F L ORIDA FIRECHIEF S ’ ASSOCIATION
Florida Fire Service is the monthly publication of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, provided to Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association (FFCA) members, by the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association.
Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association
221 Pinewood Drive Tallahassee, FL 32303
Phone: (850) 900-5180
Email: info@ffca.org • www.ffca.org
FFCA Staff
Ngoc Huynh- Executive Director
Denise Holley - Office Manager
Greta Hall - Marketing Communications Manager
FFCA Board of Directors
Michael Choate - President
Trip Barrs - 1st Vice President
Ryan H. Crawford - 2nd Vice President
Harold Theus - Immediate Past President
Carlos Aviles - Secretary/Treasurer
Jeff Wagner - Northwest Region Director
Brady Rigdon - Northeast Region Director
Michael Johansmeyer - East Central Region Director
Chantal Botting - Southeast Region Director
Ian Kemp - West Central Region Director
Gregory DeWitt - Southwest Region Director
Ngoc Huynh- Executive Director
Cindy Morgan - Foundation Chair
Jeffrey Money - Senior Member
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Florida Fire Service
August 2024, Volume 32, Number 8 USPS # 016-759
Periodical postage paid in Daytona Beach, Florida, and additional post offices.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Florida Fire Service, 221 Pinewood Drive Tallahassee, FL 32303. Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of the officers or the members of FFCA. Copyright 2024 by the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced without written permission.
FROM THE SECTIONS
Operation Summer Heat: Large Scale, Multi-Agency Drill .
.10 Future Lifeguards for Sarasota County .
Oviedo Hosts the Emergency Services Leadership Institute Class . . . . .14 Brevard County Hosts LSU NCBRT Sampling Course
Orange County Water Rescue
World’s Largest Swimming Lesson .22 Empowering the Future: St. Petersburg All-Girls Fire Camp . .24 Explosion at Classic Laundromat Injures Four in Ocala
.26 Palm Coast Announces Wave of Promotions
Pinellas Park Hosts a Summer Day Camp for Girls
Tallahassee Fire Department Responds to EV Fire .........30 In brief . . . news from around the
HCFR Volunteer Firefighter in Right Place, Right Time
AsI write this article, I am filled with immense pride, gratitude, and a profound sense of responsibility having just been sworn in as your President of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association. As your president, I am incredibly proud to serve this association. Seeing the enthusiasm and dedication of our members reinforces my belief in the importance of our collective mission.
This presidency to me, is not just about this title; it’s about making a difference. It’s about being there for this board and for all of you, it’s about advocating for all of your needs, and trying my very best by ensuring we have the tools needed to excel. It’s about fostering a culture of excellence, where every FFCA member feels valued and empowered to ser ve alongside of us.
Look, I’m not a complicated guy… those closest to me know this well. I set my mind to do something, I see it through! My mind is always on the end game. I can almost always
see it in my head. I’ve always wanted to be a better person, than a better chief. This is who I am to the core.
Two years ago, when I ran for the position of second vice president, I ran on two main ideas or my “platform” if you will… those were Involvement or membership and Relationships… So, my challenge to the fire chiefs in our association is this, help us. Get your staff involved with this association and help us not only bolster our subject matter expertise in certain sections or committees, but help the FFCA to grow I’m referencing your fire marshal’s, training chiefs, PIO’s, EVT’s, haz-mat folks, cadets etc. Get them involved with the FFCA. We need you! We need your department wide participation in order to provide trainings and conferences like we just experienced.
The success of our Executive Development Conference (EDC) held in Tampa was a testament to the strength and dedication of
Michael J. Choate, Fire Chief FFCA President
our membership. As mentioned, your active participation and commitment is the very link in which our association thrives. It is through your engagement that we can organize such impactful events and continue to foster professional growth and development in the Florida fire service.
A key highlight of the conference was the impressive roster of speakers. Leaders and experts from diverse backgrounds shared their insights and experiences, providing all of us with invaluable knowledge and inspiration. The variety and depth of the topics covered ensured that there was something of value for everyone, from our seasoned fire chiefs to all of our emerging leaders.
To my fellow fire chiefs and all members of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, I promise to lead with transparency, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to our mission. Together, we will build upon the strong foundation laid by those fire chiefs that came before us and create a brighter, safer future for our beloved fire service.
Thank you to Immediate Past President Harold Theus for your leadership and guidance. Thank you to the FFCA Executive Director Ngoc Huynh and the board of directors for coming alongside an old fire chief like me. Thank you for your boldness and candor concerning all issues that we have faced and any challenges that may lie ahead. This association depends on all of us.
Thank you once again for this incredible honor. Thank you for your continued support and for making our summer conference a remarkable success. I look forward to serving you as the President of the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association and to working alongside each of you to advance the FFCA and the Florida fire service.
I hope to see you all at the upcoming Safety and Health Conference in October located at the Embassy Suites in Lake Buena Vista. Book your room now!
Stay safe, with others in mind.
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Hey God! Are You Listening?
By Rick Spence
There have been many times I have prayed to God and felt like He did not hear my prayer or chose not to answer it the way I wanted. Once I was older, I realized that I was glad that God did not answer some of my prayers, like getting a new Corvette or going out with a particular girl (before I met my wife). It took me a long time before I came to learn that God was not some type of magic genie that grants us whatever we wish. I came to learn that even though we may not outwardly see it, God is working behind the scenes in our prayers. I prayed hard for God to heal my parents from their illnesses, that did not happen. What I saw was that God had surrounded me for several weeks with many people who came around me and my family, and simply loved on us. It did not bring my parents back, but it certainly eased the pain we were feeling.
At another time in my life, I was disappointed when I was unable to continue in my classes in zoology, that would have led me to become a forest ranger.I prayed diligently to have a better understanding of the terms and physiology of plants and animals, but it just did not come. Looking back, I would have gone down a different path, and I most likely would not have landed in the fire service. The thing I came to realize was that God may not have answered my prayer the way I wanted Him to, but it was answered in a way which was often better than what I imagined.
Often the answer to prayers comes in the form of other people. It is very likely that each of us can be the answer to someone else’s prayer. There may be a single mother in our office that is struggling to care for a sick child that could use a few words of
encouragement and grocery store gift card. The homeless veteran holding a ‘will work for food’ sign could benefit from a combo meal from us when we are in a drive thru. The homeless shelter or food bank in our community could benefit from some extra food or clothes that we have in our house. Your elderly neighbor could benefit from just spending a little time with them or being invited over for lunch or dinner. We could be an answer to some of the unfortunate incidents or injustices in our community. God has made people in general and firefighters in particular to come alongside people in some of their darkest times.
We should never stop praying to God for our needs, but also the needs and concerns of our family, friends, our community and our nation. It is likely that God may answer some of our prayers with us being the answer. The wars in Europe and the middle east may continue, and innocent people are going to be harmed throughout the world. These diabolical events have been taking place since the beginning of time and are unlikely to stop anytime soon. We cannot solve all the world’s problems and injustices and meet the needs of everyone who is struggling. But we can be help with some people’s injustices and misfortune. We must realize that before we can tackle the major issues in our community and our nation, we must tackle the smaller issues that we witness firsthand and see on a regular basis. Once we are able to overcome the simple problems, then the major problems might not seem so insurmountable.
Like world peace. Phillippians 4:6,7 “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray.
Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.”
The Message.
Rick Spence retired as Assistant Chief from the Reedy Creek Fire Department after 30 years. Heis currently the Chaplain for the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association, Central Florida Fire Chiefs’ Association,Reedy Creek Fire Department, Lake County Fire Department, Clermont Fire Department, Maitland Fire Department, and the Florida Professional Firefighters. He serves as Sergeant of Arms for the Florida Professional Firefighters and International Association of Firefighters.He was selected Florida Professional Firefighter of the Year in 2018.He has been married to his wife Alecia for over 30 years.
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Operation Summer Heat: Large Scale, Multi-Agency Drill
By Victoria Padovan, MA, Communications Assistant, Orange County Fire Rescue
On Tuesday, July 30, 2024, Orange County Fire Rescue conducted a fullscale emergency preparedness exercise involving fire rescue and local law enforcement. The scenario took place at the Orange County Multicultural Center, where crews faced a simulated active shooter who also set fire to the building. More than 300 participants were involved and made it a successful training. This large-scale training exercise is an essential part of ensuring our public safety community is ready to respond in the event of a real emergency.
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Future Lifeguards for Sarasota County
BySara Nealeigh, Media Relations Officer, Sarasota County Emergency Services
Nineteen campers dove into Sarasota County Junior Lifeguard camp from June 17- 21, on the world-famous Siesta Beach. Throughout the week-long camp, children ages 9-17 were mentored by Sarasota County Fire Department lifeguards on water safety, rescue techniques, rescue paddling, CPR and how to identify marine life.
Sarasota County Fire Department Lifeguard Sage Lyons credits her current career on the beach to the early start she got as a camper Years later, she is now an instructor, teaching attendees with the same passion she has for beach safety. Lyons is one of seven full-time lifeguards whose careers were launched by the camp.
“I’ve been involved with lifeguard camp since I was 8 years old and now, as an actual lifeguard, I have more knowledge being on the lifeguard stand and helping the public stay safe,” said Lyons.
Lyons and her fellow lifeguard instructors lead the campers through the same scenarios
they train for themselves, giving the children the chance to experience a variety of scenarios in the Gulf of Mexico.
“It’s building confidence in the water,” said Sarasota County Lifeguard Lieutenant Richard Lender “Every day is a different condition in the water, we give them a full week of seeing what the water is like every day.”
Lender has been a beach lifeguard for 25 years, nearly 19 of which with Sarasota County and has been part of the camp for 15 years.
“We’re trying to teach these kids that it’s an opportunity to grow as a person, demonstrate what it’s like to help the community and simulate the job of a lifeguard by helping people day-to-day in different situations. We’re teaching them the understanding of water conditions, the safety of the water, the hazards of the water and all the different conditions. I love this job,” said Lender.
Instructors hope that the children's experience at the camp will promote the camp and a potential career as a lifeguard and spread safety information to their peers and family members.
Oviedo Hosts the Emergency Services Leadership Institute Class
By Lisa McDonald, Communications Manager, City of Oviedo
In July, the City of Oviedo hosted the Emergency Services Leadership Institute (ESLI) class at the Cultural Center located in the heart of the city. The module covered many topics for command staff, chief officers and those preparing to take on leadership roles. Attendees ranged from different sizes of departments and different municipalities throughout the state.
ESLI currently consists of six required modules and one elective. Upon completion of all seven modules, it qualifies for equivalency with the Florida State Fire College for certain courses towards Fire Officer III and Fire Officer IV certifications. This educational program is organized by the Florida Fire Chiefs’ Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) and charitable organization focused on educational opportunities for the Florida fire service through training and
scholarships to address professional development needs. Oviedo Fire Department leaders are taking part in the courses as well.
The ESLI program is dedicated to cultivating the skills and knowledge necessary for effective leadership in fire and emergency services. The July module, Personal Qualities, Leadership and the Organization, was a two-day class that detailed the importance of organizational design and development.
Module 2 of ESLI’s curriculum focuses on the critical aspects of organizational design and development, emphasizing the importance of a well-structured and clearly defined Mission, Vision, and Value Statement.
These messages included design and development, leadership, strategic planning, communication, rewards and incentives, career and succession development, varying leadership styles, change management and ethics and technology and education.
Each of these topics was timely to help organizations foster positive work environments, keep up with ever-changing technology, and serve as a roadmap to navigate advancements in the job. The class also stressed strategic planning, which helps address challenges in emergency services.
The topics that were covered include:
•Organizational Design and Development
• Mission, Vision, and Values
•Supervision, Management, and Leadership Defined Strategic Planning
•The Transition from ‘Buddy’ to ‘Boss’
•Transformational vs. Transactional Leaders
•Contemporary Issues in the Fire Service
•Team Design and Facilitation
• The Importance of Effective Inter-Organizational Communication
•Reward and Incentive Programs
•Employee Career Development
• Succession Development
•Leadership and Ethics
•Dynamics of Change Management
• The Impact of New Technology on the Workforce
• The Impact of Education and Academic Achievement
• The Impact of Employee Fitness and Wellness Programs
The first of four modules of the Seminole County series was held and hosted by the City of Oviedo, with the Emergency Management module hosted at the Seminole County Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
The two other modules were hosted by the City of Lake Mar y.We are grateful to have hosted this invaluable program and look forward to future opportunities to welcome our fellow fire service professionals to the City of Oviedo.
Fire Apparatus Crash Reduction
Fire apparatus crashes are a big problem in the fire service. As each year passes, we see a trend of increasing incidents resulting in property damage, injuries and deaths. Each state has laws regulating emergency vehicle operations, and nationally accepted standards lay out requirements for driver training and apparatus safety
And still, we have crashes. We really need to stop crashing fire trucks!
In this series, we’ll review apparatus crashes, look at related injuries and deaths, and explore prevention measures. We’ll examine policy development and enforcement, training program components, and how fire service culture relates to apparatus crashes. Finally, we’ll provide recommendations to improve safety within your agency while providing an effective and efficient service to your community.
Fire Apparatus Crash Data
Statistics compiled by the U.S. Fire Administration show about 27% of firefighter line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) are vehiclerelated.[1] Sadly, many of these were preventable. In the fire service, we tend to have an inward focus when it comes to injuries and deaths. We are inherently aware of the dangers we face — and we take them seriously — but our lives aren’t the only ones at risk on the road.
When we turn the focus outward, we see that fire apparatus crashes kill civilians more often
By Greg Rogers
than they kill firefighters. Data collected by the National Safety Council (NSC) show 67% of fire apparatus crash-related fatalities were occupants of other vehicles and 14.5% were pedestrians, bicyclists or others outside of vehicles.[2] In contrast, occupants of fire apparatus accounted for 20% of fatalities, so firefighters are four times more likely to kill citizens with their trucks than they are to kill themselves or other firefighters.
In a business where our mission is to save lives and property, this irony is troubling. There are few things firefighters do that put the public at risk, but responding to calls is one of them.
Every Call Represents Risk
On average, according to 2022 NFIRS data, fire departments in the U.S. respond on over 80,000 runs per day.[3] That’s 80,000 times a day where at least one fire department vehicle departs a fire station and travels down the road. Every time you leave the station, you are exposed to (and exposing others to) the risk of collision.
The fire service prides itself on risk management, and rightfully so. Everything we do in this business relates to risk assessment and risk management. In the past several decades, the culture has evolved to become more risk aware, and this has led to positive change. Data from the NFPA indicates that on-duty firefighter deaths have been on a downward trend for the past 45 years.[4] Our culture puts great emphasis on firefighter health and safety, and
we continue to make improvements in areas such as incident management, risk assessment, and physical and mental health and wellness.
But when it comes to managing risk related to vehicle operations, we fall short. This is likely due to several factors including response times, adrenaline, culture and insufficient training.
Lives in the Balance
Consider this risk assessment. You are dispatched to an EMS call for troubled breathing. The patient is reported to be alert and oriented but is short of breath after doing some yard work. As you respond to the call, you may pass hundreds of cars, each with at least one person inside. You travel through several intersections where motorists must stop and yield to your vehicle.
Each one of those vehicle encounters represents a risk of crash and related injury. How many people are we willing to put at risk to help one person? How can we reduce this risk while still arriving quickly to help the patient?
This scenario is one that plays out thousands of times a day, all over the country. These risks must be managed effectively to reduce loss of life both to the patients and the public.
Normalizing Emergencies
The more you drive or ride in an emergency vehicle, the less “emergent” things seem. This is the case with many things in public safety, as we tend to normalize situations and experiences that the general population sees as dangerous.
Consider your own physiological changes when the bell rings. If you are new to this job, the alert probably startles you a bit and anxiety heightens your risk awareness to protect you. Your heart rate increases along with your blood pressure. You are acutely aware of the severity of the situation you are responding to.
As time goes on, though, your response to these alerts softens. Emergencies become normalized for first responders and in many ways, that is a good thing. If we were startled into high-alert mode every time a call came in, we’d be worn out long before we were ready to hang up our helmets. On the other hand, this normalization of emergencies can soften us to the point of complacency where we are less concerned about risk. Every time you climb into that rig and roll down Main Street with lights and sirens, you become more confident in your abilities. And every time you take unnecessary risks and get away with it, your actions are rewarded, and your complacency is reinforced.
Other Drivers’ Response
You are around fire apparatus all the time, so their presence is routine for you. Lights and sirens are normal for you. You’re used to them. However, average citizens rarely encounter a fire truck and when they do, their responses can be hazardous.
For many people, the requirement to yield safely to emergency vehicles is mostly hypothetical — a question on the driver’s license test and little more. When they encounter your fire apparatus, they have mere seconds to recall that test question and come up with the correct behavior. In short, members of the public are sometimes startled when they see us on the road with them and we need to plan for that.
Licensing and Training Requirements
The hard truth is that human behavior is a factor in almost all apparatus crashes. Fire truck operators often drive faster than they should, brake harder than they should, and take corners more quickly than they should. In addition to those things, driver inexperience and insufficient training are factors that can affect vehicle control.
Since 2022, all prospective commercial drivers have been required to attend entry-level driver training (ELDT) that complies with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations prior to applying for a license. This training must follow an approved curriculum and ensures prospective drivers receive adequate baseline training before becoming licensed. Part of this training includes instruction on vehicle dynamics, weight distribution, vehicle systems and other factors that relate to larger vehicles. The program was
put into place to increase driver proficiency and reduce crashes.
The thing is, a fire apparatus is not classified as a “commercial vehicle” in most places in the United States, and firefighters are not required by federal law to hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL). Some states require specific training for fire apparatus operators while others recommend it through best practice.
Regardless of state requirements, NFPA 1010 is the gold standard for firefighter training, including apparatus operator training. This standard lays out job performance requirements (JPRs) for apparatus operators and overlaps with federal CDL requirements where appropriate. Agencies should not only have emergency response policies in place but should also have a training program based on both NFPA 1010 and federal CDL training requirements. A comprehensive training program can improve apparatus operator competency, even for experienced members.
Apparatus Driver Error
For accidents that occur during emergency responses, speed and improper actions at controlled intersections are frequently factors, as is driver error Not all states require emergency vehicles to come to a complete stop at controlled intersections, but NFPA 1451 does. After all, intersections are the most likely place for crashes to occur
This is the case for all crashes, but the risk is amplified when responding to emergencies because apparatus operators can proceed against a red traffic signal. Stopping at an intersection before proceeding against a signal or stop sign only costs seconds in response time but can save lives.
Distracted Apparatus Drivers
Things can happen fast on the way to a call and there’s a lot going on inside the cab. There is noise from the siren and horns, important information is coming across the radio, and the crew is thinking about their initial on-scene actions. The officer may be giving orders or laying out the tactical plan to the crew. For the engineer, it can be difficult to isolate yourself from these distractions and focus on driving because your responsibility doesn’t end when you set that parking brake. You’re thinking about things like apparatus placement, water supply and everything else you need to do to support the operation. But with all of this going on inside the cab, the engineer must stay focused on what’s going on outside of it. A momentary lapse in awareness or judgement can lead to a crash, potentially causing injury or death and rendering your rig and crew useless. The company officer can help reduce distractions for the driver by providing
important information such as the next turn, nearest hydrant, and incident-specific details like “It’s the third house on the right,” or “Engine 3 is going to beat us in, so you’ll be water supply.” This can clear up the engineer’s mind so they can focus on safe operation of the vehicle.
Making Code 3 Response Safer
Apparatus crashes are frequent and can be tragic. Responding to emergencies is a core mandate of fire department operations and there are several factors that contribute to apparatus crashes. In upcoming articles, we will discuss these factors and outline a plan to help reduce apparatus-related incidents in your department. These incidents are often preventable through awareness, training and policy compliance. Remember, we can’t help anybody if we don’t get to them.
Notes
1.Excluding 2020-2021 due to COVID data, which is irrelevant here. This includes both “vehicle collision” and “struck by.”
2. 2010-2022 stats on Emergency VehiclesInjury Facts (nsc.org):
•25 (10.3%) Emergency vehicle operator
• 20 (8.3%) Emergency vehicle passenger
•162 (66.9%) Other vehicle occupant
•35 (14.5%) Pedestrian, bicyclist, other outside of vehicle
3. NFIRS data refers to “runs or responses” which can include multiple responses to the same incident, particularly if more than one department responds. Also, only 77% of departments report data to NFIRS, as it is not mandatory.
4. Technically, 1977-2022. See Fatal Firefighter Injuries in the United States, NFPA: https://www.nfpa.org/education-andresearch/research/nfpa-research/fire-statisticalreports/fatal-firefighter-injuries
Greg Rogers is a Content Developer for Lexipol with over two decades of experience in fire and emergency services. He is a retired Battalion Chief from the Ridge Road Fire District in Greece, New York, where he developed and implemented programs that improved service delivery and firefighter safety. He is also a nationally certified fire instructor with experience in emergency vehicle operations, engine company operations, and building construction. In addition to his fire service experience, Greg has a background in maritime search and rescue and law enforcement with the U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Reserve. Chief Rogers holds a degree in Fire Protection and has studied at The National Fire Academy as well as the U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Academy.
Brevard County Hosts LSU NCBRT Sampling Course
By Lisa Smith, Office of EMS, Brevard County Fire Rescue
During the week of July 16-18, 2024, Louisiana State University instructors Don Birou (Lead), Edward Tomaszewski, Jamey Baker, Kevin Togami, and Vincent Doherty; conducted a Public Safety Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and high yield Explosives (CBRNE) Response - Sampling Techniques and Guidelines course at the Brevard County Fire Rescue Center, in Rockledge, FL. Twenty HazMat Technicians from BCFR’s Special Operations Team took part in the DHS/FEMA certified course that were available at no cost to the organization. This three-day, eight-hour course focused on specific fundamentals and skills associated with an emergency response to a WMD incident, in which instructors taught hands-on scenarios that allowed students to
per form proper sampling techniques with an emphasis on collecting forensically valid samples to be safely transported to a laboratory for testing. The process is consistent with the FBI's 12-step process for managing a crime scene, including those involving a WMD.
Orange County Water Rescue Drill
ByDavid Palomino, Assistant Public Information Officer, Orange County Fire Rescue Department
In July, Orange County Fire Rescue began a multi-company drill focused on water rescue operations. The department-wide training involves simulated rescue scenarios and will bring together various units and personnel to hone their skills in responding to water-based emergencies with emphasis on new marine tandem units, side scan sonar technology, water rescue qualifications, command and control protocols, and treatment considerations for water rescue patients.
“As an all-hazards fire department, Orange County Fire Rescue is equipped and trained to respond to a variety of emergencies. The frequency of flooding and water-rescue incidents in Central Florida continues to trend upward. This Multi-Company Drill demonstrates the department’s commitment to all types of emergency response, including water rescue operations,” said Lt. Brandon Allen, who oversees the Orange County Fire Rescue dive team and is one of the lead instructors for the training.
Water rescue qualifications are also a key focus of the drill, with personnel undergoing rigorous training and testing to ensure their proficiency in this critical area. The exercise will serve as an opportunity for firefighters to demonstrate their skills in a realistic and
challenging environment.
Command and control protocols will also be reviewed during the drill, with incident commanders and their teams working to coordinate responses and manage resources effectively. This aspect of the exercise aims to ensure seamless communication and strategic decision-making in the face of complex water rescue incidents.
“We have everything from our boats to a submerged vehicle scenario that everyone will run through. We also a dive component to it, and while we are actually out here on the lake, we have personnel running side scan and hummingbird sonar capabilities where they can actually see things underwater,” said Orange County Firefighter Antonio Cobielles.
These state-of-the-art vessels are designed to enhance the department’s water rescue capabilities, and their performance will be closely evaluated during the exercise.
Side scan sonar technology will also be employed throughout the drill to locate and recover submerged objects, demonstrating its potential in expediting search and rescue operations. This advanced equipment enables firefighters to quickly survey underwater areas, pinpointing potential hazards and expediting recovery efforts.
Another aspect of the training is EMS for water rescue patients, with medical personnel on hand to provide care and stabilization to simulated patients. This component of the drill will highlight the importance of prompt and appropriate medical attention in ensuring positive outcomes for individuals rescued from water-based emergencies.
“Being able to incorporate the whole entire department in on the training, make sure they know what we’re doing as divers helps us just make response operationally quicker and smoother. When we’re able to do that, it ultimately has a better outcome for the citizens,” said Antonio Cobielles.
The training will continue through September.
World’s Largest Swimming Lesson
ByJohn Ringleb, Assistant Fire Chief, Chief of EMS Operations, PIO, Palm Bay Fire Rescue
On June 20, Palm Bay Fire Rescue participated in the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson (WLSL) at the Palm Bay Aquatics Center Since its inception, over 383,000 children and adults across 53 countries on six continents have taken part in WLSL. This year, Palm Bay joined this global initiative for water and swim safety Palm Bay Fire Rescue firefighters teamed up with City of Palm Bay lifeguards, Aquatics Center Supervisor Katherine Steward, and local swim safety advocate Brooke Mitchell to educate the community on water safety. Many adults and children from the community attended the event. Children had the opportunity to visit six stations to learn basic swim safety techniques and swim with a firefighter. At the fifth station, each child signed a safety swim pledge before visiting the final station, where
water safety brochures were provided to parents and goodies to the children. Those in attendance were able to observe a water rescue and CPR demonstration. Our efforts were supported by the mayor, city officials, and local vendors, making this day a resounding success. Brian
Empowering the Future: St. Petersburg Fire Rescue First All-Girls Fire Camp
By Ashlie Handy, Public Information Officer, St. Petersburg Fire Rescue
“Twelve sparks…. together we ignite!”
The powerful chant boomed from the firstfloor classroom of St. Petersburg Fire Rescue’s downtown headquarters. It was a sunny July morning and the last day of the inaugural all-girls fire camp. Twelve young woman, aged 14 to 16, stood shoulder to shoulder in the same classroom where they started their journey only three days earlier. Today, they exude confidence. These twelve sparks would soon become the first St. Petersburg Fire Rescue’s Camp Ignite graduates.
This groundbreaking initiative was designed to engage, encourage, and empower teenage girls by introducing them to the fire service. The department hired its first female firefighters in 1982. This first group of female firefighters went on to ser ve more than 120 years in the department.
“Today, we’re empowering the next generation of female leaders in our community by instilling in them the skills and spirit of firefighting,” said St. Petersburg Fire Rescue Division Chief Keith Watts who oversaw the program.
The pilot program was launched this year in partnership with Pinellas County Urban League as part
of their “EmpowHer” initiative. Lieutenant Nicole Howard designed the program to provide real-life training with hands-on fire and EMS experiences for the campers. Under the careful guidance of experienced firefighters, they learned the basics of rope rescues, mastered the use of extrication equipment, and honed their nozzle operation skills. Each activity was a new challenge, pushing them to their limits and teaching them the importance of teamwork and resilience.
The conclusion of this inaugural program is not the end for these young women. As lifelong members of Camp Ignite, they will continue to receive mentoring and guidance from leadership at St. Petersburg Fire Rescue.
With its local success, SPFR expects Camp Ignite to return next year to provide this experience for more young women in the community.
Explosion at Classic Laundromat Injures Four in Ocala
By Ashley Lopez, Public Information Officer, Ocala Fire Rescue
On July 30, at approximately 6:19 p.m., Ocala Fire Rescue was dispatched to Classic Laundromat at 1423 NE 25th Avenue, after a caller advised of an explosion.
Engines 1, 2, and 5, Ladder 3, Rescues 3 and 5, Tower 1, Battalion Chiefs 11 and 22, and a Safety Officer responded.
Rescue 3 arrived first, finding a single-level commercial structure, housing multiple shops, with smoke and flames coming from the area of the laundromat. Four individuals were injured in the incident, two of them required transportation to the hospital for further medical attention.
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Medics assessed the patients and began administering care to those in need of transport. Firefighters made entry to control the fire impacting the rear of the structure, while rescue crews conducted search and rescue operations to ensure the building was clear of occupants.
Once the fire was extinguished inspectors assessed the building’s structural integrity, deeming the laundromat and seven adjacent shops inaccessible for regular operations.
The incident disrupted traffic along NE 25th Avenue., with diversions set up at NE 14th Street while first responders managed the scene.
Ocala Fire Rescue, Ocala Police Department, Ocala Electric Utility, Ocala Water Resources, Ocala Building Department, Marion County Fire Rescue, and TECO Gas all responded to the scene.
The Deputy Chief and the Prevention Division were also on scene to coordinate efforts.
The State Fire Marshals office and Ocala Fire Rescue Inspectors are investigating the cause of the explosion.
Palm Coast Announces Wave of Promotions
By Lieutenant Patrick J. Juliano, Public Information Officer, Palm Coast Fire Department
The Palm Coast Fire Department is excited to announce a wave of promotions that mark a significant milestone in the organization’s growth.
Chief Kyle Berryhill is pleased to unveil the latest promotions within the department’s ranks, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to enhancing the organization. Among these notable advancements is the elevation of Driver Engineers Jeremy Barton, Leroy Fisher, Michael LaGreca, and Anthony Pedersen to the role of Lieutenant.
Continuing its emphasis on nurturing talent and ensuring a smooth transition of leadership, the fire department has promoted Firefighters Bill Kerek and Tyler Major to driver engineer positions.
In line with its dedication to addressing evolving needs, the Palm Coast Fire Department is thrilled to welcome five new firefighters to its esteemed team. Joseph Cruz, Evyn Insalaco, Kalin Kelly, Jace Sherbert, Joseph Sweeney,Jacob Weaver, and Aaron Welsh have all joined the department’s ranks since February 2024. Their recruitment is a strategic response to the department’s goal of filling vacancies stemming from budgeted expansions in firefighter personnel, as well as recent retirements and promotions.
The newly promoted firefighters were honored in a special ceremony held at the Palm Coast Community Center, where they were proudly pinned by their loved ones. Chief Berryhill highlighted the significance of these advancements, emphasizing how the department’s well-established succession plan, conceived years ago, ensures a seamless transition of leadership.
Palm Coast Mayor David Alfin said, “Maintaining public safety and delivering excellent public service are paramount to Palm Coast’s quality of life. The Palm Coast Fire Department is unwavering in its commitment to residents and visitors, offering unparalleled service. As we recognize the contributions of retiring fire officers and welcome our newly promoted leaders, we also extend our congratulations to the career firefighters who embarked on their journey through our firefighter intern program. Under the guidance of Chief Berryhill, I am confident that each of you will continue to provide outstanding care and fire protection for Palm Coast. Success is only achieved through meticulous
succession planning.”
The fire department upheld its tradition of honoring firefighters for their heroic life-saving efforts. Lieutenant Joseph Fajardo, Lieutenant Patrick Juliano, Lieutenant Junelle Steward, Lieutenant Jason Wagner, Driver Engineers Katelyn Baller, Christopher Cottle, Brandon O’Hara, and Joshua Meeker, along with Firefighter Osvaldo Sene, were recognized with CPR Lifesaving Awards. Fire Chief Berryhill, along with the award recipients, proudly presented the CPR Life Save Award Ribbons. Additionally, Lieutenants Guillermo Arnold and Leroy Fisher were awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for their outstanding service, exemplary coordination, and unwavering dedication to protecting the community during a severe vehicle crash with entrapment and fire, where their rapid response saved a life. Finally,Matanzas High School Junior Logan Pacarro received the Civilian Life Saving Award for his courageous efforts in helping to save a neighbor’s life during a recent house fire.
Pinellas Park Hosts a Summer Day Camp for Girls
BySuzanne Boisvert, Emergency Management Coordinator, Pinellas Park Fire Department
Pinellas Park Fire Department hosted a mini-firefighter camp over the summer for a group of young women from Pace Center for Girls in Pinellas Park. The one-day event took each camper through a series of drills that included an EMS scenario, fire hose operations, protective equipment familiarization, truck operations and most importantly, the value of teamwork. Empowering girls to reach their highest potential is one of the goals at Pace and we were thrilled to showcase the fire service as a potential career goal for these bright young women.
Special thanks to FF/PM Elisa Mello, FF/EMT Shannon Silfies, FF/EMT Sydney Wendel, FF/PM Erin Giblin, FF/EMT Richard Dudley, FF/PM Patrick Murphy, Lt. Chris Huffman, Fire Services Technician Sean Rehse, Deputy Chief Rob Angell, and our PPFD Fire Cadets for helping to make this event a success. Thank you to Denise Martin with Fireground 24 Photography for capturing the day with some great photos. Pace Center for Girls in Pinellas Park provides girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training, and advocacy.
Tallahassee Fire Department Responds to EV Fire
By Travis Walker, Division Chief of Logistics, Tallahassee Fire Department
On August 1, 2024, at 12:51 p.m. the Tallahassee Fire Department (TFD) responded with two units to a reported electric vehicle (EV) fire at a local car dealership. The vehicle caught fire while
plugged into the charging station. There were no exposures involved. TFD has been actively exploring options to combat these type fires. TFD recently had a demo with an EV fire blanket at our Training facility That blanket was still at our facility.
TFD units arrived on scene and found the vehicle with fire coming from the underneath. Possibly the battery itself. Once TFD confirmed that this was an EV fire, the crews on scene inquired if the fire blanket at Training could be utilized. A quick call was made to the sales rep. for permission to, “field test” their product. Permission was granted and the blanket was deployed to the
scene and used to assist in extinguishment efforts. The blanket was left over the vehicle for over 18 hours until the battery cooling process was completed. The picture below is after the blanket was removed.
Palm Coast Fire Department New Hires
By Lieutenant Patrick J. Juliano, Public Information Officer
The Palm Coast Fire Department is proud to announce the hiring of three exceptional Volunteer Firefighter Interns: Evyn Insalaco, Mark Paraskiv, and Zayne Smith. This August, these dedicated individuals transitioned from interns to full-time employment opportunities within our department.
Evyn Insalaco joined our team as a volunteer firefighter early this summer With a strong commitment to public service, Evyn successfully completed the EMT program at Daytona State College of EMS, followed by the Firefighting Program at Daytona State College Firefighter Training Academy. He proudly graduated this past May.
Mark Paraskiv began his journey with the Palm Coast Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter early this year. Like his colleague Evyn, Mark completed both the EMT program at Daytona State College of EMS and the Firefighting Program at Daytona State College Firefighter Training Academy, graduating in May.
Zayne Smith also joined the department as a volunteer firefighter earlier this year. Zayne distinguished himself by completing the EMT and Firefighting Programs at First Coast Technical College, earning his graduation this past July. His successful completion of the State Certification and active participation in the intern program made him an ideal candidate for a full-time position.
The Palm Coast Fire Department remains committed to providing opportunities for growth and career advancement for dedicated individuals. We are excited to have Evyn, Mark, and Zayne continue to serve our community with the highest level of professionalism and dedication.
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Oviedo Receives Life-Saving Door Alarm Donations
By Lisa McDonald, Communications Manager
On August 15, 2024, Chief Michael Woodward of the Oviedo Fire Department received a donation of 600 door/window alarms in hopes of preventing drownings.
Chief Woodward had conversations with Libby Baity, the executive director for the Wesley Seth Foundation, located in Oviedo, about providing door/window alarms for free to residents who may want them. Baity is the grandmother of Wesley Seth, a toddler who drowned at a home daycare outside of the city in 2023. Baity took up the mission to create the foundation in hopes of preventing another family from suffering the same tragedy
The conversations led to Chief Woodward checking statutes to see if the alarms needed to meet the same standards as smoke alarms before the program could kick off. The City created an interest form residents could fill out, providing the number of windows and doors in the back of their homes that lead to a body of water such as a pool, lake, or pond.
Florida leads the country in child drowning deaths, ages 0-9. Children are naturally curious about bodies of water and children with autism are at an even higher risk for unintentional drowning.
The alarms are small and can be placed on windows and doors that children may be able to open. The alarm will activate and alert a parent(s) should a child slip out on their own.
The foundation provided the alarms with installation instructions, materials on steps to prevent drowning, and information about equipment and skills needed to keep children safe. The materials were provided in English and Spanish.
“The safety of our community is our utmost priority,” said Chief Woodward. “This generous donation will help our residents and add another layer of protection to their homes so our kids can be safe.”
Pinellas Park Community Risk Reduction Coordinator
BySuzanne Boisvert, Emergency Management Coordinator
Pinellas Park Fire Department congratulates Molly Gould on her recent promotion from Fire Prevention Specialist to Community Risk Reduction Coordinator (CCRC) in the Fire Prevention Division. This is a new position in the fire department that will focus on planning, organizing and coordinating community education and risk reduction programs and events in our Pinellas Park community for the benefit of the citizens we serve.
Since 2021, Molly has been part of a team of prevention specialists responsible for fire safety inspections, public education, and responding to fire incidents as part of the on-call fire inspector rotation. Prior to joining the fire department, she worked for three years in the City’s Community Development Department. Molly has a BA in Criminology & Psychology, a Masters in Criminal Justice and is a certified State of Florida Fire Safety Inspector 2 and Life Safety Educator 2.
Pinellas Park Deputy Fire Marshal Receives Professional Credentialing
By Suzanne Boisvert, Emergency Management Coordinator
Pinellas Park congratulates Deputy Fire Marshal Chris Astleford on his recent professional designation from the Center for Public Safety Excellence.
The Commission on Professional Credentialing® awarded Chris the professional designation of Fire Marshal following an extensive peer review process. The designation recognizes demonstrated excellence in seven measured components: experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association membership, community involvement, and technical competence. In receiving this designation, Chris becomes one of only 253 credentialed fire marshals worldwide.
Chris has been with PPFD since 2016 and was promoted to Deputy Fire Marshal in 2023. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Administration/Fire Investigation and a Master’s degree in Fire Executive Leadership/Emergency Services Management. In 2018, Chris was awarded Professional Services Employee of the Year for the City of Pinellas Park for his extraordinary efforts and going above and beyond the call of duty for the city.
Congratulations on your most recent accomplishment, Chris!
Palm Coast Presents Civilian Life Saving Award
On August 6, 2024, Logan Pacarro, a junior at Matanzas High School, was at his residence on Burning Bush Drive when he noticed something alarming. While in his room, he saw that the house behind his on Burning Ember Lane was engulfed in flames. Thinking quickly, Logan ran to his mother, Crystal, urging her to call 911. As he made his way to the backyard, he heard the desperate screams of his neighbor, who was trapped by the fire.
Without a moment’s hesitation, Logan set up a ladder over his fence and rushed to his neighbor’s aid. His swift actions brought the trapped individual to safety, saving a life.
Forhis heroic and selfless actions, Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill presented Logan Pacarro with the Civilian Life Saving Award, recognizing his bravery and quick thinking in a time of crisis.
Deputy Fire Chief Michael Hartley Retires after more than 30 years of Service to Sarasota County
By
Sara Nealeigh, Media Relations Officer
Deputy Fire Chief Michael Hartley of the Sarasota County Fire Department dedicated 34 years of exemplary service to the Sarasota County community. Throughout his career, Chief Hartley demonstrated unwavering devotion to public service, advancing through the ranks with notable promotions to Assistant Chief of Fire Operations and Deputy Chief of Operations. In 2022, he also served as the interim Fire Chief. Chief Hartley has been a mentor and inspiration to many local firefighters. Congratulations, Chief Hartley, on your well-deserved retirement, and best wishes for your future endeavors.
EMS Exemplary Performance Awards
ByTrip Barrs, Fire Chief/Assistant City Manager
At a recent City Commission meeting, the Treasure Island City Commission and Pinellas County EMS medical director recognized Lt/EMT Joe White, Lt/Paramedic Steven Rowland, FF/Paramedic Jordan Dahlstrom and FF/EMT Kelsey Golden for their extraordinary actions on a difficult EMS call. The commissioners awarded EMS Exemplary Performance Awards to this crew for the resuscitation of a 51-year-old man who was found in cardiac arrest. Teamwork with responders from the neighboring community and county transport provider was credited with the smooth patient care, transition to the hospital, and eventual patient discharge three days later with no neurological deficits.
Sarasota County Welcomes Eight Firefighters
By Sara Nealeigh, Media Relations Officer
The Sarasota County Fire Department proudly welcomed eight new firefighters in a badge-pinning and swearing-in ceremony on June 14, 2024. Firefighters Gregory Emanuelson, Michael Harvey, Michael Hendrickson, Asa Jester, Maxwell Middleton, Jonathon Rose, Alexander Sabin and Kevin Smith were sworn in by Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners District 2 Commissioner Mark Smith. The new hires began their new employee orientation at SCFD on April 8 and completed the rigorous tenweek training conducted by the SCFD Training Division. Within days of completing the orientation, the eight firefighters were assigned to one of the three operational shifts in service of the Sarasota County community.
Pinellas Park Paramedic Receives Board Certification
By Suzanne Boisvert, Emergency Management Coordinator
Pinellas Park congratulates Firefighter/Paramedic Erin Giblin on her board certification as a Community Paramedic from the International Board of Specialty Certification (IBSC). The Community Paramedic Certification (CP-C) is an advanced level certification that focuses on the knowledge of accomplished, experienced paramedics who provide services beyond the roles of traditional emergency care and transport.
Erin is the coordinator of the department’s CARES program (Community Assistance Resources Education & Safety) which strives to enhance healthcare in the community through non-emergency interaction with residents such as in-home assessments, coordination of needed services, and falls prevention education.
Since its implementation in 2023, Erin and her team have made nearly 200 home visits and registered over 100 residents in the program. There’s also been a nearly 60% reduction in falls-related calls in PPFD’s coverage area.
“Erin has truly done a tremendous job in developing and enhancing the CARES program and paving the way for what mobile integrated healthcare can look like in the county” said EMS Chief Andrew Hughes.
HCFR Volunteer Firefighter in Right Place, Right Time
By Karen Clogston, APIO, Public Information Officer, Highlands County Board of County
In early June, Highlands County Fire Rescue crews responded to a call of no vitals at a city pickleball court, wherea man had collapsed while playing pickleball with friends.
Two bystanders immediately began cardiopulmonaryresuscitation (CPR) on the male victim before crews arrived, and it turnsout one of the bystanders was a new volunteer firefighter with Highlands County Fire Rescue.
Jhezer “Jay” Maranan happened to be in the right place at the right time and he helped start the chain of survival, which resulted in a positive outcome.
Turns out Jay and a friend were playing a pickleball game with Ed Crouch and his partner. When the match finished, Ed collapsed. Jay, who has an EMT certificate from the
state of Florida and has been with Fire Rescue for about three months, said his training kicked in, and he “jumped” over the net out of instinct. He checked for a pulse and a response and saw that Ed’s “respirations were bad.”
He delegated someone to call 911 and began chest compressions. Jay and the second bystander kept it going until Highlands County Fire Rescue arrived and took over.
“It was a surreal moment,” he said. “I did my best from what I was trained to do. It was my first time doing CPR in a real-life situation.”
While the fun took a harrowing turn, it was Jay’s training that helped a victim suffering from cardiac arrest achieve the best possible outcome.
t took responders about 9-10 minutes to
restore a pulse and breathing. Ed was transported to a local hospital, and from there, he was flown to another facility for further treatment. And on July 4, Ed returned home and was greeted by many of the first responders who treated him. He told them he appreciated everything emergency responders did for him that day. Two of Highlands County's rescue units and the local city department firefighters responded to the call. The two rescue units were on the scene in less than three minutes from when the call was dispatched. Often, first responders do not know a patient's outcome after a call. A positive outcome helps give them closure and reaffirms their sense of purpose. Highlands County Fire Rescue presented Lifesaver Awards to all responders on that call in early August.
