 p.m., communication officers received a 911 call reporting a structure fire in the 1300 block of Phillipsburg Drive. The caller reported fire in the chimney of the home. Engine 1, Engine 3, Med 1 and Battalion 1 were dispatched to

this incident. Upon arrival of firefighters smoke was found in the home coming from the fireplace. Upon further investigation it was found that the wall around the fire place had ignited. Crews worked to take the wall apart and extinguish the fire. "We want to remind citizens to have their chimneys cleaned and inspected," stated Lieutenant Dakin. "We also want to remind citizens that some fireplaces are not designed to have large hot fires in them. This can lead to the heat extending from around the fireplace and into the walls around them." - SCOTT DAKIN

DEPARTMENT PROFILE If your department has photos you would like to see in our “Departmnt Proﬁle” feature, please upload them on our website, www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Rollover on Hwy 129 Talmo, GA. Rescue 42 crews worked a single vehicle rollover with injuries on Pond Fork Church Rd at Hwy 129. SHANE SHIFFLETT

Cobb County Fire Station 19

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February, 2015

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GEORGIA

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Cobb Fire works Interstate 575 crash Kennesaw, GA. Cobb County Fire Station 16 and Metro Atlanta EMS were dispatched to Interstate 575 northbound just north of Bells Ferry Road for a multiple vehicle accident with injuries. Engine 16 arrived and confirmed dispatch of several vehicles involved with one under a pick-up truck that crossed the median and went the wrongway. Crews immediately began patent assessment and deployed tools. Cobb County Police assisted directing and investigating the crash site.

FF/EMT DONNA BATH

Flames showing on arrivial

BCES and Pembroke respond to structure fire North Bryan Emergency Services along with automatic aid units from the City of Pembroke Fire Department responded to a reported fire in a residence at 101 Power Circle Rd. EMS 5 relayed a size up to incoming units of a fully involved single wide trailer with several small propane cylinders near the fire. Engine 51 arrived. Captain Waters established command relaying to incoming units a size up of a single story single wide trailer

JUMP TO FILE #010915102

fully involved with one outbuilding exposure threatened. It was verified that all residents had escaped from the home unscathed and a water supply was established via water shuttle. Crews began a defensive attack on the structure rapidly bringing the fire under control. The structure was a total loss; crews

conducted a thorough overhaul to ensure all hidden fire in what remained of the structure was extinguished. All equipment and personnel were recovered and returned to service. The displaced residents went to stay with family out of town. It is unknown what started the blaze. Residents reported hearing a loud pop prior to fleeing the fire. - FREDDY HOWELL

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Ft. Stewart Engine 5 and Chief 5 on scene of a small ďŹ re.

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February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

GEORGIA

FUTURE FIRST 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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Cobb Fire battles fire in Acworth Get your personal copy of

The SE Edition Name:______________________ Telephone:___________________

Acworth, GA. On November 17th, a very cold Georgia night, Cobb County Fire & Emergency Communications Center began receiving multiple calls of a house on fire at 1823 Hickory Creek Ct NW. Engine 26 arrived first on scene and advised of a two story residential structure with flames showing from the second floor. Crews immediately began pulling lines and making entry to battle the intense fire. Additional apparatus began arriving and established a water sup-

JUMP TO FILE #122214135

ply to assist. The ﬁre was knocked down quickly and contained. The structure sustained moderate damage due to the quick actions of Cobb County Fire. The house was saved. The ﬁre is currently under investigation. - SHANE SHIFFLETT

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Ft. Stewart,GA. A local elementary student and his friend pretend their rolling to a ﬁre on base.

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Early morning fire on New Year’s Day Just after 6:30 a.m. on January 1st, communication officers with Barrow County Emergency Services received a 911 call reporting a structure fire in the 1600 block of Doc Mclocklin Road in JUMP TO FILE# Statham. 010215105 "The 911 caller stated that there was heavy fire in five rooms of the house," stated Lieutenant Scott Dakin. "Communication officers advised the residents to immediately leave the structure and dispatched firefighters to the incident." Engine 1, Engine 3, Engine 6, Med 1 and Battalion 1 were dispatched to this incident. Upon arrival of firefighters, they found heavy smoke showing from a two story residential structure. Firefighters made an initial aggressive interior attack, but due to fire conditions found in the home, it was decided to do a rapid knock down of the fire from outside the structure first. Firefighters worked hard to bring the fire under control as

SCOTT DAKIN

quickly as possible. However, due to conditions found upon arrival, the house suffered major fire and smoke damage throughout. Firefighters remained on scene for several

hours performing salvage and overhaul operations. A family of four adults and two children were displaced as a result of this fire. The American Red Cross responded to assist the

family. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Fire Investigation Team. - SCOTT DAKIN

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

GEORGIA

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Engine 11 Cobb works fully involved dumpster Acworth, GA. Just after 11:00 p.m. on December 8th, Cobb County Fire Station 11 was alerted to the rear of LaBamba Mexican Restaurant at 3509 Baker Road for a dumpster on fire. Engine 11 arrived and confirmed dispatch of a fully involved dumpster. Crews began pulling a preconnect line for extinguishment. The fire was knocked down quickly and crews began overhaul. Prior to arrival, employees of LaBamba were attempting to extinguish the fire with a kitchen hose.

February, 2015

PAGE 15

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PAGE 16

February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

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February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

GEORGIA

BATTALION CHIEF MATTHEW SCHULTZ

BCES host annual officer retreat

SARGENT WILLIAMS RHFD

Pine Needle double wide ﬁre

Busy day in Bryan County for BCES Bryan County Emergency Services (BCES) and Richmond Hill Fire Department were dispatched to Pine Needly Road, on January 6, 2015 at 9:02 a.m. for a structure fire. Crews arrived on scene to find a double-wide mobile home involved with fire throughout the entire attic area and showing through parts of the roof. An aggressive JUMP TO FILE # attack was quickly 010715114 launched and a drop tank was deployed to establish a water supply for a water shuttle. With a report that one of the occupants may be inside, firefighters made an interior attack and a primary search was completed. One of the homeowners showed up and assured crews everyone was gone and the house was unoccupied. The firefighters then turned their attention to a defensive attack. Fire was marked under control around 9:58 a.m., but firefighters remained on the scene performing salvage and overhaul until 11:30 a.m. A family was displaced. Red Cross was requested to assist the displaced residents. The cause is under investigation. Around 3:00 p.m. BCES Battalion Chief, Rod Kirkland, was driving over to Station 2 when he witnessed a car turn into the path of a loaded school bus. The battalion chief notified dispatch and they dispatched Richmond Hill Fire and BCES ambulances. In his experience, and based upon severity of the crash, the battalion chief believed that one re more of

On Friday, January 9th and Saturday, January 10th, the Bryan County Emergency Services officers came together at Station 7 for their annual retreat. On Friday, the officers reviewed progress on their 2014 goals and established new goals for 2015. They also reviewed the mission statement, vision statement and core values they had set for the department. They also reviewed the department EMS protocols, SOP’s, career path, rules and regulations. Saturday, Jen Roberts, President and Founder of Difference Consulting, lead the session in which all the officers were administered a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) assessment and interpretive report and Introduction to Type & Communication book. Mrs. Roberts engaged the officers with an interactive and informative session focused on identifying

JUMP TO FILE #011315133

and understanding the 16 personality style preferences. Additionally, emphasis was placed on helping leaders better understand how their MBTI results influence communication. Last year was the first officers retreat and it established a solid foundation on which to build the combined department under the new leadership of Chief Freddy Howell. In this, its second year, the BCES officers found the presentations and activities very beneficial as they added to their skills. Surely these skills will be needed as the officers continue to grow the department and lead it into the future. - FREDDY HOWELL

PROVIDED

the occupants of the car may have experienced significant trauma, requiring air transport and called for a helicopter. Richmond Hill Fire Department arrived and started extrication, Richmond Hill chief assumed command from the battalion chief, who then began to render aid to the patients involved. The middle school children and the driver on the bus were checked by BCES medics and none were injured or required treatment or transport. A second school bus was called to the scene to transport the students to the high school, where they could be released to their parents. Richmond Hill Fire Department performed extrication and set up a helicopter landing zone as BCES medics treated the injured patients. After extrication, one patient was airlifted and three were transported by BCES ambulances. Harris Trail and Timber Trail

Roads were closed until the accident was cleared up. Agencies involved in the collaborative effort included Richmond Hill Fire and Police Departments, Bryan County Emergency Services, Richmond Hill School System, Life Star and Air Vac air ambulances. Around 8:30 p.m., on Georgia Highway 17 just west of I-95 BCES and Richmond Hill Fire and Police departments responded to a two vehicle MVA. On initial size up, it was believed that there were sevenpatients involved, which required mutual aid request from Liberty EMS and Savannah South Side Fire and Rescue. However, after further assessment, it was determined that a total of five patients were involved, and they were transported to local hospitals.

SHANE SHIFFLETT

Station 5 DeKalb County

- FREDDY HOWELL

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February, 2015

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PAGE 20

February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

TENNESSEE

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 Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

ASHLEY MCDONALD

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MFRD donates fire apparatus to Eagleville Fire Department Murfreesboro, TN. Eagleville city officials and fire department employees gathered at Eagleville City Hall on Tuesday, December 23 to accept the donation of a fire apparatus from Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department. On December 4, Murfreesboro City Council approved for MFRD to donate a 1990 Pierce 50’ Telesquirt to the Eagleville Fire Department. Eagleville’s city council accepted the donation at their December 18 meeting. “This engine will be a great asset to the City of Eagleville,” said Fire Chief Rick Parks. “If we should have a mechanical issue with one of our engines, this apparatus will allow us the capability to continue to operate with two engines until the

JUMP TO FILE #123014114

other is repaired.” Parks went on to say, “The 50’ Telesquirt boom gives us the capability to operate an elevated master stream at a large building ﬁre. This will give us the chance to have some control until additional resources from Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue or other mutual aid partners can get on scene to assist.” Chief Parks also hopes the apparatus will give the department some advantage with their Insurance Services Ofﬁce (ISO) rating, which helps determine insurance rates for their citizens. Mayor Travis Brown also ex-

pressed his appreciation for the donation, “I would like to thank the City of Murfreesboro and Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department on behalf of the citizens of Eagleville and those in the Eagleville fire protection district for their generous donation of this truck. Improving our fire department is a high priority. This is a great addition and will prove invaluable if a large fire were to occur in our community.” “Our department takes great pride in how we care for our apparatus and equipment,” said MFRD Deputy Chief Roger Toombs. “The apparatus is still in great shape, and we’re delighted that Eagleville will get good use out of it.” - ASHLEY MCDONALD

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Chattanooga firefighters responded to a reported structure fire shortly after 10:00 p.m. Thursday, December 18th at Scenic City Concrete Pumping, located at 2903 South Orchard JUMP TO FILE# Knob Avenue. 121914101 Captain Donny McMillian with Engine 9 said smoke was visible when the first firefighters arrived on the scene. Captain McMillian said the firefighters had to force their way through a locked gate and into the building, where they found a large pile of wood burning. Battalion Chief Chris Willmore, the incident commander, said the wood had been collected and used in a wood-burning stove that’s used to heat the building during cold weather. The firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire with no injuries reported. The firefighters then opened up the building to re-

BATTALION CHIEF CHRIS WILLMORE

move the smoke. No one was in the building at the time of the fire. Chief Willmore said most of the building was undamaged, with the dollar loss esti-

mated at $30,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation. - BRUCE GARNER

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

February, 2015

Page 21

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PAGE 22

February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

TENNESSEE

BRUCE GARNER

The Chattanooga ﬁreﬁghters who received promotions last year, along with Mayor Andy Berke and Fire Chief Lamar Flint.

Chattanooga firefighters honored Chattanooga firefighters honored their own at an awards program tonight at the Fire Training Center on Amnicola Highway. It was the first awards program for the department and plans are to make it an annual event. Fire Chief Lamar Flint and Mayor Andy Berke led the program, which honored those firefighters who retired or received promotions in 2014. Firefighters also received awards for their outstanding efforts on two different incidents last year. Captain Ashley May and Lieutenant Alex Cole were named Firefighters of the Year for saving a man’s life in a duplex fire at 2103 Daisy Street on August 5, 2014. Lieutenant Chris LaFerry, Firefighter Engineer Quinton Staton, Firefighter Jon Riley, Firefighter Senior Larry Olivier, Firefighter David Ruffin and Firefighter Senior Josh Burchard received Heroism Awards for their efforts at a tragic house fire at 220 Houser Street on Nov. 26, 2014. Though the two victims – Randall and Candy Lockhart -- did not survive, the firefighters put themselves in harm’s way and

JUMP TO FILE #010915107

went to extraordinary efforts to get the victims out of the burning house. Their three children are now living with their grandparents. Retirees are David Barie, Captain; Billy Gaston, Lieutenant; C.J. Howell, Fireﬁghter Senior; Rusty Rymer, Captain; Shawn Shipley, Lieutenant; and Steve Swanson, Battalion Chief. Promotions included Terrance Andrews, Captain; Brent Arnold, Captain; David Bishop, Lieutenant; Charles Blevins, Captain; Don Bowman, Battalion Chief; Jonathan Campbell, Lieutenant; Kevin Carpenter, Captain; Chris Cordes, Captain; Michael Dozier, Captain; Bradley Freeman, Lieutenant; Telly Grant, Lieutenant; Timothy Greer, Captain; Ronnie Goss, Lieutenant; James Guerrieri, Lieutenant; James Henegar, Captain; Vernon Horn, Lieutenant; David Hullander, Lieutenant; William Jackson, Captain; Robert Kirby, Lieutenant; Terry Knowles, Captain; Chadwick

Mansfield, Lieutenant; David Matthews, Lieutenant; Justin McCommon, Lieutenant; Ronny McMillian, Captain; Nate Middlebrooks, Battalion Chief; Chadd Nichols, Lieutenant; Raymond Reed, Lieutenant; Marcus Rice, Captain; Eric Roddy, Lieutenant; Evan Rose, Captain; Perry Stephens, Captain; Wadie Suttles, Captain; Tyler Swindell, Lieutenant; Justin Vice, Lieutenant; Alfred Walker, Captain; Andrew Waters, Captain; and Jeff Webster, Lieutenant. Firefighters of the Year for 2014 are Captain Ashley May and Lieutenant Alex Cole for response to duplex fire at 2103 Daisy Street on August 5. Heroism Awards for 2014 went to Lieutenant Chris LaFerry, Firefighter Engineer Quinton Staton, Firefighter Jon Riley, Firefighter Senior Larry Olivier, Firefighter David Ruffin, Firefighter Senior Josh Burchard for response to house fire at 220 Houser Street on November 26th. - BRUCE GARNER

VEHICLE NEWS If you have photos you would like to see in our Vehicle News feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

ASHLEY MCDONALD

Two adults and one child displaced Two adults and one child were displaced after a fire broke out in their unit in a duplex located at 1706 Craig Court around 4:20 Thursday morning, January 1. Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue's District 8 and Engine 1 arrived on scene to discover heavy smoke exiting the structure. The three residents in the affected unit crawled to safety through a front bedroom window and were outside when units arrived. "Crews located the fire in the kitchen area and got a quick knockdown on it," said Shift Commander Dale Maynard. The unit received flame dam-

JUMP TO FILE #010215103

age to the kitchen and heavy smoke and heat damage throughout. The attached unit (1708) was unaffected according to Maynard. The cause of the fire is unknown. The fire marshal's office was on scene conducting a routine investigation and will likely be back on scene tomorrow morning. The displaced residents are being assisted by the American Red Cross. - ASHLEY MCDONALD

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February, 2015

Page 23

Peoples Home Loans joins 1st Responder to support the Heroes Mortgage Program You risk your lives for us every day without giving it a second thought. It’s just who you are, it’s what you do. You are brave, selfless and hard-working. You are a hero. Brave men and women like you are why the Heroes Mortgage Program was created. 1st Responder and Peoples Home Loans have proudly collaborated to provide this great mortgage opportunity, which provides low interest rates for firefighters and other members of the emergency services community. In addition to great rates, the Heroes Mortgage Program offers minimal lender fees and promises to get clients in their new home by the contract date. “We are honored to be serving and working with the true heroes of our community,” 1st Responder Newspaper Publisher Joseph P. Belsito said. “Firefighters and other members of the emergency services community are an important part of the fabric of our society. They are always there for us, always on call. This is just a way to give back to them and their families. We are certainly excited about the Heroes Mortgage Program and expect it to grow.” The Heroes Mortgage Program understands how hard you work every day and the sacrifices you and your family make for us. That’s why our staff of respected professionals is committed to providing our heroes with unmatched customer service! Working with its own resources and Federal government programs, Peoples Home Loans develops solutions that open the path to home ownership, also offering cost-effective refinance

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options. The Heroes Mortgage Program is designed with you and your friends and family in mind! “We have already started working with clients and are receiving great reviews and referrals, which means a lot to us all,” said Steve Testa, a Peoples Home Loans production manager. “I’ve been humbled to get to know and

work closely with some of these men and women. To be able to help them fulfill their dream of purchasing their first home, or helping them with a better rate on a refinance, is very rewarding. I’m truly excited about developing this relationship with the firefighter and emergency services community.” To receive more information about the pro-

gram and its benefits, contact Steven Testa (NMLS 460176) at stesta@bankingunusual.com or call 877-541HERO (4376). Peoples Home Loans and 1st Responder Newspaper are not affiliated. Mortgage financing provided by Peoples Home Loans, a division of Peoples Bank – Equal housing Lender | Member FDIC

Firefighter thrilled with personal service during mortgage process Karl McAleer grew up around the firehouse with his father, uncles and grandfather, among others, serving as his heroes. As it turns out, Karl McAleer is a hero, too. He’s proud to be a fourth generation firefighter, carrying on the family tradition. “I just love serving people,” McAleer said. “I love that. For me, I wouldn’t want to do anything else. I will be doing this until I physically can’t anymore.” As proud as McAleer is to serve the community, the Heroes Mortgage Program is proud to have helped him purchase a home for his growing family. The innovative Heroes Mortgage Program is brought to you by 1st Responder and Peoples Home Loans. This mortgage opportunity provides low interest rates for firefighters and other members of the emergency services community. The program also offers minimal lender fees and promises to get clients in their new home by the contract date. McAleer, 35, is a volunteer firefighter with the North Branch (N.J.) Fire Department and is the fire sub-code officer in Bridgewater Township. He became a junior firefighter in Franklin Township when he was just 16. The Heroes Mortgage Program helped McAleer purchase a home in Belvidere, N.J. that was much bigger than his previous residence. Of course, he was provided with a great interest - KARL McALEER rate, low fees and exceptional customer service. “I thought it was a great tool,” said McAleer, who is married with two children. “I would tell anyone to go with the Heroes Mortgage Program. Steve Testa (Peoples Home Loans production manager) was great. He was always there for us and that meant a lot. I could call him at 6 or 7 o’clock at night and he would happily answer my questions. He was always there, reassuring us with any concerns that we had.” Peoples Home Loans and 1st Responder are honored to serve the heroes in our community, who risk their lives for us every day. Working with its own resources and Federal government programs, Peoples Home Loans develops solutions that open the path to home ownership, also offering costeffective refinance options. The Heroes Mortgage Program is designed with you and your friends and family in mind! To receive more information about the program and its benefits, contact Steven Testa (NMLS 460176) at stesta@bankingunusual.com or call 877-541-HERO (4376). Peoples Home Loans and 1st Responder Newspaper are not affiliated. Mortgage financing provided by Peoples Home Loans, a division of Peoples Bank – Equal housing Lender | Member FDIC

“I would tell anyone to go with the Heroes Mortgage Program.”

KARL McALEER

PAGE 24

February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

TENNESSEE

The Flame Within

ON THE BOOK SHELF by John Malecky

DJ CORCORAN

Homeowner displaced during holidays At 5:40 p.m. on December 27th, a neighbor to 743 Chestnut St called 911 to report smoke coming from the house next door. When firefighters arrived, they forced entry into the clutter filled structure to find the front room of the home on fire. Fire crews quickly extinguished the flames, containing the fire damage to that area, while additional manpower completed a primary and secondary search for any possible victims, with none found. The owner of the home was away at the time of the blaze. No injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation. The occupant of the home will find shelter with family and friends.

The Flame Within Memoir of a Firefighter By Wayne Mutza Available from: FSP Books & Videos 188 Central Street, Suite #4 Hudson, MA 07149-1330 1-800522-8528 E-Mail: support@firep o l i c e - e m s . c o m www.fire-police-ems.com Price: $29.95 Call it pulling no punches, all meat and potatoes, telling it like it is, holding nothing back or whatever else you want to call it, this book tells it like it is through the eyes and memory of a Milwaukee firefighter. Wayne Mutza (pronounced Mootza) was a gung ho firefighter who made it up to lieutenant before retiring. I actually met him back in 1977 when he was a “cub” as the MFD would refer to the least senior member of a station or a company. I was with a group of buffs from New Jersey, who flew to Milwaukee ultimately on our way to a buff convention in St. Louis, Missouri. We were spending a few days in Milwaukee before driving

to Chicago and then took a train to St. Louis. Wayne, who was assigned to Engine 20 at headquarters gave us a tour of the building. He was only on the job for about a year, but I could tell he was a dedicated man to the job. Ask me how I remember his name back that far and I would have to admit that I really do not know, because there are times that I cannot remember what I had for dinner the night before! Anyway, the author gives us an unbiased account of the many years of service in which he performed in different capacities. They includes assignments to engine companies, truck companies, both busy ones and slower ones and the training division as well as details to other special units. Milwaukee, being a major city has many busy stations as well as a number of slower stations. The MFD was involved in first responder calls (medical calls) and like any other fire department, the medical calls are of a much higher volume than fire and other type calls. It is that way in all fire departments. My reasoning is that there are more people than buildings and other things to burn. A building may have more than one fire during its existence, but a person may need an ambulance many more times in

comparison. So in the book you will read about mostly medical calls, accident calls and fires with byproducts such as collapses and things along that nature. There are accounts of many serious fires. The author’s imagery puts you right there in the midst of the operation. The medical calls are usually responded to when there is a life threatening situation. As you read the details of some of these calls you will see that little is left to the imagination. You will be exposed to how vicious can be to each other when they are related or not. When I first visited Milwaukee, I was impressed as it looked like a clean town. But after reading this book, I realized that this is a crime ridden city of which no one, not even emergency service personnel are exempt from abuse and disrespect. He also writes about the politics, the social problems within the department and the attitudes that make the job difficult at times to do. He also writes about his own family life and the trials and tribulations that came along with living in this society. I would recommend to anyone who takes an interest in memoirs, especially members and past members of the fire service who can closely identify with the author’s experiences.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? If you have photos you would like to see in our Where are they Now feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

DJ CORCORAN

Storage building fire in Knoxville At 1:30 a.m. on December 27th, neighbors to 834 West Oldham Ave. called 911 to report a garage across the street on fire. When firefighters arrived, they found a structure approximately 12' x 14' single story storage building with an attached carport fully involved with flames. Fire crews made a defensive attack from outside the burning structure. The building appears to be a total loss. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is being investigated.

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Engine 32 with the Three Star Fire Protection District (TN) originally saw service with Greater Round Lake, IL.

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

February, 2015

Page 25

PAGE 26

February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

TENNESSEE

BRUCE GARNER

Firefighters hit the streets with smoke alarms Chattanooga firefighters visited homes along the 400 block of N. Hawthorne Street on January 5th, knocking on doors and offering fire safety information and smoke alarms if needed. This follows a house fire at 410 N. Hawthorne last Monday. No one was injured in that fire. Fire Marshal Beau Matlock says members of the Fire Prevention Bureau are doing what they can to prevent fires. “Most fires are preventable,” said Matlock. “We’re just trying to offer some fire safety information that will help these residents avoid

JUMP TO FILE #010715121

tragedies in the future.” The fire prevention personnel were joined in the effort by firefighters from Engine 5 and Ladder 5, the same firefighters who responded to Monday’s fire. If no one was home, the firefighters left a “door hanger” on the door knob, a new publication the department is using to help spread the word on fire prevention. The firefighters also installed seven smoke alarms in homes that

needed them. With the coldest weather of the season upon us, Chief Matlock urges area residents to be ﬁre safe. “Remember the three foot rule when using heating appliances such as space heaters and wall heaters,” said Matlock. “Keep anything that will burn at least three feet away from those heaters.” Matlock added that having a working smoke alarm in your home doubles your chances of surviving a ﬁre in your home. - BRUCE GARNER

ASHLEY MCDONALD

MFRD responds to kitchen fire at Hardee’s on Memorial December 25, 2014. Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department's Districts 4 and 6 and Rescue 8 responded to the Hardee's restaurant located at 1851 Memorial Boulevard around 6:45 Thursday morning. When Ladder 6's crew arrived, flames were visible through the windows. The fire was located in the kitchen and employees had already deployed their extinguisher. MFRD crews used a chemical extinguisher to put out the remaining fire. Crews also helped clear smoke from the building. There were no injuries associated with this incident. According to Shift Commander Dale Maynard, the restaurant has a lot of clean up to do before they can reopen for business. It is unknown if Hardee's will reopen for business today.

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MFRD crews extinguish vehicle fire at auto auction Murfreesboro, TN. Murfreesboro Fire & Rescue Department’s Districts 1 and 9 responded to a vehicle on fire at auto auction located at 1815 Old Fort Parkway around 10:30 on January 5th. Initially, crews were told that the vehicle was next to the building. However, when crews arrived on scene, they discovered a GMC Z-71 fully involved in the middle of the parking lot. Crews quickly extinguished the fire, and no other vehicles were affected. According to Captain Joe Barrett, the fire appears accidental and most likely started under the dash and spread to the engine compartment. No one was injured during the incident.

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February, 2015

PAgE 27

FLORIDA

ANTIQUE APPARATUS

CHRIS DILLEY

Heavy Flames reported on arrival

PBCFR

Blaze strikes in Palm Beach County Palm Beach County Fire Rescue 'B' Shift, 3rd Battalion arrived to find heavy flames showing from the alpha and delta sides of a residential structure with exposures threatened. Initial attack lines were stretched to a fully involved JUMP TO FILE# 121614107 kitchen through an open carport entry while additional lines protected the interior through the front door. A large body of fire threatened the next door house from multiple windows on side Delta. The early establishment of command from DC10 and the quick and aggressive actions of Stations 23 and 33 working together is what quickly brought this fire under control

Fire Chief Joe Martin from Eastern District Fire Rescue owns a 1926 American LaFrance pumper that he has personally restored. This truck served with the City of South Jacksonville from October 1926 until being annexed by Jacksonville in 1932. Service continued with JFRD until 1955 at which time it was transferred to the Lakewood VFD and served until 1960. Some historical footnotes about this apparatus are that it knocked Trolley 106 off its tracks and the whole right side of this truck were wrecked while ﬁghting a brush ﬁre in 1948.

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February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

FLORIDA

Firefighters battle string of suspicious fires in Ocala JOEL GORDON

Barry tries on his new Plantation Fire helmet.

Plantation helps enhance boy’s wish Plantation, FL. Christmas came early in Plantation for one young boy as he visited Florida to receive a wish from Make-A-Wish. Barry and his family traveled from California to meet his favorite singer at the Y-100 Jingle Ball concert. During their stay in Florida, Renaissance hotel employees teamed up with Plantation firefighters to provide a special welcome to Barry and his family. Barry was presented with a real Plantation Fire Department helmet, dressed in actual firefighting gear and was treated, along with his brother and sister, to a ride on the fire truck.

JUMP TO FILE #123014116

Barry, his brother and sister were also given Plantation Fire Department t-shirts and hats as souvenirs from their visit. In July, the Plantation Fire Department also teamed up with Make-A-Wish to host Mount Horeb volunteer ﬁreﬁghter Chris Rupp, who completed a crosscountry bike ride from Seattle to Plantation. The ride was to help raise money to grant ill children their wishes. - JOEL GORDON

Ocala, FL On December 18, 2014 , multiple units from Ocala Fire Rescue responded to a string of suspicious fires that occurred after 11:00 p.m. between 17th Street and South Pine Avenue. At 11:24 p.m. JUMP TO FILE # Ocala Engine 3, 121914104 Rescue 1, and a MCFR unit responded to reports of a vehicle fire at Kingdom Motors Used Car Lot, 1825 South Pine Avenue. Upon arrival firefighters found two vehicles engulfed in flames. While extinguishing the vehicle fires, a smoking dumpster less than 200 feet away was spotted. As Engine 3 smothered the dumpster fire, yet another fire was reported. Engine 1 was dispatched to Ipanema Restaurant, 2023 South Pine Avenue, where a second dumpster was found filled with

ASHLEY LOPEZ

flames. The cause of the fires is under investigation. The state fire marshal has been contacted.

Both vehicles where a total loss. No injuries were sustained. - ASHLEY LOPEZ

February, 2015

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Page 29

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February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

Character and integrity in today’s fire and EMS service STAYING SAFE Chief Henry Campbell

It seems that almost on a daily basis when reading a newspaper or online fire service news report there is a member of the fire or EMS service who has managed to become one of that day’s news headlines. The headline blaring the infraction or crime that has supposedly occurred somewhere across our nation and for which the individual has been charged. These offenses cover a vast variety of lifestyles and laws from alcohol and drugs to misdemeanors to felonies; DWI, theft, assault, theft, including stealing secured drugs from ambulances and stocked supply, and a variety of sexual related offenses. They all make their way into the news headlines and bring an embarrassment to the fire and EMS services and the majority of good people, who perform and produce an invaluable service every day protecting life and property. Did these problems exist years ago, or are they a phenomenon of our present and ever changing social culture? I know they existed, though maybe not in the numbers as they do today. Also, 25 years ago there was no news reporting as it exists today with almost immediate coverage of any form of issue that may even seem like news. Social networking provides an instantaneous form of good and bad news as well as video recordings of the incident being reported. Anyone with a cell phone and social network can become a news reporter, providing up to the minute reports that will be picked up and rebroadcast in seconds. Before you know it you can have your name and picture posted around the globe, becoming either a hero or a goat. In moments of weakness, there are some members, who do their own social networking, which can bring embarrassment and humiliation to other members, their department, or municipality. Irresponsible messages may lead to department investigations and prosecution for which these members will be held accountable for their postings on the social network. Be careful of what you post and aware that it may insult or defame someone. After the fact, self-embarrassment and weak apologies are generally dismissed as too little too late. That one moment of anger may come with repercussions lead-

ing to department discipline resulting in discharge from the department, and civil lawsuits and/or criminal charges. What has happened to one’s conscience that discerns right from wrong? Has integrity and moral values, the staunch guardians of our conscience and our actions, disappeared? Does one believe he/she can say and do as they please under freedom of speech? Does one think he/she can commit illegal and criminal acts and not face repercussion? Department rules and regulations tend to keep most members with weak moral values in line, but it is the individual personal character and conscience that should be the guiding light, the moral compass. We perform our daily functions as members of a team and those team operations rely on the trust and respect we have for each other. The About.com web site, http://humanresources.about.com/, deﬁnes integrity, the type of integrity we would like to see in all fellow employees and members: “Integrity is one of the fundamental values that employers seek in the employees that they hire. It is the hallmark of a person who demonstrates sound moral and ethical principles at work. “A person who has integrity lives his or her values in relationships with coworkers, customers, and stakeholders. Honesty and trust are central to integrity. Acting with honor and truthfulness are also basic tenets in a person with integrity. “People who demonstrate integrity draw others to them because they are trustworthy and dependable. They are principled and can be counted on to behave in honorable ways even when no one is watching.” As members of the emergency services we have always been held to a higher standard, one that has elevated us from the ordinary citizen, a position in which the public expects us to be honest and trustworthy individuals who extol those virtues as described in the above deﬁnition of integrity. We are in a service that requires compassion, trust, responsibility and respect for others; all these personal traits are what mold our character and integrity. A few years ago I received the following poem, author unknown: Destiny Watch your thoughts; they become words. Watch your words; they become actions. Watch your actions; they become habits. Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny. Till next time stay safe and God Bless!

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FLORIDA

JENNIFER JOHNSON

Battalion Chief Mark Whelpley, Lt. Eddie Monahan, Fireﬁghter/Paramedic's Ivonne Garcia and Michael Lesmes. Not pictured are Alberto Martinez and Stephen Springs.

Crew rescues woman from burning apartment North Lauderdale, FL. Crews on duty at Station 44 in North Lauderdale responded to an apartment ﬁre and got more than they expected after ﬁnding out two people may be inside Tuesday, December 2, 2014. At around 6:30 p.m., a neighbor reported smelling smoke from an adjoining apartment at the Parrots Landing complex on Sussex Drive. The reporting source stated a woman and child live in the apartment, but he was unaware if they were home at the time. With possible victims inside, Battalion Chief Mark Whelpley gave the go ahead to evacuate the entire building and proceed with a dangerous entry into

JUMP TO FILE #122314102

the burning apartment. Crews tried to enter through the front door; however, it was barricaded on the inside. Fireﬁghter and paramedic, Yvonne Garcia, began to make entry at one of the apartment's windows, but located an unconscious woman in her mid-30's laying on the ground. Garcia passed her off to crews from the City of Tamarac. Lt. Eddie Monahan, Driver Stephen Springs and Fireﬁghter/Paramedics Alberto Martinez, Michael Lesmes and Garcia continued to search and extinguish

the fire. "We didn't know the extent of the fire or if people were inside when we arrived," said firefighter Eddie Monahan. "Had the neighbor not called to report the smoke when he did, the results could have been much worse. Thankfully, nobody was hurt." The woman, who was inside the apartment for at least 30 minutes, was reported to be in stable condition. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the State Fire Marshal. - JENNIFER JOHNSON

CHARLIE ROBBINS

Alva handles semi versus SUV and forklift crash At 2:21 p.m. on January 3rd, Alva Fire Rescue, Fort Myers Shores Fire Rescue and Lee County EMS were dispatched to Palm Beach Boulevard at Bateman Road for a multi vehicle crash. Upon arrival, Alva Engine 121 advised they had a three vehicle crash involving a semi truck, a passenger vehicle on it's side and a forklift. Engine 121 reported a minute later that they had one signal 7 (fatality) in the overturned auto, one fork lift operator with minor injuries for transport and the semi driver refusing treatment. Apparently, the sport utility vehicle was following the forklift at slow speed with his hazard flashers on as a safety precaution because the forklift had no lights, when it was rear-ended by the semi truck.

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February, 2015

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February, 2015

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FLORIDA

Vehicle News

DIVISION CHIEF MIKE MOSER - CSFD

The Coral Springs Fire Department took possession of two new rescue trucks, 2014 Freightliner Extended Cab style with a custom made patient compartment by Taylor Made

Cat rescued in DeLand house fire A family escaped safely from their home in DeLand, which sustained significant damage during a structure fire. However, the family was unable to locate their cat and dog prior to exiting the home. A JUMP TO FILE # search of the house 121614109 was conducted by Volusia County Fire Services and DeLand Fire Department to locate the animals. The cat was found unresponsive and not breathing, but fire crews performed rescue measures on the feline and within two minutes the cat was breathing on its own. A family member took the cat to the animal clinic near the home. Unfortunately, the dog did not survive the blaze. - KATE LIND

PROVIDED ALEX IHRIG, VOL. FF/EMT IMMFIRE

Fireﬁghter providing rescue measures on a family's pet.

Immokalee, FL. On November 12, 2014, the Immokalee Fire Control District placed in service its latest addition to its ﬂeet, Heavy Rescue 31, a 2014 E-One Typhoon E-Max rescue pumper

CAPTAIN ALBERT BORROTO

Palm Beach County brings holiday cheer to community Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Battalion 4, Station 47, continues their tradition of bringing holiday cheer to homeowners in their response zone. The station graciously transports Santa around for families to enjoy. This has been going on for several years and continues to delight the residents!

JUSTIN THALGOTT

Animal rescue in Sumter County On December 26th, Sumter County Fire & EMS Engine 31 responded to a citizen assist reference an animal rescue involving a horse that had fallen into a small hole. Upon arrival, personnel on scene were attempting to pull the horse from the hole. E31 crew members assisted pulling straps that were already secured to the animal.

JUMP TO FILE #122914106

The horse was in obvious distress and was breathing at a minimal rate with a rapid pulse. Battalion Chief 31 arrived on scene shortly after E31 and assisted with operations. Once the horse was out of the hole, E31 crews quickly adminis-

tered oxygen through a special animal breathing mask. The horse was then able to walk around on its own power. The horse owner related that the horse was 30 years old and had been with the family for 23 years. They were very grateful for the assistance provided by the ﬁre department’s personnel. - JUSTIN THALGOTT

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February, 2015

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FLORIDA

TIMOTHY HEISER

Battalion chief celebrates 40th year On January 6th, Battalion Chief David DiPetrillo celebrated his 40th year anniversary with the City of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue. Chief DiPetrillo served the United States in the Army during the Vietnam War and upon his return, became one of the first paramedics in the State of Florida. Chief DiPetrillo has an original state paramedic number of 007 (currently, the state numbers are in the 526000 range). Prior to working for the fire department Chief DiPetrillo was a City of Fort Lauderdale lifeguard, starting in 1967. Over the years Chief DiPetrillo has been instrumental in the advancement of the fire rescue department and has served as EMS

JUMP TO FILE #010915109

Bureau Chief, Chief of the Training and Special Operations Bureau, Grants, UASI and the Hazardous Materials Team. Chief DiPetrillo was the driving force behind Fort Lauderdale taking over responsibility for its EMS system in 1996. Chief DiPetrillo is currently assigned to the 13th Battalion where he oversees the fire stations assigned to protect Victoria Park and the Fort Lauderdale Barrier Island. - TIMOTHY HEISER

CAPTAIN ALBERT BORROTO

Crews handle early morning roof fire At 7:30 a.m. on New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue crews responded to the 800 block of S. Congress Ave in Palm Springs for reports of a commercial structure fire. Callers reported black smoke from the roof of a building. First arriving crews reported smoke from the roof of a building in a strip mall. The building was evacuated for safety reasons of all workers inside and firefighters immediately started investigating the source. Crews found no smoke or flames inside the building, but did locate a small fire on the roof. Firefighters quickly brought the fire under control and extinguished it. There were no reported injuries and an investigator was called to determine the cause of the fire.

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February, 2015

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FLORIDA

PAT TRAVERS/NEFIREPHOTO.COM

Fort Myers Beach man dies following three car crash TIMOTHY HEISER

Fifteen injured in six vehicle wreck Around 6:30 p.m. in the 2300 block of Northwest Ninth Avenue on January 6th, a wreck involved six vehicles: five cars and a Broward County bus. It appeared that one car crashed into the bus and as drivers attempted to go around the initial crash, they caused additional wrecks. One of the cars overturned. Eight people were treated at the scene and seven people were transported to area hospitals by Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue. One adult and one child sustained serious traumatic injury, but are expected to survive. Northwest Ninth Avenue was temporarily closed as crews worked to clear the scene.

ANDREW POPICK

Davie Fire Rescue promotions The Davie Fire Rescue Department is fortunate and proud to have been able to promote personnel to the ranks of Fire Rescue Captain, and Captain. Congratulations to our newly promoted officers for their hard work and perseverance.

Fort Myers Beach, Lee County, FL. On the afternoon of Monday, January 5, 2015 at approximately 1:05 p.m., local fire departments, EMS, and the Lee County Sheriffs Department responded to the bridge at Big San Carlos Pass for a reported motor vehicle accident. Companies arrived to find a three vehicle accident on the bridge. The accident reportedly occurred when traffic was stopped due to the draw bridge being raised. A vehicle

JUMP TO FILE #010615109

being driven by a 78 year old Fort Myers Beach man collided with a parked car at approximately 55miles per hour. That car then struck another car. Several people were transported to a local hospital with minor injuries, but the driver of the at-fault vehicle later died at the hos-

pital. The Lee County Sheriffs Ofﬁce reports that no signs of impairment were found, and it is believed that the collision is a result of a medical event. Trafﬁc was snarled in both directions for an extended period of time while the accident was investigated and the crash scene was cleared. The accident investigation continues. - PAT TRAVERS

PBCFR semi annual hazmat skills scenario training Over the span of two weeks, all six special operations crews came together to participate in their semi-annual hazmat skills scenario training at headquarters. This training is JUMP TO FILE# conducted twice a 122214130 year to help those assigned to special operations maintain their competency levels in the area of hazardous materials response. The scenario is a real-life preplanned hazmat situation that challenges the abilities and response of all of those members of the team, from the Special Ops DC on down to the Special Ops Firefighter rank. As the scenario unfolds in real time, the actual tasks of science and research, establishing evacuation zones, chemical hazard recognition, hazardous materials com, site safety compliance, Level A suit donning, pre-entry safety briefing, leak and spill mitigation, mayday procedures and technical decon are all covered. It doesn't get any more realistic than this when it comes to simulating a challenging multiple leak response by your special ops team. These drills are essential to keeping all of our special ops response teams sharp and competent in the handling of the most challenging of situations and hazards. In addition, in a true life situ-

CAPTAIN ALBERT BORROTO

ation like the one depicted in this scenario, both teams will be needed to mitigate the incident. Exercises such as these are essential to help maintain seamless

operations between 14 members from two different Special Ops teams. - ALBERT BORROTO

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

February, 2015

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February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

FLORIDA

ASHLEY LOPEZ

Ocala Fire Rescue welcomes first K-9 Ocala, FL. Ocala Fire Rescue is excited to confirm the arrival of its first accelerant-detection canine, Gracie. Acquisition of the two year old yellow Labrador came as a result of Captain Roseanne Moreland’s successful quest for State Farm’s Arson Training Program Grant. A program established in 1993 to aid fire and law enforcement agencies not only with their investigative efforts, but their community outreach and educational endeavors. The grant, valued at approximately $25,000 dollars covered the cost of the arson dog, training fees for both handler and canine, room and board during the five week long training process in Alfred, Maine, as well as certification.

BRAD DYKENS

Blaze damages garage, vehicles and home At 8:00 a.m. on Monday, December 22, units from the City of Seminole Fire Rescue responded to a structure fire at 9227 143 Street North. First units on the scene found the structure with heavy smoke coming from the garage. Initiating a fast attack, the units quickly extinguished the fire limiting damage to the garage area and two vehicles parked outside. The home received smoke damage throughout. The homeowners,

JUMP TO FILE #122214124

Norman and Beverly Williams, credit the fact that they had several operating smoke alarms in the home which alerted them and two house guests to the fire and allowed for ample time to escape. City of Seminole Fire officials were still investigating the cause of the fire. Fire officials also commented on the fact that the smoke

alarms were the real hero in this emergency. It is important for all homes to have working smoke alarms thus giving a resident a valuable head start to evacuate a fire. The garage sustained fire, smoke and water damage. The balance of the home received smoke damage. Two vehicles parked outside of garage received damage from fire exposure. - BRAD DYKENS

TIMOTHY HEISER

Two extricated on New Year’s Day Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue responded to a vehicle roller accident off the ramp of Interstate 95.The single vehicle rollover accident happened around 9:30 p.m. on New Year’s day. Two people were trapped within the heavily damaged overturned vehicle. The extrication was made more difficult as the vehicle was upside down on a wooded embankment. Crews stabilized the vehicle and used tools to free the entrapped victims. The extrication took approximately 25 minutes. Two patients were transported as trauma alerts to Broward Health Trauma Center.

ASHLEY LOPEZ

Ocala comes together for holiday food and toy drive Ocala, FL. After three weeks of collecting food and toys for local charities, Ocala Fire Rescue distributed the donations gathered from citizens and fire personnel. Boxes filled with stuffed animals, Barbie dolls, toiletries, and non perishables were distributed to Interfaith, the Salvation Army and Pay It Forward.

February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

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February, 2015

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FLORIDA

Immokalee Fire Rescue responds to dump truck rollover in remote location

CAPTAIN ALBERT BORROTO

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue celebrates 30th Anniversary Palm Beach County Fire Rescue recently celebrated their 30th Anniversary. The community was invited to the department headquarters on Pike Road to see live demonstrations and see how the department has evolved from its creation in 1984. Attendees were treated to rescue and extrication demonstrations plus the opportunity to tour the regional training grounds. The department Bureau of Safety Services staffed educational booths on fire safety, firefighting gear for children to try on and several miniature fire trucks. Thank you to everyone that attended for making the celebration a huge success!

Immokalee, FL. With only a couple of days left before the new year, ImmFire responded to a rollover accident involving a dump truck. The one vehicle accident occurred in a remote JUMP TO FILE# area of Collier 122914121 County on County Rd. 850 near the county line. Units arrived to find the International Tri-axle dump truck on its side leaking fuel from a one of its saddle tanks which had ruptured and the injured driver receiving aid from other motorist. Quickly crews divided their efforts containing the fuel leak while others tended to the injured driver. The two lane road remained shut down for sometime while the truck was brought up-right and the hazard and debris cleaned up. Collier Co. EMS Medic 31 transported the injured driver to NCH Hospital in Naples with a non-life threatening injuries to his head and elbow. The Florida Highway Patrol arrived todetermine the cause of the accident. Units on scene included ImmFire EN30, Heavy Rescue 31, Captain and Chief 30, Collier Co. EMS and Sheriff Office and the Florida Highway Patrol - ARMANDO NEGRIN

ARMANDO "MANDO" NEGRIN, PIO

Heavy damage to the fully loaded truck with diesel fuel leaking from a ruptured saddle tank.

SCOTT MULLIN

Second alarm warehouse fire DAVID KNOWLES

Miami, FL. Over 100 firefighters from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue battled a second alarm warehouse fire on the night of December 10, 2014. The blaze broke out near Miami International Airport (MIA) at a warehouse located near NW 70th Ave and 22 Street. First arriving units reported heavy black smoke showing from the two story commercial building. Firefighters attempted an interior attack until conditions deteriorated to the point it was no longer safe. Due to the size of the structure and the flammable materials burning, a defensive approach was implemented. A foam truck was pulled from MIA to assist in “surround and drown” efforts. An MDFR fire investigator found that the fire started when a forklift motor malfunctioned, causing a small explosion.

Structure fire in Inglis At approximately 10:52 a.m. on Thursday, December 11th, Levy County 911 Communications Center received a call of a structure fire as reported by the homeowner located at 302 Debra St, Inglis Florida. Levy County Sherriff’s Deputies, Levy County Department of Public Safety (LCDPS) Battalion-1, Engine 3, Tanker 3, Squad 3, and Rescue 3, Inglis Volunteer Fire Department, and South Levy Volunteer Fire Department responded to the scene. Upon arrival, LCDPS units discovered fire extending from the outside air conditioning unit into the insulation and ducting under the doublewide mobile home. Crews worked together quickly bringing the fire under control, saving the home from extensive damage beyond the air conditioning system. No injuries were reported.

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February, 2015

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FLORIDA

JOEL GORDON

Santa and Plantation ﬁreﬁghters spread holiday cheer and gifts to children who will be in Plantation General Hospital over the Christmas holiday.

Plantation brings smiles to sick children T’was quiet on Plantation General’s PEDS floor as Christmas drew near, The squeaking of nurses shoes was all you did hear. Then suddenly there arose such a noise and a clatter. Sleigh bells and footsteps burst through the doors with patter. Merry Christ- JUMP TO FILE# mas, Merry Christ- 123014115 mas he shouted down the hall, For Santa came to visit the sickest children of all. Santa and firefighters from Plantation appeared, With a cart full of toys and wishes of cheer. From room to room he moved through the hospital floor, Knocking and entering through every door. Even sisters and brothers received gifts too, The smiles were many and tears were a few. Everyone posed for pictures with Claus Even the busy nurses smiled and gave pause. After greeting the children on the PEDS floor, Santa traveled to the PICU and the ER to do more. When the cart was all emptied and the children all cheered Santa turned with a wink and wiped off a tear. And he waived as he walked out of PGH that great night, Saying “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.” - JOEL GORDON

ARMANDO NEGRIN

Immokalee receives early Christmas gift On Saturday, December 20th, the Immokalee Fire Rescue District and its firefighters received an early Christmas gift. The Northside Naples Kiwanis Club presented the fire district with 15 brand new bed mattresses. These new mattresses will immediately be placed in service at each of the district's three stations, replacing the current ones which have begun to show their wear and tear.

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February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

FLORIDA

LILLIAN SEXTON

CHARLIE ROBBINS

Longwood honors three

LAFD ﬁreﬁghter checks for hazards after the patient was removed.

Fatal wreck for Lehigh Acres LAFD Stations 103, 104 and Battalion 100, Chief Christensen responded at 8:51 p.m. on January 1st to 743 Harry Avenue South for a van versus house. Upon arrival, Engine 103 advised he had a minivan into a garage with one patient not breathing. Truck 104 arrived moments later and assisted Engine 103 in removing the driver, who was not belted and had hit the passenger

JUMP TO FILE #010115113

side A post causing severe head trauma. During removal from the vehicle, the patient lost a pulse and CPR was started. Rescue 104 arrived on scene and the patient was loaded with CPR ongoing and transported as a trauma arrest. The

patient was pronounced dead at the hospital. It was learned from police that the deceased had stolen the minivan and was being chased by another car when he lost control at high speed and crashed into the building causing heavy damage to the structure and two cars in the garage. - CHARLIE ROBBINS

Daytona Beach Fire Department participates in multi-agency training When a multi-agency fire department response is required at the scene of a motor vehicle crash and victim extrication is essential, it’s important that the responding agencies have the familiarity of the resources, tools, and equipment each response organization is bringing to the incident. In December, 324 firefighters JUMP TO FILE# 123114103 from various fire department agencies within Volusia County participated in multi-agency vehicle extrication training at the Volusia County Fire Services Training Center. The comprehensive training program offered both lecture and essential hands-on training strategically dismantling over 50 salvaged cars. With the expansive variety of specialized certifications required for the fire service, continuing education and training is essential for compliance. The countless hours of training are necessary for firefighters to hone their skills to be used in

The City of Longwood Fire Department recently recognized the lifetime achievements of three senior officers Cindy Carbonell, Battalion Chief, Corey Cohen FF/EMT/OIC and Phyllis Williams, Training Officer/LT./PM. Together these three officers had 80 years of combined service to the City of Longwood Fire Department. The Fire and EMS careers of Battalion Chief Cindy Carbonell, who was hired on June 4, 1984 and Lieutenants Phyllis Williams and Corey Cohen who were both hired on December 18, 1989 were highlighted at a Longwood Fire Department Retirement Celebration held on November 20th at the city’s community building. Representatives of the fire service community from throughout Central Florida as well as the

JUMP TO FILE #121114105

City’s Mayor, John Maingot, Commissioner Brian Sackett and Representative Bob Cortes attended to celebrate and acknowledge their individual contributions to improved fire and EMS service not only in Longwood, but throughout Seminole County. These three fire officers worked their way up through the ranks of the city’s fire department through personal dedication, motivation and advanced training and education. They trained and mentored many firefighters and paramedics in our region and leave a legacy of excellence with the City of Longwood Fire Department. - LILLIAN SEXTON

CHARLIE ROBBINS

Lehigh Acres Beetle fire LT. ANTHONY MCCULLEY

emergency situations when seconds count. The multi-agency vehicle extrication training offered firefighters an opportunity to receive instruction from experienced certified fire

instructors and the opportunity to continue enhancing the functional unity of the ﬁre service in Volusia County. - JULIE MADDUX

At 2:20 p.m. on January 5th, LAFD Engine 102 was dispatched to Chamonix Ave and Kingsbury St for a possible car fire. Upon arrival, they found a well involved VW Beetle and a small amount of brush burning. The engine was short one firefighter because the rider had jumped aboard Rescue 102 several minutes prior at a trauma alert gunshot call. Lieutenant Lance Delgado had the line all to himself at this fire.

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

February, 2015

CHANGING FIRE SERVICE

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SMOKIN’ EVENTS IN THE EXHIBIT HALL M Exhibit floor product demonstrations – Try products before you buy them! See an auto extrication demonstration from FS3 and vehicle stabilization demonstrations from Paratech and Res-Q-Jack. M Firefighter Throwdown – The most exciting Crossfit competition just for First Responders. M Mechanics clinic – Get troubleshooting and how-to tips from apparatus and fire equipment manufacturers as well as fleet professionals. M Moderated panels – Without question a program you don’t want to miss! Sessions will address Tactics and Training for the Modern Fireground and Navigating the Turbulent Seas of Change. M Firehouse Fever – Register to win daily prizes! Stop by participating companies daily and enter to win great prizes.

MUST-ATTEND OPENING CEREMONY AND KEYNOTE PRESENTATION TUESDAY, JAN. 27 | 10:15 AM

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February, 2015

1st Responder Newspaper - sE

FLORIDA

STEPHEN SABO

Riviera Beach Fire Departments booth

DAVID KNOWLES

LCDPS competes in ALS competition 00Levy County Department of Public Safety (LCDPS) members, Stephen Ferguson, Humberto Jimenez, and Jon Gilbert volunteered to represent Levy County in an advanced life support (ALS) competition hosted by Temple Terrace Fire Department on November 12th and 13th, 2014. This event was a challenge for critical thinking and problem solving in advanced life support skills

JUMP TO FILE #112414129

used in the ﬁeld. The competition consisted of six complex scenarios where each paramedic was expected to triage and manage multiple unique patient presentations simultaneously, challenging them to utilize their knowledge and training.

Each scenario had its own unique twist, including SWAT active shooter simulations, a water park tower, a tent city, and a zoo enclosure. This was Levy County’s ﬁrst appearance at the competition where the team placed 12 overall, amongst other teams from all over the state. - DAVID KNOWLES

Structure fire in Chiefland

4th Annual Tequesta Firefighters Chili Cookoff On November 9th Tequesta Fire Rescue held their 4th Annual Chili Cookoff to support the Honor Flight of South Florida. The Honor Flight transports America's veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit those memorials dedicated to honor their service and sacrifices. Honor Flight's top priority is given to America's most senior heroes—survivors of World War II and any veteran with a terminal illness who wishes to visit THEIR memorial. The program will naturally transition to Korean War, Vietnam War and all other veterans who served, on a chronological basis. There were numerous booths from fire rescue services throughout the Tri-County Area of Palm

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Beach County, Martin County, and Broward County also local businesses had booths set up. The IAFF Local 2928 of the Professional Firefighters/Paramedics of Palm Beach County won first place in the Judges and People's Choice Award. Local 2829 Red, White and Blue Chili Team members included Jeff Miller, Doug Manger, Tammy Madison, Sandra Boike and Jack Norris. A great time was had by all and it all went for a good cause. - STEPHEN SABO

PATCHES

At approximately 2:59 a.m. on Saturday, November 29th, Levy County 911 Communications Center received a call of a structure fire located at 106 Northeast 5th Street, Chiefland. Chiefland Fire Department, Levy County Sherriff’s Deputies, Levy County Department JUMP TO FILE# 120114139 of Public Safety (LCDPS) Battalion 1, and Rescue 7, Bronson Fire Department, and Fanning Springs Fire Department responded. Upon arrival, first-in units found a residential structure on fire with flames through the roof. Crews worked together quickly establishing defensive fire operations, bringing the fire under control. The structure and one vehicle were deemed a total loss. One occupant of the structure was found deceased in the residence. No other injuries were reported. The fire marshal was notified to determine the cause of the fire.

If you have photos you would like to see in our Patches feature, please upload them on our website www.1stResponderNews.com or email them to Heather@1stResponderNews.com.

ROBERT PAV

Pembroke Pines Explorer 9/11 Patch

- ALESHA ARNOLD ALESHA ARNOLD

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February, 2015

Fire Station Floor Experts

KEVIN SAXTON

Delray Beach Fire-Rescue celebrates On Friday, December 19, 2014, Delray Beach Fire-Rescue held a ceremony to celebrate the graduation of two recruit classes, the promotion of six firefighters, and annual awards for several firefighters. Over the past four months, DBFR has hired 15 new firefighters. These recruits were trained through two five week recruit academies. The second of these academies ended, marking the perfect time for a graduation celebration. In addition to the graduationdceremony, the Department celebrated the firefighters, who were promoted in 2014. These firefighters include Captain Ryan Walker, Captain Brian Fiorey, Driver/Engineer Travis Franco, Driver/Engineer Brian Pollack, Driver/Engineer Mark Szrejter, and Driver/Engineer Jon Woertz.

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This celebration also served as DBFR’s award ceremony for the past year. These awards include unit citations for 27 firefighters, comprising awards for significant vehicle extrications, extraordinary rescue situations, and challenging fire incidents. During the ceremony, Fire Chief Danielle Connor awarded the Chief’s Achievement Award to Assistant Chief Victor Williams for his educational accomplishments during the past year. She also recognized Volunteer Arnie Fine for his long tenure and significant contribution to the operation of the fire department. - KEVIN SAXTON

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FLORIDA

ALESHA ARNOLD

Chiefland Christmas Festival Levy County Commissioners and the Department of Public Safety (LCDPS) was invited to participated in this year’s Chiefland Christmas Festival and Parade on Saturday, December 13, 2014. LCDPS members provided information to the public and displayed one of the transport units at the event. At the event, the public was provided an opportunity to meet some of the LCDPS staff and received information about Holiday safety and fire prevention. Several members of the local community stopped by to meet the crew and ask questions about the services LCDPS offers. Commissioners handed out candy to kids along the parade route.

CHARLIE ROBBINS

Lehigh Acres fatal house fire LAFD "C" shift apparatus were en route to a possible commercial building fire on Sunniland Boulevard at 3:00 p.m. on January 7th, when calls started coming into Lee Control for a possible house fire at 1101 Westminster Street West. Engine 102 was the closest engine to the house fire call, but they were several miles away and this fire is less than one mile from Station 102. They turned around and responded back toward the house fire and called smoke showing from several miles away. They were delayed by roughly six min-

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utes. The fire had taken total control of the left apartment of a one story duplex. Bystanders were yelling that a male was possibly inside the structure, and Lieutenant Midea and his two crew members stretched a hand line to the front of the building. They hand jacked five inch line to a nearby hydrant while the lieutenant began forcing the front door. Lieutenant Midea and another

firefighter, while awaiting second due Truck 104 and unable to enter the structure due to limited manpower, elected to knock down the heavy fire through the front window. Truck 104 arrived a minute later and entry was made into the structure, where a deceased 50 year old male was located and removed from the structure. The cause of the fire was not known at the time of this writing and the Florida State Fire Marshal is investigating. - CHARLIE ROBBINS

Lehigh Acres pickup versus firehouse

ALESHA ARNOLD

Levy County Commissioners and DPS in Inglis Christmas Parade Celebrating the holidays, Levy County Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Public Safety (LCDPS) participated in the 2014 Inglis Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 13, 2014. Commissioners Danny Stevens and Mike Joyner rode alongside a County fire truck and an ambulance, taking time to visit with citizens along the parade route.

At 11:40 a.m. on December 28th, LAFD Station 101 B shift members were in the station when they heard tires screeching outside, a sound they hear quite often at this firehouse due to the large amount of vehicle crashes at the intersection of Joel JUMP TO FILE# Boulevard and East 122814110 10th Street. Upon hearing the noise, Lieutenant Edinger, who was at his desk in his office, had the feeling something was about to happen and he bolted from his chair, making it to the doorway just as pieces of cement and glass exploded through the exterior door and down the hallway in front of him. He exited the office and headed with his crew out the front bay doors to find a Ford Sport Trac, which had rolled several times, had come to rest on the retaining wall in front of their station. Several child seats and strollers were strewn about the crash scene and naturally they immediately thought this was going to be a bad one.

CHARLIE ROBBINS

Kids strollers and car seat strewn about the crash scene.

Almost immediately the driver of the truck started pushing his daughter out the driver's side door and he followed. The little girl sustained no apparent injures and the Father sustained minor injuries. Both were transported to the hospital by LAFD ambulance. Fireﬁghters from Station 102 arrived minutes later along with acting Battalion Chief Matt Kreft and assisted Engine 101's crew in stabilizing the truck and controlling a

small ﬂuid spill. It was learned awhile later through witness interviews by FHP that the driver had been seen driving erratically and at a high rate of speed for several miles in an attempt to cut off another vehicle in some type of road rage incident and that he was trying to force the vehicle off the roadway when he lost control of his truck and crashed. - CHARLIE ROBBINS

February, 2015

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FLORIDA

AL LOBETO

Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue 2014 Fireﬁghter of the Year Ryan S. French

Cedar Hammock award recipients JUSTIN THALGOTT

Sumter County battles semi fire At 5:01 p.m. on the evening of December 27, 2014, Sumter County Fire & EMS was dispatched to a semi fire at the TA Truck Stop in Wildwood on SR44. All units in the north battalion were involved with the firefighting operations. First units on scene found one semi tractor trailer fully involved with fire, there were two other semi trucks, one on each side in close proximity as exposures.

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Units quickly began suppression operations and were able to safely bring the fire under control. There was minimal damage to the trailer of the closest semi, but both exposed trucks were operational. The diesel tanks of the involved semi did rupture causing diesel to be released, crews were

able to construct a dam to block any significant contamination into the storm drain. The State Fire Marshal’s office did send personnel to investigate the scene. A mitigation clean up company also responded to clean up the spilled diesel fuel. The cause of the fire is believed to be a malfunctioning reefer unit on the involved semi. - JUSTIN THALGOTT

Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue is pleased to announce the recipients of awards for 2014. The announcements were made by Fire Chief Jeffrey S. Hoyle at the annual employee recognition dinner held on December 20, 2014. Chief Hoyle selected the exceptional duty award, which went to Captain Ed Shumaker. Captain Shumaker has served Cedar Hammock and the fire service with “pride, commitment, and courage” for 30 years. He will retire in June, 2015. Staff Employee of the Year went to Captain Nick Herlihy for his continued outstanding work in developing exceptional training for the entire department. Fire Officer of the Year was presented to Battalion Chief Sam Collier for his leadership and support of his B Shift Battalion, Cedar Ham-

ALESHA ARNOLD

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mock Fire Rescue, and the Fire Service for over 30 years. Firefighter of the Year went to Ryan S. French of A Shift. Ryan was selected from a group of two other Firefighters, A.J. Dudley of B Shift and Tim Pillsbury of C Shift. Firefighter French was also nominated for the Veterans of Foreign Wars 2014 Gold Medal Awards for Public Servants. The winner will be announced in January. Fire Commissioner Dee Bennett was honored for her leadership as Chair of Cedar Hammock Board of Fire Commissioners during fiscal years 2013 and 2014. - ALEXANDER LOBETO

ASHLEY LOPEZ

MVA extrication in Levy County Ocala’s everyday heroes At 12:15 p.m. on Sunday, January 4, 2015, the Levy County 911 Communications Center received a call reporting a motor vehicle accident involving a rollover with entrapment of the vehicle’s driver on State Road 121. Levy County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce, Levy County Department of Public Safety ALS100, Squad 11 (Morriston), Rescue 10 (Williston), and multiple volunteers, responded with Florida Highway Patrol as well as mutual aid from Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR) Technical Team, Rescue 22 (Rainbow Springs- Dunnellon),

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and District 4 Captain, Williston Fire Department, and Rainbow Lakes Volunteer Fire Department. Units arrived on scene to a single vehicle on its roof. The car was resting, unstable, on top of a power pole that was broken in half. Members worked together to quickly stabilize the vehicle and assess all occupants of the vehicle. Air support was requested. The vehicle was stabilized using

tools. Once the vehicle was stabilized, crew members gained access to the driver of the vehicle and assessed his injuries. The patient’s legs were pinned between the ﬂoor and dash of the small car. Crews used hydraulic powered extrication tools and another newly purchased tool, cordless reciprocating saws, to free the patient from the wreckage. The driver was transported via ShandsCair and one passenger was transported by LCDPS ground unit to UF Shands. - ALESHA ARNOLD

Ocala, FL. Laughter and excitement filled the aisles at WalMart on SW 19th Avenue Road as Ocala Fire Rescue firefighters and some of their youngest friends made their way through a shopping extravaganza. The treat was possible thanks to Cathy’s Kids a program, started by Cathy Fender and carried forward by IAFF’s Local #2135, dedicated to providing relief to those in need through a shopping experience that caters directly to the children. Sponsors like Bagelicious, Ocala Volkswagen, Pasteur Sports, Accident Cleaners, and Wal-Mart,

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among others made the shopping portion possible while others, like Papa John’s transformed the experience into an event with a donation of pizza, drinks, and even an appearance by “Slice”, their mascot. Twenty five children from Wyomena Elementary School gave twenty five firefighters, and everyone present, a morning to remember. - ASHLEY LOPEZ

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ALABAMA

Arab home destroyed by overnight fire Arab, AL. Firefighters from Arab City, 4C-VFD, Union Grove and Georgia Mountain responded to an overnight fire that destroyed an Arab home on the morning of December 29th. Marshall County 911 received a call from the home owner at 3:16 a.m. reporting a fire in the garage. The family had been awakened by smoke detectors that had activated. Occupants reported smoke on the second floor of the home before they evacuated. Arab Engine 1 arrived to find a fire inside the garage with smoke coming from the roof. After the initial knock down of the fire in the garage, it was de-

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termined the fire had extended into the attic. Approximately 24 firefighters responded with six engines, one ladder and one ambulance. They were on the scene for almost five hours. The home sustained heavy damage. The family does have insurance. No one was injured in the blaze which remains under investigation by Arab Fire Department. - RICKY PHILLIPS

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Arab wreck sends two drivers to local hospital Arab, AL. Emergency responders in Arab responded to a two car wreck on Cullman Road near the Highway JUMP TO FILE # 231 overpass 011115110 bridge. The call to M a r s h a l l County 911 was made just after

12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2015. On arrival ﬁreﬁghters found two drives with minor injuries. One car went off the roadway during the crash. Samaritan EMS transported the two drivers to Marshall Medical Center North while Arab Police investigated. - RICKY PHILLIPS

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