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
Harold Theus - President
Michael Choate - 1st Vice President
Trip Barrs - 2nd Vice President
Douglas Riley - Immediate Past President
Carlos Aviles - Secretary/Treasurer
Ryan H. Crawford - 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
Leland Greek - Senior Member
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Florida Fire Service
May 2024, Volume 32, Number 5 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.
Tough Times Bring Tough People .
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The Whelen Everyday Champion program honors an individual or group that has shown bravery during an act of exceptionalvalororworkstirelesslyeachdaytomaketheircommunityabetterplacetolive.
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Hope all is well.
It is hard to believe that we are moving through 2024 so quickly. The month of May started out with several of your board members returning from Washington, D.C. where we attended the Congressional Fire Service Caucus that was hosted by the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI). We spent the first day attending a symposium that covered information regarding Artificial Intelligence, Community Risk Reduction, Lithium-Ion Safety, Cancer Preventative Measures, Hospital Wait Times, and an inter view with U.S. Fire Administrator Lori Moore-Merrell.
The symposium and formal dinner took place at the historic Washington Hilton, and I would like to thank Cindy Morgan and Ten-8 Fire and Safety for hosting our table at the dinner.
The next day was spent on Capitol Hill, where we visited several Florida House members, staff, and Senators Rubio and Scott. The focus of our meetings was to build
relationships and to let them know that the Florida Fire Chiefs' Association can be relied upon to provide expert insight and information on legislation. Our team was led by Legislative Chair Darrel Donatto, along with Executive Director Ngoc Huynh, 1st VP Michael Choate, Secretary/Treasurer Carlos Aviles, and me. We were also privileged to have Director JoAnne Rice from the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal Office with us.
On May 16th, Executive Director Ngoc Huynh and I participated in CFO Patronis' House Bill 989 Press Conference. The point of the press conference was to bring attention to the growing concerns and dangers of lithium-ion fires. The bill is intended to engage stakeholders and host rulemaking to research and develop safe charging and storage methods for lithium-ion batteries. The press conference took place at Orlando's Fire Station One "The Big House" and was highlighted by news agencies across the state.
We are nearing the end of our regional meetings, and I want to express how much I have enjoyed visiting all your areas. Our association is fortunate to have outstanding regional directors who often do not receive the credit they deserve. I would like to thank Ryan Crawford, Brady
Harold Theus, Fire Chief FFCA President
Rigdon, Ian Kemp, Michael Johansmeyer, Greg DeWitt, and Chantal Botting for their hard work and dedication to the association's membership. We have one more regional meeting left this year It's the Southeast Region on June 11th at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, in conjunction with the First There First Care & Gathering of Eagles Conference. I am also very excited about our Executive Development Conference (EDC) from July 19th through the 23rd at the Waters Street Marriott in Tampa, Florida. We have already had to increase the room blocks, so we are looking forward to a ver ywell-attended conference with great speakers.
In 2018, the IAFF and NBC News surveyed over 7,000 firefighters nationwide. Their results were shocking and overwhelming to those outside the job. Some of their results were: 95% said that critical incidents caused on-the-job stress, while 71% experienced trouble sleeping, and 65% felt haunted by memories of bad calls. The amazing thing about this question is that over 25% of people surveyed did not respond to this question, and 59% were struggling with relationship or family issues. 27% of respondents said on the job stress has led to substance abuse (mostly alcohol).
Remember, this survey was done in 2018, prior to COVID-19, the social justice, and MeToo movements, the Israel-Hamas war and much of the political unrest we are dealing with today My guess is that if that survey was done today, the percentages would be even higher. This does not include any of the job-related problems that are now commonplace in the fire service that were not as prevalent in 2018, such as, mandatory overtime, supply chain issues (2–3-year delays in getting new apparatus, bunker gear, new stations, etc.), difficulty in hiring new employees, lack of adequate funding to alleviate some of these problems, low morale and the list goes on. This can be overwhelming and exhausting for a department to overcome. Unfortunately, most fire departments are now dealing with most of these problems.
But, as a respected fire chief told me multiple times, “don’t bring me a problem unless you have a solution for it.” First of all, take heart; this is not the first time the fire service has dealt with these internal issues.
Throughout our nation's history,
fire departments have faced tough times during economic downturns. Our country has weathered wars, political unrest, and protest movements, such as those in the 1960s and 70s. Despite these challenges, both our nation and the fire service have endured. And I would argue that each has come out better and stronger on the other side.
I suspect that will be the case again, it is just a matter of time. In our current culture, bad news plays better in the news media and in social media. The worse a situation is, the higher the ratings and the more likes/views. It makes gloom, doom, and despair seem like a national pandemic (see what I did there) and commonplace in every American home. The sky is not falling, but there are very few sources or people that will publicize that because it is not as exciting or attention getting. Less than 20% of Americans are on any social media platform and that number is less than 1 in 10 for people 35+, which is the age of most of the people in leadership in the fire service.
My guess is that in time, a lot of the social media-based jobs will become less influential/profitable. As that occurs, these people will have to get what I consider “real jobs.” Eventually, the jobs of influencers, gossip bloggers, and the like will become marginalized, and they will have to consider jobs in the trades and manufacturing sector This also includes police and firefighter jobs.
Things will get better. Firefighters are some of the most resilient people on the face of the earth. Just look at what they deal with and still they come back to work the next day. Robert Schuller, an evangelist and pastor, whose ministry stressed the positive aspects of Christianity, stated “tough times never last, but tough people do.” This is a synopsis of firefighters doing their job. We will get through this rough patch and be better on the other
side. In the meantime, how we handle adversity will be a testament to our character.
It reminds me of a situation that took place in Jesus’ life. He was run out of His hometown of Nazareth. The people took Jesus to the top ofa cliff and planned to throw Him off. He was able to escape and continue His ministry. He didn’t let that stop Him from continuing His ministry. He left Nazareth and went down to Capernaum where He continued to teach in the Synagogue and heal many people, including Peter’s mother-in-law. People attempting to kill you is serious stuff and a very difficult situation. It is something that is discouraging. While the fire service is facing difficult problems now, it is something we can push through and get past. We must be tougher than our circumstances. We ARE tougher than our circumstances. With help from one another and guidance from the Lord, we will get through our current issues. Isaiah 43:2 “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”
Rick Spence retired as Assistant Chief from the Reedy Creek Fire Department after 30 years. Heis currently the Chaplain for the Florida FireChiefs’ 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 asSergeant 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.
Iam honored to have a son who chose to follow in his father’s footsteps and join a fire department here in S. Florida. Witnessing the fire service through the fresh eyes of an 18-yearold, learning every day at his career department, offers a unique blend of appreciation for me as it relates to my view on public service. The innocence accompanying a Gen Z probie inside the firehouse must be eyeopening and, at times, entertaining. As a firefighter dad, part of my role has been to mentor him into understanding the ‘why’ he chose this profession and that safety is always paramount. As a probie, I shared that achieving a level of mastery in the very basics of firefighting is one of the best ways for him to accomplish this. This, of course, starts with his PPE.
After being on the job for a few months, my son and his buddies attended a RIT; Saving Our Own HOT class at a local fire academy (The Palm Beach State Fire College Invitational). He came home buzzing with questions, particularly about an exercise involving multiple firefighters coordinating around a hole to rescue a downed firefighter who fell through. He was taught how to use ropes and charged hose lines to lift out a fallen firefighter He couldn’t understand why so many firefighters would be on a roof, and it didn’t sound safe to him especially if it was compromised with a hole already.I asked him why he thought it was a roof hole. I asked, “By any chance, was the training called the Nance Drill?” to which he enthusiastically replied, “Yes,”!
Of course, he wondered how I knew that, but instead of gloating (for at least a few minutes), I reminded him that part of a firefighter’s oath of office is to honor those who have come before him. “Do you know why they call it the Nance Drill?” I asked. He admitted that he did not know. I began to tell him that the exercise was named after John Nance, a Columbus firefighter who tragically fell through the floor into the basement of a 3rd-alarm commercial structure fire. I stressed that this tragic event led to the development of the rescue techniques that he and his buddies learned nearly three decades after the event. I reminded him that the fire service had analyzed this tragedy and had fine-tuned the strategies and methods of victim removal,
having been passed down from generation to generation of firefighters just like he and his buddies in today’s class.
The importance of this drill and the story of John Nance was missed in the class as the students focused solely on the rescue techniques. My son and his peers assumed the hole was in a roof, not understanding that the training exercise represented a hole in a floor. Adding to this was the fact that basements are uncommon in our area, South Florida, and none of the attendees at the training had even been inside a basement in their lives. This misunderstanding underscored the critical need to teach the ‘why’—not just the ‘how’—of firefighting techniques to our next generation of firefighters. That night, I sent my son and his friends a link to a tribute to John Nance from Billy G’s archive at FirefighterClosecalls.com, explaining who John was and the lasting legacy he left behind.
This story perfectly ties into the significance of the 2024 Firefighter Safety Stand Down, which carries the theme “Fire Training: Back to Basics.” This initiative reinforces fundamental firefighting skills and knowledge for effective emergency response and firefighter safety The annual initiative takes place during the third week of June, and this year, the Stand Down runs from June 16 – June 22nd.
The Genesis of Safety Stand Down
The military adopted the Safety Stand-down concept, which has been well integrated into the fire service for many years. The Stand Down is a collaboration between the IAFC Safety, Health & Survival Section, the IAFF, and the NFPA, to name a few. It ensures that firefighters dedicate time to focus exclusively on safety and health protocols. This tradition has been crucial in reducing injuries and fatalities within the service. Fire departments, public safety, and emergency service agencies are asked to suspend all non-emergency activities during the week to focus on the health, safety, and wellbeing of firefighter education and training.
To make the most of this year’s Safety Stand Down, there are plenty of resources on www.safetystanddown.org that detail the “5”
Daily Focus areas of building a solid training program and feature structured activities and topics for each day The featured content also emphasizes the “12” Foundations of Fire Department Training with additional resources from NFPA 1400: Standard on Fire Service Training, featured on the NFPA Online Learning page.
The Firefighter Safety Stand Down serves as
an annual checkpoint where fire departments can reinforce the fundamental skills essential for safety. It reminds people of the significant role in the complex dynamics of firefighting and how dangerous this calling can be for our people. We owe it to them, the men and women on the front lines, to do our very best to provide the safest and healthiest work environment possible, fully understanding the unpredictable elements of an IDLH, or the ramifications of PTSD on our first responders. This week allows those initiatives to take to the stage of our awareness, front and center!
For more information on event planning and resources, visit Safety Stand Down and Safety Stand Down Overview.
Doug McGlynn is a 27-year veteran of the fire service and the Emergency Management Division Chief with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue.Doug is an Incident Commander with the South Florida Regional AHIMT and has deployed to multiple disasters in Florida and Oklahoma over the past 7 years. He hasa Master’s Degree in Leadership from Palm Beach Atlantic University,a Bachelor’s in Public Administration from Barry University, and a Fire Science degree from Palm Beach State College. Doug is a graduate of the Emergency Services Leadership Institute of the Florida Fire Chief’s Association, an EFO of the National Fire Academy, and a graduate of the Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI 11) of the IAFC. Doug is also a designated Chief Fire Officer with the Center for Public Safety Excellence. He sits on the Board of Directors with the Fire Chief’s Association of Palm Beach County.
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On March 23, 2024, President Biden signed into law the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act (P.L. 118-47). This law provides funding to portions of the federal government for the remainder of fiscal year 2024, including fire-related programs and agencies through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Many Americans me included — breathed a collective sigh of relief because the federal government didn’t shut down. Then details started to emerge that sent shivers down my back. Unfortunately, both the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) and the Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs were cut by $36 million each in this backroom brokered deal to keep the government running for the rest of 2024.
It’s Time for Action
It is time to have a very frank conversation about what is happening to the very programs many of us fought to have established. We need to have this conversation now because AFG is scheduled to sunset as a program on September 30. If it is not reauthorized, it will simply vanish.
Those who oppose the AFG and SAFER grants generally do so along two basic arguments. The first suggests fire and EMS are local issues and are not the business of the federal government. The second claims billions of dollars have been poured into these programs without producing any significant changes. Let’s look at the second argument first.
Almost everyone in fire and rescue agree the
AFG and SAFER programs have played a crucial role in enhancing fire safety and emergency response capabilities. While it’s challenging to attribute specific reductions in fire losses and civilian deaths solely to this program, there is ample evidence that these FEMA-funded initiatives have positively impacted firefighting efforts.
1. Equipment and Training: AFG grants have allowed fire departments to acquire essential equipment, such as personal protective gear, breathing apparatus and communication tools. Well-equipped firefighters can respond more effectively to emergencies, potentially reducing property damage and casualties.
2. Enhanced Response Times: By funding training programs and enabling the hiring of additional personnel, AFG and SAFER grants contributed to quicker response times. Faster response can limit the spread of fires, prevent further damage and save lives.
3. Community Risk Reduction: AFG supports community risk reduction initiatives, including fire prevention education, smoke alarm installations and outreach programs. In addition, educating the public about fire safety can prevent fires from occurring in the first place.
4. Collaboration and Standardization: AFG encourages collaboration among fire departments and promotes standardized practices. When neighboring departments work together, they can respond more efficiently during large-scale incidents.
5. Research and Data Collection: The programs also invest in research and data collection related to firefighting.
Understanding trends, causes of fires and effective strategies for fighting them helps inform policy decisions and improve resource allocation.
However, it’s essential to recognize that fire losses and civilian deaths depend on various factors beyond grant programs. These include building codes, public awareness and emergency response infrastructure. Grant programs like AFG and SAFER are just piece of the puzzle, but their impact is significant in bolstering firefighting capabilities and community resilience.
I didn’t think we would have to go through this discussion again but here we are. There is a growing number of members in the House and Senate who continue repeating the phrase, “Fire and EMS are local issues and not federal issues.”
Last year we celebrated the 50th anniversary of America Burning. The America Burning report, a landmark study on the nation’s fire problem, presented 90 recommendations aimed at creating a fire-safe America. The report concluded that the U.S. needed a comprehensive approach addressing the challenges faced by the nation’s fire service.
One of the 90 recommendations was the establishment of national grant programs to fund the needs of fire and EMS. It took 27 years to get those grant programs established. Now we are on the verge of losing them just at a time when prices for apparatus and equipment are skyrocketing.
Without further congressional action, the AFG and SAFER grant programs face termination on September 30, 2024. So, now is the time to take action to protect these programs. I know at times we all feel helpless about influencing the legislative process. I have two suggestions on how to help you overcome that feeling.
First several national fire service organizations will be heading to Capitol Hill on April 29 as part of the Congressional Fire Services Institute’s (CFSI) annual dinner and symposium. If you are going to be in Washington for that event, please join the CFSI in visiting your member of Congress and/or senator.
Second, if you can’t get to Washington on April 29, call your legislators’ local offices and schedule a meeting with them the next time they are back in their district. If that doesn’t work, ask to speak with their legislative aid. Express your concerns to them.
Especially highlight any awards you may have received through AFG or SAFER and the positive impact they have had on your department and coverage area.
We need to take action now or we are going to lose these critical programs!
Not sure where to start? Lexipol’s team of expert grant writers, researchers and project managers can help your agency through custom grant solutions geared toward getting your department the funds it needs to meet its safety and wellness mandates.
For generations, we’ve been there — protecting the future of more emergency responders than any other provider of emergency service insurance in North America. With 24/7 claims support, industryleading training tools and a 97.6 percent loyalty scale, VFIS is the preferred insurance provider among agents and their customers.
Jerry Brant is a senior grant consultant and grant writer with FireGrantsHelp and EMSGrantsHelp. He has 46 years of experience as a volunteer firefighter in west-central Pennsylvania. He is a life member of the Hope Fire Company of NorthernCambria, where he ser ved as chief for 15 years. He is an active member and safety officer of the Patton Fire Company 1. In 2003, he was awarded a James A Johnson Fellowship by the FannieMae Foundation for his accomplishments in community development. In 2019, he was honored with the Leroy C. Focht Sr. Memorial Award from the Central District Volunteer Fireman’s Association. He has successfully written more than $70 million in grant applications.
The Budget and Finance Module within the Emergency Services Leadership Institute (ESLI) provides comprehensive training tailored for fire service officers, focusing on essential financial management skills crucial for effective leadership in emergency response organizations. Held recently at Tamarac Fire Rescue with 48 fire service officers, this module allowed each participant to utilize their own respective organization’s budget to answer questions related to funding and overall percentages of each account line.
Understanding the concept of accounting lines, capital budget compared to capital improvement plan (CIP) compared to the operating budget, purchasing limitations through policy, encumbrances, and fund transfers were just some of the items discussed.
Key Components:
1. Fundamentals of Budgeting:
•Understanding the importance of budgeting in emergency service organizations
•Exploring different budgeting approaches and methodologies
•Practical exercises and case studies to illustrate budgeting principles in the context of fire rescue operations
2. Financial Planning and Resource
Allocation:
•Techniques for financial forecasting and long-term planning
•Strategies for resource allocation optimization, considering operational needs and constraints
•Risk assessment and contingency planning to mitigate financial uncertainties
•Staffing Models and Industry Practices
3. Fiscal Responsibility and Compliance:
•Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements governing emergency service finances
•Ethical considerations in financial management
• Accountability mechanisms and best practices for transparent financial reporting
4. Grant Management and Fundraising:
• Identifying funding sources and opportunities for grant
• Grant application process and grant management best practices
• Developing effective fundraising strategies to supplement budgetary resources
5. Financial Performance Evaluation:
•Key performance indicators (KPIs) for assessing financial health and organizational efficiency
•Financial statement analysis and interpretation
•Continuous improvement strategies based on financial performance feedback
6. Leadership in Financial Management:
•Integrating financial management into overall leadership practices
•Communicating financial objectives and decisions effectively to stakeholders
•Leading organizational change initiatives to enhance financial resilience and sustainability
Benefits:
•Enhanced financial literacy and proficiency among Fire Service Officers
•Improved decision-making capabilities regarding resource allocation and financial planning
• Strengthened organizational financial health and sustainability
• Increased confidence in managing financial challenges and opportunities within emergency service contexts By providing fire service officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of budgeting and finance, the Budget and Finance module of ESLI empowers participants to lead with confidence and effectiveness in their roles within Florida’s fire rescue.
The fire service provides excellent training and preparation opportunities for the aspiring fire officer for the front-right officer’s riding position of a fire apparatus within operations. Unfortunately, this is not the case for preparing an aspiring fire officer for their transition from the front-right seat of a fire apparatus into the 40-hour administrative role. However, Florida is the exception. The six modules incorporated into the Emergency Services Leadership Institute 2-day courses gives fire officers aspiring to the senior and executive level an opportunity to be presented and have significant understanding of the expectations and responsibilities associated with a fire officer’s roles in an administrative role. If you are looking for a professional development program that will provide first-hand information for the transition from the field into administration in the Florida fire service; visit the FFCA website for more information.
Instructors: Fire Chief Michael Johansmeyer (Lake Mary Fire Department) and Division Chief Jason Massa (Sunrise Fire Rescue).
In response to the 2021 collapse of the 12story Champlain Towers South building that killed 98 people, the Florida Legislature passed a series of laws requiring some existing condominium buildings to be inspected by a Florida licensed architect or engineer.1 The purpose of these inspections is to assess the
general structural condition of the building. These “Milestone Inspections” apply to condominium buildings that are three stories or higher and are greater than 30 years old. The initial Milestone Inspections must be completed by December 31, 2024.
The Milestone Inspections occur in two phases. For phase one Milestone Inspections, the architect or engineer conducts a visual examination of the building, including the major structural components. If no signs of substantial structural deterioration are found, no further inspections are required. If signs of substantial structural deteriorations are discovered, a phase two inspection is then required. The phase two inspection is more invasive in order to determine if the building is structurally sound. This may involve destructive or nondestructive testing. Depending on the findings of these inspections, the results of either the phase one or phase two inspection can vary dramatically ranging from no repairs being required to an immediate building evacuation if the building is determined to be unsafe for occupancy.
The oversight of these Milestone Inspections occurs under the local building official and is covered in the Florida Building Code.2 In addition, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) Division of Condominiums, Timeshares & Mobile Homes has regulatory authority over the condominiums that
are subject to these Milestone Inspection provisions. A condominium association that fails to conduct the required Milestone Inspection would be in violation of the Florida Building Code and the statutory provisions. This should result in enforcement by the local code enforcement board, DBPR and/or Circuit Court.
While these structural Milestone Inspections do not directly consider building fire protection issues within their scope, the fire service should be aware of, and will be involved in, some of the potential impacts from these inspections. Before the end of 2024, there will be specific requirements placed on the architect or engineer who performs a milestone inspection to notify the condominium association, the local building official and the local fire chief if conditions are found that would endanger life/property or is determined to be dangerous.3, 4 Depending on the extent of the hazard, the notification to the fire chief could take place as late as ten days after the discovery of the hazard or as quick as twenty-four hours from the time of discovery of the hazard.5
Once a fire chief receives such a notification, a number of questions should be asked and actions should be initiated. These questions and actions include:
Does the hazard warrant the immediate evacuation of the building? The Milestone Inspection report from the architect or engineer should provide the specific guidance necessary to make this decision. If the report does not provide this guidance, contact the architect or engineer that conducted the Milestone Inspection for their professional judgement. Obtain their professional recommendation in writing. If the Milestone Inspection Report does recommend evacuation
of the building, the local building official, law enforcement agency, emergency management agency and your legal counsel should be engaged for their professional guidance and assistance. These types of evacuations will not be easy as the occupants may not perceive any immediate risk to their own safety.
Is jurisdictional code enforcement action occurring to ensure the hazard is corrected? Do not assume that just because notifications have occurred to the building official that the appropriate enforcement action is forthcoming to correct the hazard. While the responsibility for enforcement of these corrections rests with the building official, the serious nature of these violations should result in a comprehensive jurisdictional approach that includes support of the building official by the fire department to assist in ensuring these serious hazards are corrected. These condominium issues can be highly political and the building official will need the support of the fire chief and fire department staff to assist with a successful outcome.
Even if a building evacuation is not necessary, the hazards conveyed in the Milestone Inspection Report should be immediately conveyed to the operations crews so they are aware of the extent of the hazards
and such hazards can be incorporated into preincident planning and potential dispatch notifications. Identified hazards may impact the ability of operational crews to safely conduct manual fire suppression operations or other response activities in the building. It is possible that a Milestone Inspection Report could state that the building can still be occupied with shoring, restricted access areas, other temporary measures and/or time limitations on the corrections. As a result, it may be necessary to spend some time and effort analyzing the extent of the hazards and the recommended mitigations.
The local fire prevention bureau should be provided with a copy of the Milestone Inspection Report as there may be hazards identified that are violations of the Florida Fire Prevention Code and require enforcement action be initiated by the fire department.6 While the Milestone Inspection(s) are focused on the structural condition of the building, fire and egress hazards might be noted in the Milestone Inspection Report if observed by the architect and engineer during the course of their walk-though.
As the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation is the licensing body for condominiums, ensure complaints are filed with DBPR if the condominium is in violation of the Milestone Inspection requirements of Florida Statutes, the Florida Building Code, the Florida Fire Prevention Code or is determined by the architect or engineer to have conditions that endanger life/property or are dangerous.
While the completion of Condominium Milestone Inspections is enforced by the Building Department and will be a valuable tool to ensure the existing building stock is maintained in a safe manner, the fire chief should be aware of these inspections and the potential implications to crew operational
safety, fire code enforcement activities and the need to implement emergency evacuations of dangerous buildings. Planning on how to deal with these issues with your building official, law enforcement agency, fire marshal, emergency management and legal counsel, before they hit your desk, will be key to a successful outcome.
Anthony “Tony” Apfelbeck, CFO, FM, FIFireE, has thirty-five years of fire and building code management experience and currently serves as the Director of Building and Fire Safety for the City of Altamonte Springs. Tony has a bachelor’s degree in fire service administration and a master’s degree in public administration. He currently serves on the NFPA Standards Council, UL Fire Council and a number of NFPA Technical Committees. Tony can be contact at ACApfelbeck@Altamonte.org.
1 Ch. 718, 553 Fla. Stat. (2004)
2 Chapter 18 Florida Building Code (Existing building) Will be effective prior to the end of 2024.
3 Dangerous is defined in the Florida Building Code (Building) Section 202. This includes conditions where “There exists a significant risk of collapse…”
4 Even prior to the effective date of these new notification provisions in the Florida Building Code, an architect or engineer has a professional obligation to notify local government if a building is found to endanger life/property or is determined to be dangerous.
5 Section 1804.2 Florida Building Code (Existing Building) Will be effective prior to the end of 2024.
6 As an example, Section 10.1.4 of the Florida Fire Prevention Code makes uncorrected structural hazard repairs a violation of the FFPC.
OnTuesday, April 30, 2024, Brevard County Ocean Rescue lifeguards hosted a beach pub-ed for the Secular Homeschoolers of Brevard. This fun and high-energy group of students consisted of about 20 students ranging in age from 7-15 years old. Ocean Rescue Captain Shiloh Dragon, Lieutenant Emily Chalmers, Lieutenant Jackie Allen, and full-time Lifeguard Matthew Lewis were on site to offer the group beach safety training. Students started with a PowerPoint presentation about the day-to-day workings of Ocean Rescue and included water safety, how to identify a rip current, first aid, statistics on calls and rescues. The group proceeded with hands-on learning with signaling, basic first aid, and other
lifesaving equipment. The group then participated in physical learning through pushups and a popular lifeguard competition game, Beach Flags. Later, they walked the beach with activity sheets, filling in the blanks and enjoying a scavenger hunt. By the end of their training, they were able to talk to on-duty lifeguards, ask questions, and learned about tower procedures and day-to-day tasks.
On Friday, May 10, 2024, Deputy Chiefs Nick Dorey and Steve Livingston, accompanied by Public Information Officer Lisa McDonald, took a trip to the Orlando-Sanford International Airport for a special visit to see “Kermit” the Hurricane Hunter plane.
The trio’s excursion marked a unique opportunity to delve into the crucial work conducted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Air Force Reserve’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron. Kermit, a WP-3 Orion Turboprop aircraft, is an integral component of the squadron, renowned for its pivotal role in gathering data that aids in forecasting hurricanes.
Upon arrival, Deputy Chiefs Dorey and Livingston, both seasoned veterans of emergency management, expressed their enthusiasm for the visit. “Understanding the tools and technologies utilized in hurricane tracking and prediction is paramount to our preparedness efforts,” stated Deputy Chief Livingston.
The group was given the opportunity to see inside the aircraft in a selfguided tour. From its state-of-the-art instrumentation to its modified design for navigating extreme weather conditions, the aircraft left a lasting impression on the visiting officials.
The visit coincided with ongoing efforts by emergency management agencies to bolster resilience and readiness in the face of natural disasters. The group appreciated the efforts of Seminole County Emergency Management to bring the aircraft to the airport for local officials to see the plane and have the opportunity to speak with the pilots, scientists and meteorologists who brave the inside of a hurricane to gather data.
Kermit has been in operation since 1979 and has flown into 129 Hurricanes. The pilot navigates the plane about 10,000 feet above the water while scientific instruments are deployed directly into the storm.
After the visit, the officials departed with a newfound appreciation for the tireless efforts of those on the front lines of hurricane reconnaissance. Armed with knowledge and insight gained from their visit, they stand poised to confront the challenges of the upcoming hurricane season with renewed confidence and resolve.
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) is adopting new measures to bolster emergency medical services and improve response times to critical situations. Among these progressive initiatives is the introduction of peak ambulances, a strategic move aimed at optimizing resources and improving community safety.
Rapid population growth in the Tampa Bay region has led to longer response times for HCFR. In some of the county's busiest neighborhoods, firefighters now handle up to 20 medical calls per shift. Approximately two-
thirds of HCFR's ambulances operate at unsustainable utilization levels, affecting response times, crew burnout, and fatigue.
Recognizing this, HCFR has taken a proactive approach.
On May 1, HCFR began deploying five additional ambulances during peak hours. These peak-hour ambulances are staffed by a three-person crew working overtime to meet the increasing demands. The introduction of peak-hour ambulances marks a significant advancement in improving community safety. By strengthening EMS capabilities, HCFR can more effectively respond to medical emergencies. Prompt intervention can significantly impact saving lives and
minimizing the effects of emergencies. Furthermore, HCFR is not simply increasing the number of ambulances, but it is doing so with a well-thought-out strategy. By harnessing data and analytics, HCFR has pinpointed areas where additional ambulances can most efficiently alleviate the pressure on existing crews while enhancing response times. This data-driven approach ensures that each peak-hour ambulance, operating a 12-hour shift, will be stationed in parts of the county with the highest demand.
Martin County Fire Rescue celebrated the grand opening of its new Fire Training Facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, March 28.
The ceremony was attended by state and local elected officials, community members, and local media. It featured a presentation by Fire Chief Chad Cianciulli, interactive training activities, and guided tours around the facility
Attendees were allowed to view the new technology and equipment, that will enable our firefighters to undergo specialized training and enhance our ability to save lives.
The facility's classrooms will be equipped with two interactive touchscreen TVs. These TVs will connect to students' tablets,
encouraging collaboration and enhancing engagement during lessons. This setup will create an environment where students can actively participate in projects and discussions, using technology to make learning more dynamic and immersive.
Fire trainees will also have access to lockers, showers, and ample storage for bunker gear. The facility will be equipped with largecapacity PPE extractors and its own SCBA cascade system, allowing the training bureau to refill used air bottles quickly.
Lastly, the facility is equipped with a small kitchen where recruits and instructors can enjoy a meal together.
Since the start of April, Palm Bay Fire Rescue (PBFR) has seen massive upticks in brush fire incidents in the heavily wooded areas within the city. With daily heavy winds, and extremely dry conditions within our coastal community, PBFR has been working tirelessly to keep our city, its citizens, and visitors safe. Hundreds of acres of land went up in flames during our latest grouping of wildland incidents. Because of the continued brush fire threat, PBFR's command staff has implemented the up staffing of fire personnel for department brush trucks and water tenders. PBFR has also bolstered our response profile to include early activation of nearby agencies, including the Division of Forestry. Due to the recent brush fires, PBFR has encouraged the public to call 9-11 early should they see smoke or fire. PBFR also has communicated to area homeowners to keep their properties tidy and free from rubbish or unnecessary yard debris and to clear out overgrown vegetation.
Polk County Fire Rescue (PCFR) responded to an elevated technical rescueonMarch 22, 2024. Upon arrival, crews located an individual pinned between a tree and a boom lift. The individual was performing tree trimming services when the incident occurred.
Fourteen PCFR units, includingthe department’s Special Operations team, responded to the scene with mutual aid provided by Lakeland Regional Trauma Surgeon and PCFR’s Assistant Medical Director Dr. Olumide Sobowale, members of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Auburndale Fire Department, and Winter Haven Fire Department.
During the incident, members provided the trapped patient with advanced life support while they were almost 15 feet off the ground. PCFR’s Special Operations team members and command planned and executed the rescue within hours.
Due to the unique nature of the
incident, this multi-hour rescue tested the competencies of all involved, but despite the difficulty, the team completed a successful rescue. Due to the compression force applied to the patient by the large fallen tree, coordination between the special operations team and the surgeon ensured the proper treatment of the effects of compartment syndrome before extrication. Once freed, the medical team reassessed the situation and continued to provide advanced life support for the patient with timely transport by PCFR’s ambulance to a local trauma center
“Our members continue to function at the highest levels and are prepared for all hazards,” said Fire Chief Hezedean A. Smith, D.M. “The interdisciplinary collaboration between our medics, special operations members, command staff, and our trauma surgeons was phenomenal.”
Ina demonstration of tradition and community unity, the Longwood Fire Department successfully conducted the Push-In Ceremony for its newest addition, Ladder 15, on April 17, 2024.
The Push-In Ceremony, a cherished tradition within the firefighting community, symbolizes the official welcoming of a new fire truck into active duty. Ladder 15 stands as a beacon of safety and protection for the citizens of Longwood, and it has been greeted with pride and excitement by members of the department and the community. The event provided a poignant reminder of the Longwood Fire Department's dedication and commitment to serving and safeguarding the community.
"This ceremony not only marks the addition of a vital piece of equipment but also serves as a testament to our ongoing commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our residents," remarked Fire Chief Michael Peters.
Fire departments from all over Seminole County participated in the event, highlighting the unity and solidarity within the firefighting community Attendees enjoyed learning about Ladder 15's capabilities and had the chance to examine the new fire truck closely, discovering its advanced features and functions.
Deputy Chief Troy Feist spoke of the amount of work that went into
getting the ladder in service, stating, "I want to commend the entire line staff of the Longwood Fire Department. We challenged you with something new, and you stepped up and exceeded our expectations."
Following the ceremony, attendees gathered for light snacks and refreshments provided by Mission BBQ, which provided a relaxed atmosphere for networking and fellowship among participants.
The event celebrated the dedication and service of the Longwood Fire Department, reinforcing its mission to provide excellent service to the community.
implementation, Dixie County Fire Rescue has seen a decrease in those patients who continually overutilize fire rescue services for primary care and has seen an increase in ambulance availability because of this reduction. The Community Paramedicine Program has been a huge success and is imperative to providing much-needed access to care to this severely underserved county in rural Florida.
ixie County is a severely financially constrained county in rural Florida with a resident population of over 17,000 people over 704 square miles. Over 20% of this resident population consists of people over 65 years of age, many of whom have serious medical conditions with very little access to care. The percentage of households in poverty, the suicide death rate, the percentage of households receiving public assistance, the preventable hospitalization rate, and the percentage of mothers who smoked during pregnancy are all nearly twice the national average. The disadvantages are even further compounded by the fact that the closest major medical facility is 40+ miles away from the nearest border of the County in any direction. Because of the above-mentioned disparities as well as many others, Dixie County Fire Rescue decided to implement a Community Paramedicine program in 2021. Currently, the MIH/CP program consists of one Community Paramedic (CP) whose primary function is to provide a wide range of medical and supportive services to all those in Dixie County who are in need. Services range from acute medical care needs, chronic disease management, medication management, fall prevention assessments, substance abuse counseling and support, home health assistance, hospital discharge services, and more. Dixie County’s CP-1 also coordinates resources including anything from helping patients locate much-needed medical equipment to arranging additional medical or social services through coordination with our community partners.
Since the inception of the program, the program has received hundreds of patient referrals from community partners and EMS crew members. Many of these referrals are high-system utilizers of the 911/EMS system for low-acuity medical issues. Of those referrals, many have been enrolled in the program including a large amount who require extensive follow-up from our CP for a wide variety of medical conditions. Numerous patients have successfully graduated from the program, which means they are often discharged to long-term continued care providers. While many members require long-term care, some of the members of the program only require help navigating the healthcare system.
As a result of the MIH/CP program
May 12, 2024, marks the 80th anniversary of the deadliest fire at the Boca Raton Army Air Field. The nine U.S. Army – Air Corps soldiers lost on that tragic day were (death certificates listed trauma as the cause of death for two and burns for seven):
First Lt. William H. Carson - Pilot South Carolina, age 23
First Lt. Jacob M. Buie - Student Radar Operator Florida, age 22
First Lt. Thomas A. Lamont - Student Radar Operator New York, age 27
First Lt. John J. Lominac - Student Radar Operator North Carolina, age 25
First Lt. Benjamin P. Sibley - Student Radar Operator Massachusetts, age 27
Staff Sergeant Frank L. Bursaw - Radio Operator Missouri, age 31
Sergeant John S. Safieko - Radar Instructor Wisconsin, age 25
Private First-Class Norman R. Steiner - Student Engineer New York, age 20
Private Robert E. Locke - Aerial Engineer Ohio, age 22
On May 12, 1944, at 8:17AM, the B-34 was taking off in an easterly direction from the west end of the east/west runway. It had traveled 3,400 feet east and lifted off at an altitude of about 35 feet when it veered left and hit the ground, cartwheeling. It stopped upside down and in flames.
The final resting place of the aircraft fuselage was 800 feet west of the east end of the
East/West runway and 200 feet north of that point. By my calculations, the aircraft came to rest at what today is the intersection of North University Drive and FAU Blvd. on the Florida Atlantic University campus.
There was an ambulance and crash unit shed at the airfield, but no permanent fire stations on the flight line in May 1944. As a result, most of the airfield firefighting coverage at the shed was done by rotating crews from the four structural fire stations in 6-hour blocks. As a result of this tragedy, additional firefighters were added, training was enhanced, Crash Fire Station #1 was completed and staffed on April 21, 1945, and Crash Fire Station #2 was completed and staffed in September 1945. Boca Raton Fire Department did not fight this fire.
An Air Corps Accident Review Board, made up of one Colonel and three
Majors took 19 written witness statements on May 13, 1944. The witnesses varied widely on the altitude of the B-34 just before it crashed. The average of the 10 estimates placed it at 35 feet above the ground. Five witnesses thought the aircraft didn’t have enough speed before lifting off and four stated it lifted off too soon. Physical evidence of the condition of the left engine post-crash indicated that it had lost power, as testified by the Major in charge of Shop Maintenance and the
General Superintendent of Shop Maintenance. One witness spoke with the only soldier to initially survive the crash, First Lt. Jacob Buie. He gave no indication as to the cause of the crash, as he was only concerned for his comrades still inside the wrecked burning aircraft. Buie died at 2:20PM at the base hospital. The Board issued its findings on May 22, 1944, and wrote: “It is the opinion of the Board that
RB-34A-1 type airplane, serial number 41-38045, crashed due to the loss of power of the left engine shortly after take-off at the critical time when a successful single engine operation would be extremely difficult.” The Board also alluded to a possible failure of the fuel pump serving the engine and that the 750 plus hours of operation could have been a factor. All B34’s at BRAAF were taken out of service and removed from the facility between September and October 1944, due to obsolescence.
On May 27, 2021, a State of Florida Historical Marker was unveiled at the site of the 1944 crash, on what today is Florida Atlantic University.
Note - Original Research Sources: Unclassified U.S. military documents obtained from the Air Force Historical Research Agency at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, AccidentReport.com MACR #44-5-12-11, State of Florida, Bureau of Vital Statistics (Death Certificates), and the Boca Raton Historical Society
Florida House Bill 157 (approved in 2021 Legislative) requires school districts to provide basic training in first aid, including CPR for all students in 9th and 11th grades.
For the second year in a row, the Seminole County Fire Department’s trained all 9th and 11th grade students at Winter Springs High School over two days in hands-only CPR –this was nearly 500 students.
The initiative is through SCFD’s Save-a-Life
Seminole program. Hands-only CPR has been shown to be equally as effective on a teen or adult as conventional CPR for cardiac arrest at home, at work or in public. The students also learned about the importance of finding an AED.
“Having our local firefighters come interact with the students and teach handsonly CPR has been extremely beneficial and engaging for our students,” said Pete
Gaffney, Winter Springs High School principal, “Not only do our students learn a lifesaving skill, but they interact with positive role models who serve our community.”
“We stress to students that first responders need their help before we arrive on scene,” said Lieutenant Joshua Marzolf. “Time is tissue and ever y second matters. We encourage them to do CPR and the only bad CPR is no CPR at all.”
Recently Captain Johnson, with assistance from our live fire training Instructors, refreshed our members on the many uses of ourthermal imaging cameras (TICs). These cameras are invaluable and, among other
things, are useful in size up, fire attack, search, and overhaul of structure fires. We are fortunate that we have several larger handheld cameras, as well as each MSA G1 air pack also being equipped with its own smaller personal
TIC. This training helps keep our members current on this equipment and its capabilities, as well as proper use, care, and maintenance. Training is a priority that we are proud our members embrace and enjoy.
On May 9, 2024, in the wake of the devastating EF4 tornado that tore through the City of Barnsdall on the night of May 6, Oklahoma urgently requested the assistance of an Incident Management Team (IMT) through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) system. In a testament to their readiness and commitment, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) promptly answered the call, deploying the Central Florida All-Hazards Incident Management Team (AHIMT) early on Saturday, May 11.
The City of Barnsdall experienced an EF1 tornado on April 1, just five weeks before the May 6 EF4 tornado. The two tornadoes overlapped in the congested part of Barnsdall, affecting hundreds of single-family homes in the approximate 20-block area. The May 6 tornado was on the ground for 43 miles, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). It came through Barnsdall at
approximately 9:40 pm. The NWS predicted severe storms that morning, so many people expected them. Once the tornado touched down near Highway 20, the tornado was estimated to be moving at approximately 45mph, which gave the people of Barnsdall around 15-20 minutes to prepare. When the sirens sounded, it took approximately 10 minutes for people to reach their storm shelters. Two people in Barnsdall lost their lives.
The AHIMT consists of five firefighters from Orange County Fire RescueDepartment;one firefighter from Seminole County Fire Department, a communications/IT specialist from Lake County Public Safety Support, a financial manager from Seminole County Board of County Commissioners, and an emergency manager from the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council/Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC). In addition to the Central AHIMT, FDEM deployed a regional response coordinator from
Region 8 (Treasure Coast region), an emergency manager, and a 75-foot mobile command vehicle named "Thor" from Escambia County, along with two emergency management personnel from Santa Rosa County to support Thor.
The team of 13 arrived in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, late on Sunday night after traveling 1,200 miles over two days. First thing on Monday morning, May 13, the team established a unified command with the City of Barnsdall, Osage County, and Osage Nation, the sovereign tribal nation. The City of Barnsdall operates under a strong mayoral government. The mayor also serves as a Captain at Bartlesville Fire Department, located approximately 20 miles north of Barnsdall. Barnsdall has approximately 1,200 residents. Initial preliminary damage assessment (PDA) estimates put 129 homes at major or catastrophic damage. In addition to the arrival of the AHIMT, the Osage Nation sent wildland
firefighters and other members to the city on the night of the tornado, and they have remained since. They are assisting all residents, regardless of where they are from.
The AHIMT team, as of the day of this writing, has assisted the city with the coordination of:
•volunteer check in and management
•daily operations of debris clearing
•daily operations of home demolitions
•mobile medical unit (there are no medical facilities in the city and only one ambulance between four nearby towns)
•created a new traffic pattern for residents
• created a new traffic pattern for debris trucks and equipment
•set up a multi-agency resource center (MARC)
•public messaging of available resources and locations
•hot meals for residents
•transportation for residents who lost vehicles
•mental health services
•veterinary services for equine and bovine needs
•permitting for construction work
•electricians for power restoration on private property (weather head repair/new installs)
•proper documentation of the response and recovery actions
Safety has been a top priority for everyone.
Severe storms continued for over a week after the tornado. Due to the rain, the ground has become very soft, leading to widespread flooding.Thishas caused underground gas pipelines to break due to saturated ground and the weight of construction and excavation equipment. Septic systems and wells have also collapsed for similar reasons. Large trucks were taking out overhead power lines before the
traffic pattern changed.
Additionally, pedestrians in the area are walking to the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC).
The Barnsdall community has warmly welcomed and been gracious to the Florida team.
This community exemplifies the true meaning of a "whole community." The city, the county, the tribe, and the state are collaborating to support the citizens.
Barnsdall was originally named Bigheart after its founding in 1905 by Osage Chief James Bigheart. In 1921, the Barnsdall Oil Company purchased the oil refinery, and the following year,the community's name was changedto Barnsdall. Bigheart Day is celebrated annually on the Saturday before Memorial Day in honor of its founder. It's a citywide event in Barnsdall and is a time for residents and visitors to enjoy good food, entertainment, and family-friendly fun. Bigheart Day features games, arts and crafts, vendor booths, live music, and a parade. Despite two tornadoes in five weeks, the event is still scheduledto take place. Local campsites have been sold outsince January. The Florida team is helping Barnsdall plan and execute the event to ensure the community maintains its tradition and can start the healing process.
On May 9, fourteen City of Crestview firefighters completed and graduated from an EMT training program at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville, Florida. After completing the four-month program, these firefighters are eligible to take the NREMT certification exam to become Florida-certified EMTs.
The City of Crestview had not previously required EMT certification as an employment requirement because the agency only provided and operated on an emergency medical responder level of care. Following the completion of its 2022 Strategic Plan, Crestview Fire Department identified the need to provide better medical services to the citizens of the community it serves and to meet the City of Crestview’s mission statement to “Improve the quality of life by providing exceptional municipal services.” A goal was established for the agency to provide Advanced Life Support (ALS) services within the next several years to better serve its citizens.
As part of the process to accomplish this strategic planning goal, City Manager Tim Bolduc met with the program director at NWFSC to provide EMT training for fourteen currently employed firefighters that did not hold the certification. This satisfied the first objective of the goal, to ensure all firefighters are at least certified to the EMT level. The next objective will beto train firefighters to the Paramedic level and pursue the ability to offer ALS services.
By Lisa Smith, Office of EMS Community Paramedic (CP)
Jonathan Weiss started Brevard County Fire Rescue’s CORE program by posting signs at local beach access points. CP Weiss will also expand sign placement in designated areas such as SCAT bus stops and community parks. The signs provide information for citizens and visitors who are in need or know anyone who suffers from a substance use disorder and is seeking assistance. The CORE program is 100% funded by grant money provided by the State of Florida, which allows us to help combat opioid addiction in Brevard County.
In January, the “Bring the Heat” Classic Girls Gymnastics Competition organized by Meet Expectations raised nearly $10,000 to support cancer prevention initiatives for firefighters. The event was held in honor of the late Orange County Fire Department Rescue firefighter, Stephen “Shakey” VanRavenswaay, who passed away from pancreatic cancer at the age of 44 in 2015. His daughter, Brittney VanRavenswaay, was on the gymnastics meet’s organizing committee.
The Seminole County Firefighters Benevolent Fund in Seminole County, Florida (the union’s charity arm) has used $5,000 of the donation to purchase 150 heavy-duty plastic sealable containers. These containers will be used by “floating” firefighters to store their gear when they go to various stations. “Floater” Firefighters and Lieutenants do not have a permanent station and bring their gear to multiple stations.
The remaining $5,000 was given to the Orange County Fire Charities to benefit cancer-related Firefighter initiatives.
This amazing donation is a wonderful way to honor the late Orange County Fire Department Rescue firefighter, Stephen “Shakey” VanRavenswaay
Flagler County Fire Rescue just received an order of 600 doses of Narcan made available through a grant with the Florida Department of Health. This grant, Helping Emergency Responders Obrain Support (HEROS), assists agencies in offsetting the costs of Narcan. Narcan is a medication that reverses the effects of opioid overdose.
This order of 600 doses of Narcan will supply all of Flagler County Fire Rescue apparatus for the year. This also comes with a savings of almost $20,000 to the department. This is the seventh year in a row Flagler County Fire Rescue has received this grant, totaling almost $140,000 in savings to Flagler County.
Community Paramedics Tracy Farmer and Rob Errett are also trying to stop the “stigma” of overdoses being only related to the opioid user/abuser. Rob Errett stated, “It is also for the “accidental” overdose as well, as this is becoming more and more common with the elderly population.”
On April 17, 2024, fourteen new boats went into service at Orange County Fire Rescue Department. These new boats will greatly expand the department’s water rescue capabilities heading into summer by enlarging our marine footprint across the county and providing rescuers with additional resources during the upcoming hurricane season.
On Friday, April 19, 2024, the Oviedo Fire Department officially welcomed two new firefighters.
Firefighter/Paramedic Andrews Herrera and Firefighter/EMT Austin Turja spent the last few weeks training with Battalion Chiefs, Engineers, Paramedics, Lieutenants, and trainers on various firefighting and emergency response techniques including hose lines, hydrant work, rapid rescue, ladders, forcible entry, EMS testing, extrication, and Tower Truck/Aerial operations.
Fire Chief Michael Woodward conducted a swearing-in ceremony for Herrera and Turja at Oviedo City Hall. His father, a retired Battalion Chief with the Ocean Reef Fire Department in South Florida, pinned Firefighter/Paramedic Andrews Herrera, and Firefighter/EMT Austin Turja was pinned by his father during the ceremony.
“I am thrilled to welcome Firefighters Herrera and Turja to the Oviedo Fire Department,” said Oviedo Fire Chief Michael Woodward. “Their enthusiasm and passion will undoubtedly contribute to the excellent service we provide to the citizens of Oviedo.”
“Both firefighters have unique skill sets that make them valuable to the department,” said Fire Chief Michael Woodward. “We are pleased they have chosen the Oviedo Fire Department as their career path, and we know they will faithfully serve the citizens of this community.”
Along with friends, family, Mayor Sladek, Councilmember Britton, City Manager Bryan Cobb, Fire Command Staff, Fire Department Staff, Department Directors, and city staff joined in welcoming the firefighters.
First responders often find themselves repeatedly called on to assist the same residents. These repeat visits play a part in developing relationships between firefighters and the people they serve. This was certainly the case for Palm Harbor Fire Rescue’s D/E Sharp and the entire crew.
After responding to multiple calls for assistance due to falls, Palm Harbor Fire Rescue
D/E Sharp and the crew established a friendly and humorous relationship with the patient and his wife. This led to a conversation where crew members asked the residents for permission to create a plan to prevent future falls.
Firefighters tried to get them help by contacting different organizations, but the process was slow, and the senior patient’s ground-level falls continued.
After a quick call to Local 2980 Union President Greg Smart, the North Pinellas Charity allotted funds to purchase a bedside rail and a non-slip rug for the patient. The T67A crew returned to the residence, unboxed the items, and set them in place.
Since completing this project, all shifts have noticed a significant reduction in emergency calls for ground-level falls at the couple’s residence.
Great work to this crew for identifying an ongoing issue and going above and beyond to make their lives better and safer Thank you to T67A Act. Lt Hammes, D/E Sharp, probationary FF Planeta, and the North Pinellas Charity, Union President Smart!
The Palm Coast Fire Department expressed its gratitude to State Senator Travis Hutson and Representative Paul Renner for their unwavering support in the legislature at a recent event by the Palm Coast Regional Chamber of Commerce. Fire Chief Kyle Berryhill presented Representative Renner with a Command Helmet as a token of appreciation for his instrumental role in securing funding for the upcoming construction of Fire Station 26 in Seminole Woods. The helmet features a custom shield, a gesture commissioned by the Palm Coast Firefighters, symbolizing their deep appreciation. Throughout his tenure as Speaker of the Florida House, Speaker Renner has welcomed the Palm Coast Fire Department Honor Guard at the State Capitol on multiple occasions, including this past January during the State of the State Address, to present the colors.
The Palm Coast Fire Department is proud to announce the graduation of four Volunteer Firefighter Interns from esteemed programs at Daytona State College. Joseph Cruz, Connor Marin, and Mark Paraskiv have successfully completed the EMT Program at the School of Emergency Services, while Brayden Stuart graduated from the Fire Training Academy. These dedicated individuals have shown remarkable commitment and are poised to make significant contributions to the firefighting community. The Palm Coast Fire Department congratulates them on this important achievement and looks forward to their continued growth and service.
The Seminole County Fire Department (SCFD) recently partnered with HCA Healthcare to teach all 550 Keeth Elementary School students (K-5) lifesaving hands-only CPR.
The staff at Keeth, the Seminole County Fire Department, and HCA Florida Healthcare taught hands-only CPR as part of the “Keeth has Heart” initiative. This program aims to educate students about leading a healthy lifestyle, learning handsonly CPR, and participating in the Kids Heart Challenge jump rope fundraiser to support the American Heart Association. Students are also taught about cardiac arrests, what they can do to help, and how they can make a difference. It’s important to note that performing hands-only CPR can double a person’s chance of survival.
Most bystanders won’t attempt CPR because they are afraid. For sudden cardiac arrests, you don’t need a team of medical professionals around you to do something. Chest compressions are just needed to move the oxygen in the blood to the brain, and that’s what matters most before first responders arrive. Time is tissue, and seconds and minutes matter It’s essential that when a cardiac arrest happens, first responders have the public’s help before arrival to help ensure that chain of survival. Sudden Cardiac Arrest claims one life every two minutes.
On April 18, 2024, a mother of six was reunited with the Orange County Fire Rescue crews who saved her life by administering a blood transfusion at the scene of a car crash in which she was involved.
On the evening of April 9, 2024, 47-year-old Lori McMinn and her husband were on their way to get dinner in the Waterford Lakes area when they were involved ina serious collision. Captain Dyana Alexander was the first on the scene and quickly determined that Lori had sustained traumatic internal injuries and was in immediate need of a blood transfusion. By the time paramedics transported her to Orlando Regional Medical Center, she had already received her first unit of whole blood, significantly increasing her chances of survival.
Orange County Fire Rescue implemented the pre-hospital Whole Blood Program in March of 2024. This life-saving initiative enables EMS crews to provide blood transfusions to trauma patients in the field prior to hospital arrival.
The Palm Coast Fire Department is thrilled to announce thepromotion of Anthony Pedersen to the rank of Lieutenant. Pedersen, whobeganhis firefighting journey with the department in July 2018 after serving as a Volunteer Intern for 18 months, has demonstratedexceptional dedication andskill. A native of Palm Coast and a graduate of the Matanzas Class of 2015, Pedersen comes from a familylegacy of firefighting; his father, Erik, also served with the department. He acquired his Firefighter, EMT, and Paramedic Certifications fromDaytona State College. After being promoted to Driver Engineer in January 2022, Pedersen’s continued commitment has led to his recentpromotion to Lieutenant in April 2024.
When baby 396 was safely surrendered in Central Florida, the Safe Haven for Newborns staff began discussing a special celebration if and when baby 400 was to arrive.
Little did they know, it would only be days before they reached that milestone. During the first week in April baby 397, a little girl, was safely surrendered at a hospital in North Florida. Then only a week later baby 398, a little boy was also surrendered at a local hospital.
“That’s when we realized we had better step up our plans for baby 400,” said Nick Silverio, founder, and CEO of a Safe Haven for Newborns. “We weren’t sure how soon it would happen, but we knew it would.”
What they were not prepared for was unprecedented. Only two days later, a boy and two girls were directly turned over to hospital staff members in Central Florida.
At he time of this writing, only a few days later,a baby girl was left in a hospital in South Florida, bringing the current total to 402.
college, taken leadership roles in their communities, and one is attending medical school.”
Through its 24/7, multi-lingual helpline, the program has assisted thousands of mothers who were looking to surrender their baby or seeking resources so they could stay together.
“If we can meet the mother’s needs so she and her baby can remain together, that’s gold,” explained Silverio.
According to Silverio mothers calling the helpline have received everything from simple baby items to housing, counseling, medical care, and other support services.
A Safe Haven for Newborns also provides online training, community outreach, and education.
“It’s unbelievable,” said Silverio. “23 years ago, when we started this, we had no idea that we could save so many lives.”
A Safe Haven for Newborns was created in 2001, under the Gloria M. Silverio Foundation, named for Nick’s wife, who was killed in a car accident. Since then they have established themselves as the “go to” organization, in Florida, for supporting safe and legal infant surrenders under Florida’s Safe Haven statute.
Every baby is Precious
“We actually keep in touch with some of them,” he said excitedly. “Some have gone to
Silverio is also proud of their 23year relationship with Florida’s Fire service and Health Care systems. “It’s these partnerships that led to not only virtually eliminating infant abandonment in Florida but created a model for other programs to follow.A Safe Haven for Newborns is currently working to establish programs in several other states and countries.
“And all of this is done at no cost,” Silverio proudly pointed out. “Our funding comes from generous donors and State grants. Every penny goes directly into our programs, website, signage, decals, billboards, bus benches, and information packets.
Twenty three years ago, the program was established with the idea that if they could save just one child it would all be worth it. 401 babies later that dream is still a reality.
